SB 2399 removes a prohibition preventing Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) from providing security at two specific locations: the Mississippi Department of Agriculture building at 121 North Jefferson Street and the New Farmers Market Building at High and Jefferson Streets in Jackson. The bill authorizes DPS to post security personnel, conduct regular vehicle patrols, and respond to security system alarms at these properties. This change directly affects the Department of Agriculture's operations at these facilities by enabling DPS to provide security services there. The amendment updates existing law to permit these security measures, which were previously restricted.
SB 2425 authorizes Mississippi state agencies to enter formal agreements with U.S. military branches to provide installation-support services (like housing, utilities, or administrative assistance) to military bases located in the state. This bill creates a legal framework for state entities to collaborate with the military under federal law, specifically referencing the National Defense Authorization Act. It directly affects state agencies responsible for such services and military installations operating within Mississippi, without altering existing service requirements or funding mechanisms.
SB 2422 allows Mississippi's Adjutant General to transfer state-owned property to counties, cities, or other local governments for exclusive use by a nonprofit organization that benefits the Mississippi Military Department or veterans. This bill amends existing law to explicitly permit such property transfers when they serve the best interests of military or veteran programs. The key provision expands the Adjutant General's authority to convey real property to local entities for nonprofit use, rather than restricting transfers to government agencies or educational institutions. The change would directly affect local governments, nonprofits serving veterans, and the state's military operations. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026.
SB 2415 updates Mississippi's environmental permit processes. It allows hearings for hazardous waste and landfill permits to occur in Hinds County, locally, or online instead of requiring statewide hearings. The bill removes the requirement for certified mail notices about permit expirations and eliminates permit application fees. These changes apply directly to the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), permit applicants, and the public participating in hearings.
HB 1332 requires Mississippi's Insurance Commissioner to contract only with testing services that follow National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) standards when administering insurance producer license exams. This directly affects insurance producers seeking licenses in Mississippi and the testing companies contracted to administer exams. The bill mandates that any contracted testing service must develop, administer, and score exams according to NAIC's established standards and best practices. The law takes effect on July 1, 2026.
SB 2258 establishes the Mississippi-Ireland Trade Commission to strengthen economic ties between Mississippi and Ireland. The commission, composed of 10 appointed members (including state officials and trade experts with Irish connections), will advance bilateral trade, promote business/academic exchanges, and encourage mutual investment. It can raise funds through solicitation, grants, and donations to carry out these goals. The bill directly affects Mississippi businesses seeking Irish market opportunities and Irish entities interested in Mississippi trade partnerships, effective March 17, 2026.
SB 2530 increases the maximum principal amount for perpetual care cemetery trust funds from $50,000 to $75,000 and allows cemeteries to hold short-term certificates of deposit (maturing in one year or less) instead of the current 30-day limit. This directly affects Mississippi cemeteries that maintain perpetual care funds, giving them more flexibility in managing these funds while keeping them FDIC-insured. The bill requires certificates to state "For Perpetual Care," automatically renew with interest, and be filed with the Secretary of State. It aims to simplify fund management for cemeteries without altering the requirement that only trust income funds cemetery maintenance. The change takes effect July 1, 2026.
HB 1402 designates a one-mile segment of Mississippi Highway 537 in Yazoo County as the "Colonel Donnell Berry Memorial Highway" to honor Colonel Donnell Berry. The Mississippi Department of Transportation will install and maintain signage along this highway segment. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2026. This is a commemorative designation with no policy or funding changes.
HB 1520 authorizes Mississippi's Department of Archives and History to donate and transfer ownership of the Dancing Rabbit Creek Treaty property to the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (MBCI). The 28.3-acre property, historically significant to the MBCI, is described in the bill as being located in Noxubee County. The transfer would formally transfer title from the state to the tribe, with the bill taking effect on July 1, 2026. This is a procedural land transfer bill, not a new policy.
SB 2476 authorizes the Mississippi Board of Pharmacy to create an alternative-to-discipline program for pharmacists (licensees) impaired due to substance abuse or mental health conditions. The program requires voluntary participation before disciplinary hearings, allows the board to require licensees to cover program costs (including treatment), and mandates strict confidentiality for all records. This policy change directly affects pharmacists facing impairment-related disciplinary actions, offering a treatment-focused alternative to traditional penalties. The bill specifies that program details must be established via board rules and ensures all participant information remains exempt from public disclosure.
HB 1713 establishes a state-sponsored life insurance program for Mississippi National Guard members, facilitated by the Mississippi Military Department and sponsored by the Adjutant General. The bill enables voluntary enrollment in coverage provided through the National Guard Association of Mississippi (NGAMS), allowing members to learn about, enroll in, or adjust their benefits during training events. It authorizes program representatives to conduct briefings and coordinates premium payments with federal systems (DFAS) for members who choose to participate. The program does not create new insurance but makes existing coverage accessible, with participation strictly optional for all National Guard members.
HB 1137 revises Mississippi's requirements for becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA). It mandates that new applicants must have either a postgraduate accounting degree, a bachelor's degree with 150+ semester hours including accounting coursework, or a bachelor's degree with an accounting concentration. Additionally, applicants need 1-2 years of verified professional experience in accounting, auditing, tax, or related fields, depending on their education level. The bill also extends these same education and experience standards to out-of-state CPAs seeking to practice in Mississippi, replacing previous exemptions. This directly affects individuals pursuing CPA licensure in Mississippi or moving from another state to practice there.
