MS HB740

Prohibits possession of open alcoholic beverage, light wine, or beer containers and consumption of these beverages within the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle on public roads, highways, or rights-of-way in Mississippi.

Defines "open container" as any glass, metal, plastic, or other container with alcoholic beverage that has been opened, punctured, or cut, or designed to be consumed without opening.

Establishes civil penalty of $100 to $200 for violations.

Creates exceptions allowing open containers in locked glove compartments, behind the last upright seat in vehicles without trunks, in non-passenger areas, in house trailers or coaches, and for passengers in hired vehicles driven by commercial operators.

Preempts any local ordinances imposing more stringent restrictions on open containers in vehicles; effective July 1, 2016.