MS HB189

I notice there's a discrepancy between the title provided and the actual bill content. The bill text is about public purchasing preferences, not school discipline. Here's an accurate summary of the actual bill content:

• Requires Mississippi-based businesses to receive preference in state public purchases and contracts if their bids are not more than 5% higher than non-Mississippi businesses and quality/service are substantially equal.

• Defines "Mississippi-based business" as a company with principal place of business in Mississippi, incorporated in Mississippi for at least one year, or employing at least 100 Mississippi workers.

• Extends similar 5% price preference to commodities grown, processed, or manufactured in Mississippi in competitive bidding situations.

• Requires Mississippi Development Authority and Department of Finance and Administration to jointly promote "Buy Mississippi First" policy through presentations and informational materials to businesses statewide explaining state purchasing procedures.

• Takes effect July 1, 2013.