MS HB1714

Creates the Mississippi Windstorm Mitigation Association to administer grants up to $15,000 for retrofitting residential and commercial properties to meet Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety standards for hurricane, tornado, and windstorm protection.

Establishes an 11-member board of directors with appointments by the Governor (3), Lieutenant Governor (3), Speaker of the House (3), and Commissioner of Insurance (2), serving staggered three-year terms.

Funds the program through a $25 supplemental fee on insurance agent certificate of authority filings, deposited into the newly created Mississippi Windstorm Mitigation Association Fund in the State Treasury.

Requires all property insurers authorized in Mississippi to be members of the association as a condition of doing business in the state, with members granted immunity from liability for acts performed under the program.

Mandates properties receive certification from an Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety certified evaluator to qualify for grants, with initial board appointments required by August 1, 2026.