MS HB97

Allows petitions to be filed in chancery court to revive, reform, modify, or correct expired or defective protective covenants in platted subdivisions.

Requires notice by publication in a newspaper once weekly for three consecutive weeks and posting at all subdivision entrances at least 30 days before the hearing; municipalities within whose boundaries the subdivision lies must be made parties to the petition.

Grants the chancellor authority to hear evidence, impose new protective covenants consistent with current subdivision development characteristics, and create homeowners' associations where none exist with the power to assess fees and enforce covenants.

Authorizes the chancellor to direct preparation of articles of incorporation and bylaws for homeowners' associations and to allow associations to recover attorney's fees and costs in enforcement actions.

Takes effect July 1, 2014.