MS HB1306

Grants preference to resident bidders in public contracts when bids are substantially equal in quality and service but differ only in price, if resident bid prices do not exceed nonresident bids by more than 2 percent.

Applies reciprocal preference rules: nonresident bidders from states with resident preference laws receive Mississippi contracts only on the same basis their home states award contracts to Mississippi residents.

Requires nonresident contractors to attach a copy of their home state's current law regarding treatment of nonresident bidders to their bids.

Establishes criminal penalties effective July 1, 2014 for intentional, willful, and knowing violations of public contract provisions: fines of $500-$1,000 and/or up to 6 months jail time, plus removal from office.

Applies preference rules to state purchases of commodities grown, processed or manufactured in Mississippi, and to county board of supervisors purchases of supplies and equipment.