Jackson Free Press

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Leaders of Mississippi government agencies are facing scrutiny as they request money for fiscal 2015, which begins July 1.

Executives are appearing before the 14-member Joint Legislative Budget Committee.

When annual budget hearings started Monday, the state Forestry Commission director was questioned about a new radio system the agency is buying. The state health officer was questioned about a request for money to renovate an office building, and a deputy treasurer was asked about handling of long-term debt.

A few agencies are requesting more than 20 percent increases in their budgets.

Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves, who chairs the Budget Committee, praised agencies that are requesting decreases or only modest increases.

Budget hearings are open to the public. They continue through Thursday at the Woolfolk office building, near the state Capitol.