MS HB1603

Appropriates $1,102,176 from the State General Fund and $9,754,296 from special funds for the Department of Marine Resources for fiscal year 2013 (July 1, 2012 - June 30, 2013)

Authorizes 126 permanent full-time positions and 15 time-limited full-time positions, with Marine Conservation Officers receiving up to $600 annually for uniform allowances

Allocates $9,787,443 from the Tidelands Fund for tidelands projects, including $1.1 million for Deer Island payment and $900,000 for bond repayment

Restricts the Secretary of State's Office from reserving more than 5% of tidelands funds for administrative purposes, excluding litigation costs

Prohibits use of appropriated funds to pay utilities (electricity, gas, cable, phone) for state-furnished employee housing, excluding dormitories