MS HB314

Increases civil penalties for willful and knowing violations of the Open Meetings Act from unspecified amounts to $500 for a first offense and $1,000 for subsequent offenses, imposed on individual members found in violation.

Changes the language in the Public Records Act from "shall be liable" to "may be liable" for denying access to public records, and clarifies that civil liability is capped at $100 per violation plus reasonable expenses.

Authorizes the Mississippi Ethics Commission to enforce both acts through complaint procedures, with public bodies receiving 14 days to respond before the Commission determines whether to dismiss or hold a hearing.

Allows parties to petition the chancery court in the public body's county to enforce or appeal any Ethics Commission order, with courts conducting de novo review.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.