MS HB556

Authorizes local school boards to enter into long-term supply agreements (up to 10 years) for the sale of forest products including wood waste, wood fiber, pulpwood, and biomass from sixteenth section lands.

Permits supply agreements to be structured as either public contracts (after published notice) or private contracts (with Mississippi Forestry Commission appraisal and minimum value approval).

Modifies agricultural land leasing provisions to allow leases up to 10 years (previously 5 years for most agricultural lands) and requires lease terms to include best farm management practices established by the Secretary of State in consultation with federal agencies and Mississippi State University Extension Service.

Clarifies that supply agreements and lease modifications require approval from the Mississippi Forestry Commission and Secretary of State.

Takes effect July 1, 2021.