MS SB2270

Requires mandatory mediation before any civil action by one political subdivision against another can proceed in court.

Court must hold proceedings in abeyance and stay discovery within 15 days of filing; parties may jointly select a mediator or court appoints one with subject matter expertise.

Mediator must begin mediation within 30 days of appointment and has authority to request information from parties and negotiate for dispute resolution.

Mediator must file report within 180 days of appointment (extendable for good cause); successful mediation results in judgment consistent with mediator's report; unsuccessful mediation allows complaint to proceed only after report is filed.

Mediation costs divided equally among the parties as determined by the court; effective July 1, 2020.