MS HB606

Establishes the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund as a special fund in the State Treasury to provide grants to counties, municipalities, state agencies, and nonprofit organizations for outdoor recreation and conservation projects.

Creates a Board of Trustees consisting of seven voting members (four appointed by Governor, three by Lieutenant Governor) from forestry, conservation, agriculture, business, marine resources, hunting or fishing sectors, plus nine ex officio nonvoting members from state agencies and legislative committees.

Authorizes fund use for state park improvements, acquisition and improvement of parks and trails, restoration of public waters and lands, enhancement of private agricultural and forest lands, wetlands restoration, and acquisition of critical conservation areas (with restrictions on land purchases until July 1, 2024).

Requires annual independent audits of all expenditures, submission of approved project lists to legislative leadership, and notification to legislators before fund distribution; limits board and administrative expenses to two percent of annual fund amounts.

Allows unexpended funds to remain in the special fund without lapsing, except unobligated amounts exceeding $20,000,000 annually must revert to the General Fund.