MS SB2475

Creates Section 73-34-14 requiring all applicants for real estate appraiser licenses to undergo fingerprint-based criminal history records checks through Mississippi and Federal Bureau of Investigation databases starting January 1, 2015.

Denies licensure to applicants with appraiser licenses revoked within five years prior, those convicted of felonies within five years (or any felony involving fraud, dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering), or those lacking character and fitness to command community confidence.

Increases classroom hour requirements for licensed certified residential appraisers from 105 to 200 hours and for licensed certified general appraisers from 165 to 300 hours.

Establishes bachelor's degree requirement for applicants seeking licensure on or after January 1, 2015 (associates degree or higher acceptable for prior applicants).

Increases qualifying experience requirements to 2,500 hours over 24 months for residential appraisers and 3,000 hours over 30 months for general appraisers, with 1,500 hours in nonresidential work for general appraisers.

Requires criminal history records checks for license renewal applicants starting January 1, 2015.