MS HB1540

Establishes the Mississippi Search and Rescue Program under the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency to coordinate search and rescue operations following man-made or natural disasters within the state or in cooperation with other states and the federal government

Requires the agency to develop policies and procedures and coordinate with the State Fire Academy, Department of Public Marine Resources, Department of Public Safety, and Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks

Directs the agency director to appoint personnel for administrative requirements and operations, including staff overseeing urban search and rescue, planning, and logistics

Creates the Mississippi Search and Rescue Program Fund in the State Treasury to receive grants, gifts, state appropriations, and federal funds, with unexpended balances carrying forward rather than lapsing to the General Fund

Takes effect July 1, 2026