Technology

SB 2835 creates the Mississippi Emergency Communications Authority within the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency to oversee emergency communications. It requires all emergency communications districts (ECDs) to adopt a next-generation 911 (NG911) system plan by December 31, 2030, and establishes a fund to collect fees from service providers on emergency communications. The authority will manage these fees, set standards for NG911 systems, audit charges, and require annual financial reports from ECDs. The bill also repeals outdated sections of law related to emergency telephone services.

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.

HB 1239 revises Mississippi's tax exemption rules for data center enterprises, targeting businesses investing at least $500 million and creating 50+ new jobs paying 125% of the state average wage. It requires detailed applications to the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) outlining project plans, job creation timelines, and annual compliance documentation. Approved businesses receive a 10-year exemption from specified state taxes (sales, use, franchise, and electricity taxes), but must maintain performance commitments or face forfeiture after a 60-day remedy period for noncompliance. The bill explicitly excludes digital asset mining operations from eligibility and sets an expiration date of June 30, 2025.