Technology

HB 1380 protects Mississippi state/local governments and commercial entities (like businesses handling personal data) from lawsuits related to cybersecurity incidents if they follow specific, nationally recognized security standards. The bill requires these entities to adopt cybersecurity programs aligned with frameworks such as NIST, HIPAA, or ISO 27000, creating a strong legal defense against liability claims. It establishes that compliance with these standards is presumed valid unless a plaintiff proves otherwise with clear evidence. This law directly affects organizations managing sensitive data by reducing legal risks tied to data breaches while mandating adherence to established security practices. The protection applies to covered entities starting January 1, 2026.

SB 2510 amends Mississippi law to prohibit online, interactive, and computerized gambling games - including internet sweepstakes casinos - by expanding existing gambling definitions. It increases penalties for illegal online wagering operations from a misdemeanor to a felony, with fines up to $100,000 or 10 years in prison per violation. The bill authorizes seizure of assets, rights, and privileges used in violations and allows prosecutions to occur in the county of the offense or Hinds County. It directly affects operators of illegal online gaming platforms and businesses offering unlicensed digital gambling services.

SB 2151 requires all Mississippi public school districts, charter schools, agricultural high schools, and specific state schools (like the Mississippi School for the Arts) to adopt and submit by January 1, 2026, policies banning or limiting student cell phone use during class or under staff supervision. Schools failing to comply face daily funding deductions under the state’s funding formula. Exceptions allow phone use during emergencies, for medically necessary reasons (as certified by a healthcare provider), or per a student’s special education plan. The bill also specifies that cell phone policy violations alone cannot justify suspension or expulsion, except as a final disciplinary step.