MS HB1566

Creates new code section 69-1-119 authorizing the Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce to provide technical guidance and outreach to landowners, farmers, and producers regarding nuisance wildlife management on private agricultural and forestry lands, and to accept grants or special funds for this purpose.

Increases Agricultural and Livestock Theft Bureau investigators from nine (9) to twelve (12) positions and authorizes the bureau to conduct law enforcement training and assist other agencies in disaster response.

Exempts Agricultural and Livestock Theft Bureau vehicles from Bureau of Fleet Management requirements for undercover operations when compliance could jeopardize officer safety.

Abolishes the Mississippi Fair Commission effective July 1, 2020, and transfers all powers, duties, property, contracts, and funds to the Department of Agriculture and Commerce; converts the commission into an advisory council to provide guidance to the department.

Provides the Department of Agriculture and Commerce authority over State Fairgrounds operations, including appointment of a director, acceptance of naming rights donations, special fund management, and revenue bond issuance for improvements; repeals these changes on July 1, 2022.