Senate Bill 2071 Summary

• Changes the pecan harvesting season from October 1 - December 31 to September 1 - January 31
• Reclassifies violations of the pecan harvesting law from misdemeanor offenses to larceny charges, subject to petty larceny or grand larceny penalties under Mississippi Code sections 97-17-43 and 97-17-41
• Requires courts to order restitution to pecan tree owners at the current replacement value for any severed or damaged pecans, in addition to any fines or imprisonment imposed
• Maintains existing provisions allowing highway department employees and municipal workers to maintain road rights-of-way, and prohibiting pecan harvesting from interstate highways
• Takes effect July 1, 2022