MS HB396

Increases the fee-in-lieu of ad valorem taxes on penitentiary lands leased for agricultural purposes from $9.00 to $13.00 per acre.

Requires the Department of Finance and Administration to collect the in-lieu fee and forward it to the appropriate tax collector, who disburses funds to county or municipal governing authorities on a pro rata basis.

Ensures school districts receive a pro rata share of fees based on the proportion of millage imposed for school purposes compared to total millage imposed by the levying authority.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.