MS HB977

Revises the State Veterans Affairs Board composition from one member per congressional district (based on 1992 districts) plus two at-large members to one member per current congressional district (four districts per Section 23-15-1037) plus three at-large members, effective July 1, 2024.

Maintains the seven-member board size and requires gubernatorial appointment with Senate advice and consent.

Members must be honorably discharged or released veterans and all appointments made from July 1, 2024 forward shall serve five-year terms.

Provides transition provision allowing members serving before July 1, 2024 to continue serving through the end of their existing terms.

Vacancies are filled by gubernatorial appointment with Senate consent from either the appropriate congressional district or state at large position, for the remainder of the unexpired term.