MS SB2495

Creates the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund in the State Treasury to provide grants to counties, municipalities, and state agencies for wildlife conservation, natural areas, and outdoor recreation activities.

Establishes a 12-member Board of Trustees composed of the Executive Director of the Department of Tourism, 3 members appointed by the Governor, 2 members appointed by the Lieutenant Governor, and 2 ex officio nonvoting members from Marine Resources and Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks departments.

Authorizes fund use for state park improvements, county and municipal park and trail acquisition, public water and land access restoration, and critical area acquisition for water quality, wildlife, hunting/fishing, military installation buffering, or outdoor recreation.

Requires independent audits for appropriations up to $750,000 and reimbursement-only disbursement for amounts exceeding $750,000; board may use up to 1% of fund monies for operational expenses.

Board must submit annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and relevant committee chairs; the fund and board sunset on June 30, 2025.