MS HB1211

Transfers authority for administrative hearing procedures from the Commission on Marine Resources to the Department of Marine Resources, with the executive director making final decisions on violations and penalties up to $10,000 per violation

Establishes a revised hearing process where alleged violators can request an informal settlement conference with the executive director, followed by a formal hearing conducted by an Attorney General representative if no settlement is reached

Requires alleged violators to respond to complaints within 30 days or request a hearing within 15 days of the executive director's decision, with failure to respond constituting a waiver of hearing rights

Grants the department jurisdiction over enforcement of rules in Title 22 Administrative Code and statutes related to marine resources, coastal wetlands, and related provisions

Maintains judicial review rights in Harrison County Chancery Court for individuals aggrieved by the executive director's final decision, with appeals to the State Supreme Court available