MS SB2648

Amends oyster cultivation lease procedures to require the Department of Marine Resources to establish a qualification system prioritizing applicants based on experience in oyster reef development, cultivation and harvesting, FDA registration status, acreage sought, and financial ability to perform cultivation requirements.

Authorizes the department to reconfigure lease areas from those requested by applicants to promote maximum resource utilization, with applicants retaining the right to refuse reconfigured areas and withdraw their application for a full refund of application fees.

Establishes the "Oyster Production Preserve Account" within the Seafood Fund to receive revenues from oyster leasing, licensing, sack fees, and other sources dedicated to oyster production and propagation, with required annual reporting to the Legislature.

Increases criminal penalties for violating oyster bottom lease program provisions: first offense fine of $5,000 and one-year license revocation; second offense fine of $10,000 and two-year revocation; third offense fine of $100,000 and permanent license revocation.

Removes the United States Army Corps of Engineers from the Lower Pearl River Restoration Project agreement and repeals the special license tag for Mississippi seafood industry supporters.