MS HB517

Extends the repeal date of Section 21-27-77, Mississippi Code of 1972 from July 1, 2022 to July 1, 2025, allowing municipalities with populations of 150,000 or more to continue operating programs addressing disputed and delinquent water and sewer accounts.

Permits municipalities to compromise on doubtful claims only in cases of municipal error (equipment, process, or billing failure) or unforeseen circumstances (damage, extreme weather, declared disasters) where customers did not receive service benefits.

Allows municipalities to establish installment payment agreements for uncollectible accounts where customers have limited ability to pay, with remaining balances reclassified as uncollectible debt rather than forgiven.

Requires participating utilities to submit annual reports by January 1, 2022 detailing revenue collection, number of accounts adjudged uncollectible, installment plan participation, and the program's effect on revenue collection.

Authorizes the Mississippi Public Utilities Staff to enter professional services contracts to support the program, with participating municipalities reimbursing costs not to exceed $200,000 over the program's duration.