MS SB2871

Extends the automatic repeal date of Section 21-27-77, Mississippi Code of 1972, from July 1, 2023 to July 1, 2027, allowing municipalities with populations of 150,000 or more to continue operating delinquent water and sewer account resolution programs.

Authorizes municipalities to compromise disputed or delinquent water accounts in cases of municipal error (equipment failure, billing failure) or unforeseen circumstances (extreme weather, declared disasters) where customers did not receive service benefits.

Permits municipalities to establish installment payment agreements for uncollectible accounts, allowing customers to pay a prescribed portion while moving remaining balances to a special accounting category for uncollectible or inactive accounts without forgiving the debt.

Requires municipalities participating in the program to submit annual reports by January 1, 2022, detailing revenue collection, uncollectible accounts, installment plan participation, and plans to reduce future billing and service failures.

Limits reimbursement to the Mississippi Public Utilities Staff for professional services contracts to $200,000 over the duration of the program.