MS HB698

Requires municipal water, wastewater, and sewer rates to be just, reasonable, and based on actual cost to operate and maintain systems, with rates applied equitably and consistently within each user classification.

Prohibits municipalities from charging users less than the cost incurred to provide services and prevents discriminatory rate-setting among members of the same user classification.

Limits user billing calculations to actual volumetric usage plus reasonable fees for capital expenses, system operation, maintenance, and debt service, with exceptions for municipalities already using flat-fee billing as of the bill's passage.

Requires municipalities to post notice of any rate changes on user bills at least one month before the effective date and on their online platforms if available.

Allows alternative billing methods only through incentive contracts for commercial or industrial operations as part of location, expansion, or maintenance benefits, provided such rates remain equitable and non-discriminatory.