MS HB1477

Authorizes county boards of supervisors to maintain and repair abandoned public or private nonprofit cemeteries located outside municipal boundaries, with expenses paid from available county funds.

Authorizes municipal governing authorities to maintain and repair abandoned public or private nonprofit cemeteries located within municipal corporate boundaries, with expenses paid from available municipal funds.

Defines "abandoned cemetery" as one showing signs of neglect (unchecked vegetation growth, vandalism, disintegration of markers) where no legally responsible and financially capable person can be found for upkeep.

Excludes family burial grounds and for-profit perpetual care cemeteries subject to Sections 41-43-31 through 41-43-57 from the definition of covered cemeteries.

Effective date: July 1, 2019.