MS HB80

Amends Section 13-1-23 to create the "Zeb Hughes Law," establishing a presumption of death for missing persons who have undergone a catastrophic event exposing them to imminent peril, based on uncontradicted sworn testimony and evidence.

Presumes death occurred at the time of the catastrophic event when law enforcement, first responders, eyewitnesses, and other persons provide clear and convincing evidence that the missing person died in the event.

Requires hearings to review catastrophic event evidence be held no less than two (2) years after the event, with notice provided to the coroner, district attorney, and sheriff within thirty (30) days.

Creates Section 41-57-8 requiring the State Registrar of Vital Statistics to issue a death certificate upon receipt of a proper court order, including the decedent's name, date and place of death, address, marital status, and cause of death information.

Death certificates issued under this law must be marked "presumptive" and identify the court order on which they are based; effective July 1, 2024.