MS SB2403

Requires mandatory mediation before any civil action proceeds between political subdivisions, with the court holding proceedings in abeyance and staying discovery pending mediation.

Court must either allow parties to mutually select a mediator or appoint one with demonstrable experience in the subject matter within 15 days of filing.

Mediator must begin mediation within 30 days of appointment and may require parties to provide information about the dispute and negotiate for resolution.

Mediator must file a report within 180 days of appointment (extendable by court for good cause); if mediation succeeds, judgment shall be entered consistent with the report; if unsuccessful, complaint cannot proceed further until report is filed.

Mediation costs shall be divided equally among the parties as determined by the court; act takes effect July 1, 2019.