MS HB641

Creates the Open Burning Laws Study Committee composed of eight members representing the Department of Environmental Quality, State Fire Marshal's office, State Health Officer, State Forester, Mississippi Fire Chief's Association, Mississippi Municipal League, Mississippi Association of Supervisors, and Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.

Committee members serve without compensation and the committee operates without state appropriations or funds.

First meeting must occur by June 1, 2012, with the Executive Director of the Department of Environmental Quality serving as temporary chairman until the committee elects a permanent chairman and vice chairman.

Committee must conduct a comprehensive study of state open burning laws and regulations, with specific focus on residential open burning of leaves and other vegetative waste generated onsite by homeowners.

Committee must submit findings and recommendations to the House Conservation and Water Resources Committee by December 1, 2012, for consideration during the 2013 Regular Session.