MS HB770

Authorizes county boards of supervisors and municipal governing authorities to issue emergency licenses to out-of-state contractors during declared states of emergency in affected areas.

Requires applicants to provide a verification letter from their home state proving current licensure, a national criminal background report dated within 14 days showing no misdemeanors within 24 months or felonies within 15 years, and a surety bond of $15,000 for home builders or $5,000 for specialty contractors.

Establishes a $100 application fee and limits emergency licenses to one specific event with maximum project valuations of $100,000 for home builders and $35,000 for specialty contractors.

Restricts emergency licenses to work within the declared emergency area, for the scope of work permitted by the applicant's home-state license, and for the duration of the emergency declaration or an extended period at local authorities' discretion.

Amends Sections 19-5-9, 21-19-25, and 73-59-7 of the Mississippi Code to incorporate emergency licensing provisions for out-of-state contractors; takes effect July 1, 2025.