MS SB2817

Requires applicants seeking new or expanded permits for "affecting facilities" (such as power plants, incinerators, landfills, and major air pollution sources) located in environmental justice communities to file and obtain approval of a meaningful public participation plan before submitting permit applications.

Defines environmental justice communities as census block groups where at least 30% of the population has incomes 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 and requires clear disclosure of potential environmental and health impacts.

Prohibits the Department of Environmental Quality from acting on permit applications for at least 60 days after the informal public meeting to allow time for public input.

Allows municipalities and developers to negotiate community environmental benefit agreements to mitigate impacts, including funding for environmental education, pollution reduction, trails, parks, and other community benefits.