MS HB1205

Public agencies are prohibited from requiring 501(c) organizations to provide personal information identifying members, supporters, volunteers, or donors.

Public agencies cannot release, publicize, or disclose personal information about 501(c) organization members and donors without express written permission from each identified person and the organization.

Public agencies are barred from requesting or requiring contractors to provide lists of 501(c) organizations they have financially or nonfinancially supported.

Personal information is exempt from disclosure under the Mississippi Public Records Act, except for lawful court warrants or court-ordered discovery in litigation with a compelling need demonstration and protective order.

Violations are enforceable through civil injunctive relief with courts authorized to award litigation costs and attorney fees to complainants, and knowing violations constitute a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days imprisonment or a $1,000 fine.