MS SB2946

Amends Section 49-27-15 of Mississippi Code to allow the department to schedule hearings on coastal wetlands applications, with mandatory hearings if requested by the applicant, a political subdivision, agency, or 10 persons within the objection filing period.

Allows oral and written comments to be presented at hearings, which must be held within 20 days after the objection deadline unless all parties agree to a later date.

Requires applicants to pay the actual costs of providing public notice and publication fees for the hearing.

Maintains existing notice requirements including weekly publication for at least three consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the affected county, with final notice no more than seven days before the objection deadline.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.