HB 1611 Summary

• Authorizes county boards of supervisors and municipal governing authorities to issue emergency licenses and registrations to out-of-state builders and specialty contractors during declared states of emergency in affected areas.

• Requires applicants to submit verification of valid home-state licensure by examination or grandfathered license, national criminal background report (current within 14 days), appropriate bonding ($15,000 for home builders, $5,000 for specialty contractors), and a $100 fee.

• Limits emergency licenses to one specific event with project valuations capped at $100,000 for home builders and $35,000 for specialty contractors, valid only within the emergency declaration area and scope of home-state licensure.

• Emergency licenses remain valid for the duration of the emergency declaration or as extended by local authorities, with criminal disqualifications including misdemeanors from 24 months prior or felonies from 15 years prior.

• Amends Sections 19-5-9, 21-19-25, and 73-59-7 of Mississippi Code to incorporate emergency licensing provisions and becomes effective July 1, 2024.