MS HB297

Requires textbook publishers to disclose in writing all textbook modifications from the last 10 years, prices for textbooks and supplemental materials, and total prices for bundled packages when offering products to faculty at Mississippi public colleges and universities.

Mandates that faculty consider least costly textbook practices consistent with educational quality, work with bookstores on ordering processes, disclose costs to students, and provide written statements to college presidents listing required and recommended materials and earliest usable editions.

Requires bundled textbooks be available for separate purchase and mandates equal quantities of bundled and unbundled textbooks be ordered unless faculty and bookstore determine disproportionate need exists.

Establishes pilot textbook rental programs at individual campuses with student government approval, requiring rental costs not exceed 33% of average annual retail textbook costs and programs be self-sustaining after initial start-up funding.

Directs bookstores to post textbook listings with ISBNs at student registration and adopt affordable pricing policies; requires colleges distributing financial aid to establish procedures providing credit for textbook purchases at any bookstore.