MS HB1160

Amends Mississippi Code Section 39-27-1 to authorize the Mississippi Blues Commission to raise and expend grant funds to provide assistance to blues musicians in need.

Establishes a special fund in the State Treasury to receive and maintain donations and grants for the commission, with unexpended amounts carrying over year to year rather than lapsing to the General Fund.

Commission composition includes representatives from state tourism, archives, arts, educational television, universities, the B.B. King Museum, USDA Rural Development, legislature members, and gubernatorial appointees with blues expertise.

Commission responsibilities include developing blues marketing and tourism plans, identifying and preserving blues historic sites, establishing a statewide "Blues Trail," and coordinating with state cultural and educational institutions.

Takes effect July 1, 2010.