MS HB159

Establishes a statutory order of abatement for estate property distribution: undisposed property, residuary bequests and devises, general bequests and devises, then specific bequests and devises.

Allows testators to specify a different abatement order in their will if it better reflects their intent, and permits courts to override the statutory order to preserve the testator's purpose.

Grants devisees and legatees whose property is abated the right to seek contribution from other interests in the same or higher classification on a pro rata basis.

Amends Mississippi Code Sections 91-7-91, 91-7-191, 91-7-195, 91-7-199, 91-7-261, and 91-7-271 to eliminate preference between real and personal property in estate settlement and to conform language to the new abatement provisions.

Effective date: July 1, 2015.