MS HB1060

Creates the Mississippi Gospel Music Commission to develop a marketing plan for gospel music and culture as an economic development tool, with a report due to the Governor and Legislature before the 2018 Regular Session.

Commission shall consist of representatives from the Division of Tourism, Department of Archives and History, Mississippi Arts Commission, Educational Television Authority, University of Mississippi's Center for the Study of Southern Culture, and other state agencies, plus legislative and gubernatorial appointees.

Directs the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority to establish a statewide "Gospel Music Trail" infrastructure offering structured tours of gospel music historical sites and performance venues.

Authorizes the Division of Tourism to designate specific sites and purchase markers for the "Mississippi Gospel Music Trail," with the Mississippi Department of Transportation responsible for erecting and maintaining the markers.

Commission may accept grants and private donations from federal, state, public, and private entities, with funds deposited into a special state treasury account for carrying out commission responsibilities.