Mississippi Bills

Mississippi's HB 671 renounces state prohibition as policy, allowing the legal manufacture, sale, distribution, and transportation of alcoholic beverages statewide effective January 1, 2027, except in counties that vote to maintain prohibition via election after that date. It revises how often counties can hold such elections and clarifies that possessing alcohol becomes lawful throughout the state as of January 1, 2021, with exceptions for selling without authorization. The bill amends multiple sections to align with this shift, including updating definitions of "alcoholic beverage" and establishing new rules for delivery services through package retailers. These changes aim to modernize Mississippi's alcohol laws while preserving local option for prohibition via voter referendums.

HB 1599 extends the expiration date of a 2% tax on prepared food and beverages sold in Brandon, Mississippi restaurants and bars from July 1, 2028, to July 1, 2032. This bill does not change the tax rate or its purpose - it maintains the existing 2% tax that funds tourism, parks, and recreation initiatives. The tax applies to restaurants and bars within Brandon's city limits (excluding certain facilities like schools or convenience stores), with proceeds required to be kept in a separate special fund. The extension ensures Brandon’s city government can continue collecting this revenue for designated purposes beyond the original 2028 deadline.