MS SB2726

Amends the Mississippi Gulf Coast Region Utility Act to emphasize voluntary coordination and consolidation of water, wastewater, and storm water services among six counties: George, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Pearl River, and Stone.

Limits each county utility authority's service area for direct service provision to areas defined by their certificate of public convenience and necessity from the Mississippi Public Service Commission, while allowing broader planning and coordination roles countywide.

Clarifies county utility authorities' powers to function as forums for voluntary cooperation among service providers, develop countywide standards, and assist in planning to meet service needs cost-effectively and environmentally responsibly.

Restricts county utility authorities' power of eminent domain so it cannot be exercised on any certificated areas that existed before passage of this act.

Allows certificates of public convenience and necessity held by municipalities, public agencies, districts, and utilities to be transferred to county authorities through a joint petition process approved by the Mississippi Public Service Commission if in the public interest.