MS HB1281

Amends Section 49-15-27 to clarify the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources' authority to lease bottomland for oyster growing and harvesting, specifying that areas not designated as state-owned reefs or tonging reefs may be leased.

Reduces the maximum acreage that individuals, firms, or corporations may lease from 3,500 acres to 1,000 acres.

Lowers the minimum ground rental rate from $5.00 per acre to $2.00 per acre, while maintaining the maximum of $20.00 per acre.

Repeals Section 49-15-40.1, which established a pilot program for bottomland leasing for oyster production, and removes language from Section 49-15-36 that authorized the pilot program.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.