MS HB1396

Prohibits state agencies and community/junior colleges from expending public funds to hire contract lobbyists, making any such contracts void and unenforceable.

Makes public employees who authorize such expenditures subject to termination, but exempts employees whose lobbying is part of their official duties and properly reported.

Adds definitions to lobbying law including "state agency," "community or junior college," "public funds," and "contract lobbying" to clarify the scope of the prohibition.

Removes "legislative advocacy services" from the types of contracts subject to Public Procurement Review Board oversight.

Takes effect July 1, 2023.