MS HB527

Requires textbook publishers to disclose in writing all textbook modifications from the past 10 years, prices of all textbooks and supplemental materials, and total prices of bundled packages when offering materials to Mississippi public colleges and universities.

Mandates faculty members consider least costly textbook practices, use materials for longer periods when not outdated, work with bookstores on ordering processes, and provide written statements to university presidents listing required and recommended textbooks with earliest usable editions.

Requires bundled textbooks to also be available for separate purchase in equal quantities, and mandates bookstores provide textbook listings with ISBN numbers at student registration available online or in-store.

Authorizes pilot textbook rental programs at individual campuses with student government approval, requiring rental costs not exceed 33% of average retail purchase costs and programs must be self-sustaining after initial startup funding.

Directs participating campuses to report pilot program results to their governing board for minimum of four years, with findings reported to House and Senate Universities and Colleges Committees after four years.