MS SB2786

Courts must interpret statutes and agency rules de novo on appeal, without deferring to agency interpretations, and resolve any remaining ambiguities against increased agency authority.

Civil penalties awarded by state administrative agencies for conduct that would be subject to common law suit with jury trial rights must be preceded by jury trial in circuit, county, or chancery court.

Challenge period for contesting rule validity extends to one year after the date a person or entity is injured by final agency action, or one year after the rule's effective date, whichever is later.

Summary judgments and pre-existing chancery court civil cases without jury trial rights are exempted from the jury trial requirement for civil penalties.

Effective date is July 1, 2025.