MS HB349

Deletes the repealer on Mississippi Code Section 69-10-5, making permanent the assessment on rice grown in Mississippi that was previously set to expire.

Maintains the rice assessment rate of three cents per bushel, imposed since July 1, 1991.

Requires the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce to collect assessments from rice purchasers at the first point of sale and deposit proceeds into the Mississippi Rice Promotion Fund.

Authorizes the department to retain up to 3.5 percent of collected funds for administrative costs, with budget and withholding amounts subject to approval by the Mississippi Rice Promotion Board.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.