MS SB2676

Requires applicants seeking permits for new or expanded "affecting facilities" (power plants, incinerators, landfills, sewage treatment plants, and other major polluters) in low-income communities to submit a meaningful public participation plan for Department of Environmental Quality approval before filing permit applications.

Defines "environmental justice community" as a census block group where 30% or more of the population has income below 200% of the federal poverty level.

Mandates applicants hold informal public meetings in affected communities with at least 10 days' notice published in local newspapers, post notices in English and other languages spoken by 20% or more of nearby residents, and provide clear information about potential environmental and health impacts.

Prohibits the Department of Environmental Quality from acting on permits for at least 60 days after the informal public meeting and allows municipalities to negotiate community environmental benefit agreements for on-site and off-site mitigation improvements.

Restricts placement of more than 1,000 cubic yards of asbestos-containing soil near residential property to heights above 4 feet without approval by a two-thirds majority of the municipal legislative body.