MS SB2059

Prohibits the sale, farming, cultivation, incubation, or inducement to spawn of Atlantic salmon or genetically engineered fish that may contact or transmit contagious diseases to native fish in Mississippi.

Defines "genetically engineered" as organisms with genetic structures altered through recombinant DNA or RNA techniques or introduction of exogenous genetic material incorporated into the genome.

Exempts dead fish imported for human consumption, fish in pet food or fertilizer, triploid fish, hybrid fish, shellfish, aquarium fish, and fish used for scientific research in closed systems.

Requires the Department of Agriculture and Commerce to enforce compliance with the act through permit oversight under Section 79-22-9.

Becomes effective July 1, 2017, with exemptions for Atlantic salmon already present in the state before that date.