MS HB1328

Renames the Comprehensive Hurricane Damage Mitigation Program to the Strengthen Mississippi Homes Program and expands it to include wind damage mitigation in addition to hurricane damage.

Increases maximum financial grants from $10,000 to $15,000 per home and authorizes the Commissioner of Insurance to establish eligibility criteria and administration rules by regulation.

Removes provisions for cost-benefit studies, wind certification inspections, and an advisory council; allows the Department of Insurance to contract for personal and professional services to implement the program.

Diverts nonadmitted policy fees starting July 1, 2025: $10 million annually to the Strengthen Mississippi Homes Program Fund, $500,000 to the First Responders Health and Safety Trust Fund, $3.5 million to the Annual Fire Fund, with $8 million to the Mississippi Insurance Underwriting Association and excess funds split 50/50.

Increases the agent's certificate of authority filing fee from $25 to $50, with $25 of the new fee deposited into the Strengthen Mississippi Homes Fund starting July 1, 2025.