MS HB1111

Amends Section 27-39-203, Mississippi Code of 1972, to reduce advertising requirements for municipalities with populations under 1,500 inhabitants according to the last federal census.

Municipalities with fewer than 1,500 residents may post notice of public hearings on budgets and tax levies in three public places instead of publishing advertisements in newspapers, unless proposed tax levies exceed the current fiscal year's certified tax rate.

If proposed tax levies exceed the current fiscal year's certified tax rate, even small municipalities must follow standard advertising procedures requiring one-fourth page newspaper advertisements in 18-point type for two consecutive weeks.

Public hearings remain open to the public in all cases, and citizens retain the right to present oral testimony within reasonable time limits.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.