MS SB2770

Creates the Mississippi Private Investigation Regulatory Act requiring all persons acting as private investigators to obtain a license from the newly established Mississippi Private Investigation Board.

Establishes a nine-member board appointed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Speaker of the House, Attorney General, Mississippi State Bar Association, and Mississippi Private Investigators Association; members must have five years of investigative experience and meet specified qualifications.

Sets licensing requirements including minimum age of 21, passage of a board-administered examination twice annually, criminal background check, and prohibition on convictions for felonies or crimes of moral turpitude; grandfathers in persons already operating as private investigators before the act's effective date.

Provides for two-year renewable licenses with associated fees, continuing education requirements of eight hours annually, and disciplinary actions including suspension, revocation, or civil penalties up to $2,000 for violations.

Exempts certain professions and entities from licensing requirements, including attorneys, employees of businesses not primarily engaged in private investigation, consumer reporting agencies, and certified public accountants; takes effect July 1, 2016.