MS HB1739

Increases the maximum ad valorem tax millage rate for fire protection districts in a specific Mississippi county (bordering the Mississippi River, with legal gaming, and where U.S. Highway 61 intersects Highway 4) from 5 mills to 8 mills annually.

Tax applies to taxable real and personal property within the fire protection district, excluding utilities as defined in Section 77-3-3(d)(i) and (iii).

Requires board of supervisors to adopt a resolution declaring intent before levying the tax or any increase, with publication for three consecutive weeks in a county newspaper and posting at three public places for 21 days.

Allows qualified electors (more than 20%) to petition for an election within 21 days; tax levy requires majority voter approval if election is held.

Effective July 1, 2016.