MS HB1197

Restructures the Mississippi Department of Archives and History Board of Trustees from a self-appointing body to one where all nine members are appointed by the Governor with Senate confirmation, effective July 1, 2026

Requires geographic distribution with two trustees from each of the four congressional districts plus one at-large trustee appointed statewide

Establishes staggered initial terms ranging from one to five years, with all subsequent terms lasting six years

Current trustees serving on July 1, 2026 will continue for one additional year before the new appointment structure takes full effect

Maintains existing provisions including five-member quorum requirement, unpaid trustee positions (expenses only), and at least one annual meeting at the State Capitol