MS HB1342

Creates Mississippi Code Section 31-5-42 to void indemnification clauses in engineering service contracts that require contractors to defend or indemnify public entities for liability exceeding the contractor's degree of fault.

Applies to public and private contracts for engineering services related to construction, alteration, repair, or maintenance of buildings, structures, bridges, utilities, and related work.

Declares such excessive indemnity clauses void as against public policy and unenforceable, with the provision automatically incorporated into all public entity contracts and solicitation documents.

Exempts construction bonds and insurance contracts from the requirements of this section.

Takes effect July 1, 2011 and is subject to repeal on June 30, 2011 (sunset provision).