MS SB2557

Authorizes the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning to enter into contracts and leases for solar installations at branch research stations operated by Mississippi State University and Alcorn State University for terms up to 30 years with two optional 10-year extensions.

Requires leases to be negotiated upon recommendation by the Director of the Agricultural and Forestry Experimental Station at Mississippi State University or the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences at Alcorn State University, approved and transmitted by the university president.

Directs all proceeds from solar leases to be deposited into special funds for the respective universities' use and benefit, with property reverting to the university at lease expiration.

Mandates the State of Mississippi retain all mineral rights to leased property and requires lessees to remove all improvements and restore property to its original condition upon lease termination or project abandonment.

Effective July 1, 2024.