MS SB2418

Authorizes agricultural marketing cooperatives to buy, sell, and deal in agricultural products of nonmembers up to an amount not exceeding the value of products handled for members.

Removes the 99-year limit on association duration, allowing associations to exist in perpetuity if desired.

Revises amendment procedures to allow adoption by a majority of members present at a properly noticed meeting, with provisions for a recessed meeting if initial attendance is insufficient, rather than requiring majority of all members.

Requires directors to elect a chief operating officer in addition to existing officers (chairman/president, vice presidents, secretary, and treasurer).

Clarifies that membership fees are optional and increases filing fees for articles of association and amendments from $20/$10 to a flat $50 fee.

Establishes that general nonprofit corporation laws apply to agricultural marketing associations except where they conflict with the Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Act.