HB 1102 Summary

• Brings forward Mississippi Code sections related to marine resources, oyster leasing, oil/gas mineral development, and seafood regulation for possible amendment during the 2025 regular session.

• Establishes oyster lease terms including 15-year initial periods with renewal rights, $3.00 annual per-acre rental rates, and requirements for lessees to actively cultivate oysters and deploy cultch materials.

• Regulates oyster harvesting through licensing requirements, tagging systems, culling standards (minimum 3-inch size), shell retention fees (15-50 cents per sack), and restrictions on nighttime fishing.

• Authorizes the Department of Marine Resources to manage state-owned oyster reefs, control oyster relaying from restricted areas to approved grounds, and establish depuration periods for public health protection.

• Takes effect July 1, 2025, and codifies existing provisions governing mineral leasing, marine resource management, seafood sanitation, and the operation of artificial reef programs.