MS HB198

Revises regulations for state agency wireless communication devices and service plans, requiring agency heads to certify in writing the business need before issuing devices with service plans to officers or employees

Prohibits state agencies from reimbursing employees for personal wireless devices or service plans, and bans personal use of state-issued devices except for emergencies or incidental use

Removes previous exemptions for University of Mississippi Medical Center, Mississippi State University Extension Service, and related agricultural and veterinary research units

Requires officers or employees to have documented valid business need before being issued more than one wireless device with a service plan, maintained for auditing purposes

Mandates state agencies purchase the lowest cost devices and minimum number of service plans necessary, with the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services selecting approved vendors through lowest and best bid proposals