Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-2 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 13 / Section 13-2
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-2
Status: in_force

The following words and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed herein unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(a) “ Alteration ” means any change in the exterior appearance or materials of a landmark or a structure within a historic district or on a landmark site.

(b) “ Certificate of appropriateness ” means an official signed and dated governmental document issued by either a local historic preservation commission or a governing authority to permit specific work in a historic district or at a landmark site or landmark which has been reviewed and approved.

(c) “ Construction ” means work which is neither alteration nor demolition. Essentially, it is the erection of a new structure which did not previously exist, even if such a structure is partially joined to an existing structure.

(d) “ Demolition ” means the intentional removal of a structure within a local historic district or on a landmark site or which has been designated as a landmark.

(e) “ Demolition by neglect ” means substantial deterioration of a historic structure that results from improper maintenance or a lack of maintenance.

(f) “Design review guidelines,” if adopted by a local historic preservation commission, shall be in a written form designed to inform local property owners about historical architectural styles prevalent in a community and to recommend preferred treatments and discourage treatments that would compromise the architectural integrity of structures in a historic district or on a landmark site or individually designated as landmarks.

(g) “ Historic landmark ” means a structure of exceptional individual significance and typically is a structure which could not be included within a local historic district.

(h) “ Historic preservation commission ” means a municipal or county body established to advise a local government on matters relating to historic preservation, including the designation of historic districts, landmarks and landmark sites, and which may be empowered to review applications for permits for alteration, construction, demolition, relocation or subdivision for structures in historic districts or on landmark sites or designated as landmarks.

(i) “ Historic district ” means a group of two (2) or more tax parcels and their structures, and may be an entire neighborhood of structures linked by historical association or historical development. It is not necessary that all structures within a historic district share the same primary architectural style or be from the same primary historical period. A historic district may also include both commercial and residential structures, and may include structures covered by two (2) or more zoning classifications. A historic district may include both contributing and noncontributing structures.

(j) “ Landmark site ” means a location where a primary architectural or historical resource formerly stood or a significant historic event took place or an important archeological resource remains.

(k) “ Period of greatest historic significance for a landmark ” means the time period during which the landmark had been essentially completed but not yet altered. It is also the period during which the style of architecture of the landmark was commonplace or typical. If a landmark also achieved historical importance in part because of designed landscape features, the period of greatest historic significance includes the time period during which such landscape features were maintained.

(l) “ Relocation ” means the moving of a structure to a new location on its tax parcel or the relocation of such a structure to a new tax parcel.

(m) “ Structure ” means a man-made object and typically will be visible because of portions which exist above grade. Structures built during the historic period, 1700 forward, may in some instances not be visible above grade if they are cellars, cisterns, icehouses or similar objects which by their nature are intended to be built into the ground. A structure includes both interior components and visible exterior surfaces, as well as attached elements such as signs and related features such as walks, walls, fences and other nearby secondary structures or landmark features.

(n) “ Subdistricts ” means discrete areas within a larger historic district within which separate design guidelines are appropriate and that may be created to recognize different zoning classifications or historic development patterns which have caused adjacent historic areas to develop at different times.

(o) “ Subdivision ” includes any change in the boundaries of a single tax parcel, whether the change results in expansion or reduction or a boundary relocation.

(p) “ Substantial deterioration ” means structural degradation of such a nature that water penetration into a historic structure can no longer be prevented, or structural degradation that causes stress or strain on structural members when supports collapse or warp, evidence of which includes defective roofing materials, broken window coverings and visible interior decay.

(q) “ Survey of resources ” means the documentation, by historical research or a photographic record, of structures of historical interest within a specified area or jurisdiction or of existing structures within a proposed historic district.

(r) “ Unauthorized demolition ” means the deliberate demolition of a historic structure without prior review and approval by a local historic preservation commission or a governing authority to which such a commission has made a recommendation.

(s) “ Unreasonable economic hardship ” means the definition under constitutional standards used to determine whether a “taking” exists.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-115 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 17-115
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-115
Status: in_force

Upon the issuance and sale of bonds under Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 , the State Bond Commission shall deposit the proceeds of any such sale or sales in a special fund created in the State Treasury to be known as the “Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame Fund.” The proceeds of such bonds shall be used solely for the purposes provided in Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 , including the costs incident to the issuance and sale of such bonds. The costs incident to the issuance and sale of such bonds shall be disbursed by warrant upon requisition of the State Bond Commission, signed by the chairman of the commission. The remaining moneys in the fund shall be expended solely under the direction of the Department of Finance and Administration under such restrictions, if any, as may be contained in the resolution providing for the issuance of the bonds, and such funds shall be paid by the State Treasurer upon warrants issued by the State Fiscal Officer.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 37 / Section 41-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1
Status: repealed

(1) The Legislature finds that:

(a) Public Law 114-196 established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and its nonprofit partner, the America250 Foundation, to collaborate with affiliates at the local, territorial, state, tribal, regional, national and international levels to educate, engage and unite Americans throughout a commemorative period beginning in 2020 to officially conclude in 2027, culminating in the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, and of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America;

(b) As of December 1, 2021, eighteen (18) states have established organizations to support the America250 initiative by planning and implementing programs that honor the history and culture of the United States, including special events, public art displays, museum exhibitions and educational curriculums, and the United States Semiquincentennial Commission expects the widest participation to occur through state and local projects and events; and

(c) It is altogether appropriate during this commemorative period to participate in a celebration of this magnitude and salute our state heroes, groups, artists, industries, agriculture, historic sites and other contributions to the fabric and history of our nation.

(2) There is hereby created a Mississippi USA Semiquincentennial Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission,” to plan, promote and implement appropriate public celebrations and official events, programs and commemorations.

(3) The commission is authorized to cooperate with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and the America250 Foundation and other national and state organizations engaged in commemoration and celebration of the semiquincentennial, and other national, regional, state and local public and private organizations with compatible purposes.

(4) The commission shall designate and coordinate events and programs with respect to the formal semiquincentennial celebration and commemoration and promote and encourage through those events, programs, digital and printed media, symposia, and educational outreach all of the following:

(a) Awareness and understanding of the principles of the Declaration of Independence, of the winning of American independence in the American Revolutionary War, and of the establishment of America's system of constitutional self-government;

(b) Teaching students and increasing public knowledge and appreciation of the breadth of American history and the centuries-long quest for “liberty and justice for all,” to include sharing the stories and contributions of the various people who have populated the land, from indigenous peoples, explorers, British colonists, seekers of religious freedom, enslaved African Americans and many others who are part of America's stories;

(c) Advancing the cause of liberty and American self-government and of the meaning of “ E Pluribus Unum ” (“from many, one”) through promoting civic knowledge and practice, including America's “ Charters of Freedom ” (the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights) and the constitutional features of self-government emphasizing the roles of active and engaged good citizens;

(d) Emphasizing the service and sacrifices of veterans of all generations who have secured and preserved American independence and freedom and encouraging Mississippians to honor them; and

(e) Celebratory and commemorative events and activities throughout the State of Mississippi and its eighty-two (82) counties and its two hundred ninety-nine (299) incorporated municipalities celebrating our state's arts, culture, sports, entertainment, innovation, science, entrepreneurism, parks, preservation and youth.

(5) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Governor's First Lady, or her designee;

(b) The Lieutenant Governor, or his designee;

(c) The Speaker of the House of Representatives, or his designee;

(d) Three (3) members appointed by the Governor, one (1) of whom shall be an indigenous person, to serve terms concurrent with that of the Governor;

(e) Two (2) members appointed by the Lieutenant Governor to serve terms concurrent with that of the Lieutenant Governor;

(f) One (1) member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives to serve a term concurrent with that of the Speaker;

(g) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, or his designee;

(h) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Tourism Association, or her designee;

(i) The Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or her designee; and

(j) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee.

(6) Appointments shall be made within thirty (30) days after July 1, 2023 by the Legislature, and the First Lady shall serve as chairwoman for a term concurrent with the gubernatorial term. Within fifteen (15) days thereafter, on a day to be designated by the First Lady, the commission shall meet and organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for the commission's efficient operation, including officers, committees and subcommittees, quorum requirements, and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of his or her respective agency, department or business entity, as the case may be, to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. In the selection of its officers and the adoption of rules, resolutions and reports, an affirmative vote of a majority of the commission shall be required. All members shall be notified in writing of all meetings, such notices to be transmitted as appropriate at least five (5) days before the date on which a meeting is to be held. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly each year. Commission meetings shall be open to the public, and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(7) Commission members shall receive no compensation for their services. No commission member may incur per diem, travel or other expenses unless previously authorized by vote at a meeting of the commission, which action shall be recorded in the official minutes of the meeting. Legislative members of the commission shall be paid from the contingent expense funds of their respective houses in the same manner as provided for committee meetings when the Legislature is not in session; however, no per diem or expense for attending meetings of the commission will be paid while the Legislature is in session. Nonlegislative members shall be paid from any funds made available for that purpose to the commission or their respective agencies, departments or business entities.

(8) No elected public official or public employee serving on the commission shall be involved in soliciting any private funds or gifts for the commission.

(9) The First Lady, with concurrence of the commission, may designate the chief executive officer of an agency or nonprofit organization created or chartered by legislative act, or another qualified individual, to serve as the executive officer and secretary of the commission. The executive officer shall serve without additional compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses as provided for state employees. He or she shall exercise such powers delegated by the commission, including the right to apply for, receive, accept, deposit and administer pursuant to commission authorization any federal, state or local public or private funds given for express use by the commission for semiquincentennial purposes.

(10) The First Lady, with the concurrence of the commission, shall constitute one or more advisory committees to advise the commission. The committees may include such representatives as the respective executive officer, or his or her designee, of the Mississippi Department of Education, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, the Mississippi Community College Board, the Mississippi Military Department or the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board, or representatives of presidents of Mississippi's public colleges and universities, historically black colleges and universities, community colleges, associations and organizations of city or county officials, or state historical, educational, patriotic, civic, religious, military, veterans, community improvement and other organizations.

(11) To effectuate the purposes of this section, any department, division, board, bureau, commission or agency of the state or of any political subdivision thereof shall, at the request of the chair of the commission or her designee, provide to the commission such facilities, assistance and data as will enable the committee properly to carry out its task. All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state and of all subdivisions thereof shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this section. The commission shall encourage various state agencies and organizations to work cooperatively to promote the semiquincentennial.

(12) The commission is authorized and empowered to accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, and may create a supporting nonprofit organization, supervised and controlled by the commission through majority board control and representation, to accept and expend on behalf of the commission such grants and private donations, to encourage the broadest volunteer participation of public and private partners and organizations, and to assist the commission to carry out its functions. Any expenditures by the commission shall be authorized by a majority vote of the nonlegislative members of the commission.

(13) There is hereby created in the State Treasury the Mississippi Semiquincentennial Celebration Fund. Any appropriations, funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into this special fund. The fund shall be maintained by the State Treasurer as a special fund, separate and apart from the State General Fund. Unexpended amounts remaining in this special fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any interest earned or investment earnings on amounts in the fund shall be deposited to the credit of the special fund. Monies in the fund shall be expended by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this section.

(14) The commission shall make an annual written report and make any recommendations to the Governor and Legislature at least thirty (30) days prior to the convening of each Regular Session of the Legislature, beginning in 2024 and continuing through its final report in 2027. The commission shall consider and recommend ways for the state to commemorate the semiquincentennial through state and local legacy projects for the state at large and for counties and municipalities, as well as ways to enhance educational programs and extended learning offered by local boards of education, the Department of Education, relevant state agencies and departments, and two-year and four-year institutions of higher education, including historically black colleges and universities.

(15) This section shall stand repealed on June 30, 2027.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 5-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-1
Status: in_force

There shall be for the State of Mississippi a department of archives and history located in the state capitol in apartments set aside for its use by the governor. The objects and purposes of the department are the care and custody of official archives, the collecting of materials bearing upon the history of the state and of the territory included therein, from the earliest times, the editing of official records and other historical material, the diffusion of knowledge in reference to the history and resources of this state, the preparation and publication of annual reports, the encouragement of historical work and research and the performance of such other acts and requirements as may be enjoined by law.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-21 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 17 / Section 19-21
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-21
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter, a lender and museum can bind themselves to different loan provisions by written contract.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-15-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 15 / Section 15-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-15-1
Status: in_force

The governing authorities of any municipality or county are hereby authorized and empowered, in their discretion, to expend monies from the municipal or county general fund to match any other funds available for the purpose of supporting the development, promotion and coordination of the arts within such municipality or county.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-111 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 9 / Section 17-111
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-111
Status: in_force

The bonds issued under the provisions of Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 are general obligations of the State of Mississippi, and for the payment thereof the full faith and credit of the State of Mississippi is irrevocably pledged. If the funds appropriated by the Legislature are insufficient to pay the principal of and the interest on such bonds as they become due, then the deficiency shall be paid by the State Treasurer from any funds in the State Treasury not otherwise appropriated. All such bonds shall contain recitals on their faces substantially covering the provisions of this section.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-201 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 3-201
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-201
Status: in_force

The Interstate Library Compact is hereby enacted into law and entered into by this state with all states legally joining therein in the form substantially as follows:

INTERSTATE LIBRARY COMPACT

Article I. Policy and Purpose

Because the desire for the services provided by libraries transcends governmental boundaries and can most effectively be satisfied by giving such services to communities and people regardless of jurisdictional lines, it is the policy of the states party to this compact to cooperate and share their responsibilities; to authorize cooperation and sharing with respect to those types of library facilities and services which can be more economically or efficiently developed and maintained on a cooperative basis, and to authorize cooperation and sharing among localities, states and others in providing joint or cooperative library services in areas where the distribution of population or of existing and potential library resources make the provision of library service on an interstate basis the most effective way of providing adequate and efficient service.

Article II. Definitions

As used in this compact:

(a) “Public library agency” means any unit or agency of local or state government operating or having power to operate a library.

(b) “Private library agency” means any nongovernmental entity which operates or assumes a legal obligation to operate a library.

(c) “Library agreement” means a contract establishing an interstate library district pursuant to this compact or providing for the joint or cooperative furnishing of library services.

Article III. Interstate Library Districts

(a) Any one or more public library agencies in a party state in cooperation with any public library agency or agencies in one or more other party states may establish and maintain an interstate library district. Subject to the provisions of this compact and any other laws of the party states which pursuant hereto remain applicable, such district may establish, maintain and operate some or all of the library facilities and services for the area concerned in accordance with the terms of a library agreement therefor. Any private library agency or agencies within an interstate library district may cooperate therewith, assume duties, responsibilities and obligations thereto, and receive benefits therefrom as provided in any library agreement to which such agency or agencies become party.

(b) Within an interstate library district, and as provided by a library agreement, the performance of library functions may be undertaken on a joint or cooperative basis or may be undertaken by means of one or more arrangements between or among public or private library agencies for the extension of library privileges to the use of facilities or services operated or rendered by one or more of the individual library agencies.

(c) If a library agreement provides for joint establishment, maintenance or operation of library facilities or services by an interstate library district, such district shall have power to do any one or more of the following in accordance with such library agreement:

1. Undertake, administer and participate in programs or arrangements for securing, lending or servicing of books and other publications, any other materials suitable to be kept or made available by libraries, library equipment or for the dissemination of information about libraries, the value and significance of particular items therein, and the use thereof.

2. Accept for any of its purposes under this compact any and all donations, and grants of money, equipment, supplies, materials, and services, (conditional or otherwise) from any state or the United States or any subdivision or agency thereof, or interstate agency, or from any institution, person, firm or corporation, and receive, utilize and dispose of the same.

3. Operate mobile library units or equipment for the purpose of rendering bookmobile service within the district.

4. Employ professional, technical, clerical, and other personnel, and fix terms of employment, compensation and other appropriate benefits; and where desirable, provide for the inservice training of such personnel.

5. Acquire, hold, and dispose of any real or personal property or any interest or interests therein as may be appropriate to the rendering of library service.

6. Construct, maintain and operate a library, including any appropriate branches thereof.

7. Do such other things as may be incidental to or appropriate for the carrying out of any of the foregoing powers.

Article IV. Interstate Library Districts, Governing Board

(a) An interstate library district which establishes, maintains or operates any facilities or services in its own right shall have a governing board which shall direct the affairs of the district and act for it in all matters relating to its business. Each participating public library agency in the district shall be represented on the governing board which shall be organized and conduct its business in accordance with provision therefor in the library agreement. But in no event shall a governing board meet less often than twice a year.

(b) Any private library agency or agencies party to a library agreement establishing an interstate library district may be represented on or advise with the governing board of the district in such manner as the library agreement may provide.

Article V. State Library Agency Cooperation

Any two or more state library agencies of two or more of the party states may undertake and conduct joint or cooperative library programs, render joint or cooperative library services, and enter into and perform arrangements for the cooperative or joint acquisition, use, housing and disposition of items or collections of materials which, by reason of expense, rarity, specialized nature, or infrequency of demand therefor would be appropriate for central collection and shared use. Any such programs, services or arrangements may include provision for the exercise on a cooperative or joint basis of any power exercisable by an interstate library district and an agreement embodying any such program, service or arrangement shall contain provisions covering the subjects detailed in Article VI of this compact for interstate library agreements.

Article VI. Library Agreement

(a) In order to provide for any joint or cooperative undertaking pursuant to this compact, public and private library agencies may enter into library agreements. Any agreement executed pursuant to the provisions of this compact shall, as among the parties to the agreement:

1. Detail the specific nature of the services, programs, facilities, arrangements or properties to which it is applicable.

2. Provide for the allocation of costs and other financial responsibilities.

3. Specify the respective rights, duties, obligations and liabilities of the parties.

4. Set forth the terms and conditions for duration, renewal, termination, abrogation, disposal of joint or common property, if any, and all other matters which may be appropriate to the proper effectuation and performance of the agreement.

(b) No public or private library agency shall undertake to exercise itself, or jointly with any other library agency, by means of a library agreement any power prohibited to such agency by the constitution or statutes of its state.

(c) No library agreement shall become effective until filed with the compact administrator of each state involved, and approved in accordance with Article VII of this compact.

Article VII. Approval of Library Agreements

(a) Every library agreement made pursuant to this compact shall, prior to and as a condition precedent to its entry into force, be submitted to the attorney general of each state in which a public library agency party thereto is situated, who shall determine whether the agreement is in proper form and compatible with the laws of his state. The attorneys general shall approve any agreement submitted to them unless they shall find that it does not meet the conditions set forth herein and shall detail in writing addressed to the governing bodies of the public library agencies concerned the specific respects in which the proposed agreement fails to meet the requirements of law. Failure to disapprove an agreement submitted hereunder within ninety days of its submission shall constitute approval thereof.

(b) In the event that a library agreement made pursuant to this compact shall deal in whole or in part with the provision of services or facilities with regard to which an officer or agency of the state government has constitutional or statutory powers of control, the agreement shall, as a condition precedent to its entry into force, be submitted to the state officer or agency having such power of control and shall be approved or disapproved by him or it as to all matters within his or its jurisdiction in the same manner and subject to the same requirements governing the action of the attorneys general pursuant to paragraph (a) of this article. This requirement of submission and approval shall be in addition to and not in substitution for the requirement of submission to and approval by the attorneys general.

Article VIII. Other Laws Applicable

Nothing in this compact or in any library agreement shall be construed to supersede, alter or otherwise impair any obligation imposed on any library by otherwise applicable law, nor to authorize the transfer or disposition of any property held in trust by a library agency in a manner contrary to the terms of such trust.

Article IX. Appropriations and Aid

(a) Any public library agency party to a library agreement may appropriate funds to the interstate library district established thereby in the same manner and to the same extent as to a library wholly maintained by it and, subject to the laws of the state in which such public library agency is situated, may pledge its credit in support of an interstate library district established by the agreement.

(b) Subject to the provisions of the library agreement pursuant to which it functions and the laws of the states in which such district is situated, an interstate library district may claim and receive any state and federal aid which may be available to library agencies.

Article X. Compact Administrator

Each state shall designate a compact administrator with whom copies of all library agreements to which his state or any public library agency thereof is party shall be filed. The administrator shall have such other powers as may be conferred upon him by the laws of his state and may consult and cooperate with the compact administrators of other party states and take such steps as may effectuate the purposes of this compact. If the laws of a party state so provide, such state may designate one or more deputy compact administrators in addition to its compact administrator.

Article XI. Entry Into Force and Withdrawal

(a) This compact shall enter into force and effect immediately upon its enactment into law by any two states. Thereafter, it shall enter into force and effect as to any other state upon the enactment thereof by such state.

(b) This compact shall continue in force with respect to a party state and remain binding upon such state until six months after such state has given notice to each other party state of the repeal thereof. Such withdrawal shall not be construed to relieve any party to a library agreement entered into pursuant to this compact from any obligation of that agreement prior to the end of its duration as provided therein.

Article XII. Construction and Severability

This compact shall be liberally construed so as effectuate the purposes thereof. The provisions of this compact shall be severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence or provision of this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of any party state or of the United States or the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If this compact shall be held contrary to the constitution of any state party thereto, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-363 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 3-363
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-363
Status: in_force

The commission shall develop a statewide master plan for public libraries, including plans for levels of library services and resources, which is developed through a continuing process of planning. The master plan must be designed to extend five (5) years into the future and must be made current at least every two (2) years.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 41-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1
Status: repealed

(1) The Legislature finds that:

(a) Public Law 114-196 established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and its nonprofit partner, the America250 Foundation, to collaborate with affiliates at the local, territorial, state, tribal, regional, national and international levels to educate, engage and unite Americans throughout a commemorative period beginning in 2020 to officially conclude in 2027, culminating in the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, and of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America;

(b) As of December 1, 2021, eighteen (18) states have established organizations to support the America250 initiative by planning and implementing programs that honor the history and culture of the United States, including special events, public art displays, museum exhibitions and educational curriculums, and the United States Semiquincentennial Commission expects the widest participation to occur through state and local projects and events; and

(c) It is altogether appropriate during this commemorative period to participate in a celebration of this magnitude and salute our state heroes, groups, artists, industries, agriculture, historic sites and other contributions to the fabric and history of our nation.

(2) There is hereby created a Mississippi USA Semiquincentennial Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission,” to plan, promote and implement appropriate public celebrations and official events, programs and commemorations.

(3) The commission is authorized to cooperate with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and the America250 Foundation and other national and state organizations engaged in commemoration and celebration of the semiquincentennial, and other national, regional, state and local public and private organizations with compatible purposes.

(4) The commission shall designate and coordinate events and programs with respect to the formal semiquincentennial celebration and commemoration and promote and encourage through those events, programs, digital and printed media, symposia, and educational outreach all of the following:

(a) Awareness and understanding of the principles of the Declaration of Independence, of the winning of American independence in the American Revolutionary War, and of the establishment of America's system of constitutional self-government;

(b) Teaching students and increasing public knowledge and appreciation of the breadth of American history and the centuries-long quest for “liberty and justice for all,” to include sharing the stories and contributions of the various people who have populated the land, from indigenous peoples, explorers, British colonists, seekers of religious freedom, enslaved African Americans and many others who are part of America's stories;

(c) Advancing the cause of liberty and American self-government and of the meaning of “ E Pluribus Unum ” (“from many, one”) through promoting civic knowledge and practice, including America's “ Charters of Freedom ” (the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights) and the constitutional features of self-government emphasizing the roles of active and engaged good citizens;

(d) Emphasizing the service and sacrifices of veterans of all generations who have secured and preserved American independence and freedom and encouraging Mississippians to honor them; and

(e) Celebratory and commemorative events and activities throughout the State of Mississippi and its eighty-two (82) counties and its two hundred ninety-nine (299) incorporated municipalities celebrating our state's arts, culture, sports, entertainment, innovation, science, entrepreneurism, parks, preservation and youth.

(5) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Governor's First Lady, or her designee;

(b) The Lieutenant Governor, or his designee;

(c) The Speaker of the House of Representatives, or his designee;

(d) Three (3) members appointed by the Governor, one (1) of whom shall be an indigenous person, to serve terms concurrent with that of the Governor;

(e) Two (2) members appointed by the Lieutenant Governor to serve terms concurrent with that of the Lieutenant Governor;

(f) One (1) member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives to serve a term concurrent with that of the Speaker;

(g) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, or his designee;

(h) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Tourism Association, or her designee;

(i) The Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or her designee; and

(j) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee.

(6) Appointments shall be made within thirty (30) days after July 1, 2023 by the Legislature, and the First Lady shall serve as chairwoman for a term concurrent with the gubernatorial term. Within fifteen (15) days thereafter, on a day to be designated by the First Lady, the commission shall meet and organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for the commission's efficient operation, including officers, committees and subcommittees, quorum requirements, and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of his or her respective agency, department or business entity, as the case may be, to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. In the selection of its officers and the adoption of rules, resolutions and reports, an affirmative vote of a majority of the commission shall be required. All members shall be notified in writing of all meetings, such notices to be transmitted as appropriate at least five (5) days before the date on which a meeting is to be held. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly each year. Commission meetings shall be open to the public, and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(7) Commission members shall receive no compensation for their services. No commission member may incur per diem, travel or other expenses unless previously authorized by vote at a meeting of the commission, which action shall be recorded in the official minutes of the meeting. Legislative members of the commission shall be paid from the contingent expense funds of their respective houses in the same manner as provided for committee meetings when the Legislature is not in session; however, no per diem or expense for attending meetings of the commission will be paid while the Legislature is in session. Nonlegislative members shall be paid from any funds made available for that purpose to the commission or their respective agencies, departments or business entities.

(8) No elected public official or public employee serving on the commission shall be involved in soliciting any private funds or gifts for the commission.

(9) The First Lady, with concurrence of the commission, may designate the chief executive officer of an agency or nonprofit organization created or chartered by legislative act, or another qualified individual, to serve as the executive officer and secretary of the commission. The executive officer shall serve without additional compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses as provided for state employees. He or she shall exercise such powers delegated by the commission, including the right to apply for, receive, accept, deposit and administer pursuant to commission authorization any federal, state or local public or private funds given for express use by the commission for semiquincentennial purposes.

(10) The First Lady, with the concurrence of the commission, shall constitute one or more advisory committees to advise the commission. The committees may include such representatives as the respective executive officer, or his or her designee, of the Mississippi Department of Education, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, the Mississippi Community College Board, the Mississippi Military Department or the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board, or representatives of presidents of Mississippi's public colleges and universities, historically black colleges and universities, community colleges, associations and organizations of city or county officials, or state historical, educational, patriotic, civic, religious, military, veterans, community improvement and other organizations.

(11) To effectuate the purposes of this section, any department, division, board, bureau, commission or agency of the state or of any political subdivision thereof shall, at the request of the chair of the commission or her designee, provide to the commission such facilities, assistance and data as will enable the committee properly to carry out its task. All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state and of all subdivisions thereof shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this section. The commission shall encourage various state agencies and organizations to work cooperatively to promote the semiquincentennial.

(12) The commission is authorized and empowered to accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, and may create a supporting nonprofit organization, supervised and controlled by the commission through majority board control and representation, to accept and expend on behalf of the commission such grants and private donations, to encourage the broadest volunteer participation of public and private partners and organizations, and to assist the commission to carry out its functions. Any expenditures by the commission shall be authorized by a majority vote of the nonlegislative members of the commission.

(13) There is hereby created in the State Treasury the Mississippi Semiquincentennial Celebration Fund. Any appropriations, funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into this special fund. The fund shall be maintained by the State Treasurer as a special fund, separate and apart from the State General Fund. Unexpended amounts remaining in this special fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any interest earned or investment earnings on amounts in the fund shall be deposited to the credit of the special fund. Monies in the fund shall be expended by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this section.

(14) The commission shall make an annual written report and make any recommendations to the Governor and Legislature at least thirty (30) days prior to the convening of each Regular Session of the Legislature, beginning in 2024 and continuing through its final report in 2027. The commission shall consider and recommend ways for the state to commemorate the semiquincentennial through state and local legacy projects for the state at large and for counties and municipalities, as well as ways to enhance educational programs and extended learning offered by local boards of education, the Department of Education, relevant state agencies and departments, and two-year and four-year institutions of higher education, including historically black colleges and universities.

(15) This section shall stand repealed on June 30, 2027.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-27-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 23 / Section 27-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-27-1
Status: in_force

(1) There is created the Mississippi Blues Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission.” The commission may accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, to assist it to carry out its functions.

(2) For purposes of this chapter, the term “ blues ” shall mean African-American roots music and the culture that created it.

(3) The powers, functions and duties of the commission shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following:

(a) To study, deliberate and report to the Governor and the Legislature on the best method or plan to market and foster an appreciation of the blues, to include tourism, academic study and blues archives, blues historical preservation, blues cultural education and the support of performing artists. The marketing plan shall be designed to attract tourists, conferences, music performances, filmmakers and others for the purpose of economic development of all geographic areas of the state, through the promotion of the blues and the heritage and culture that produced the blues, and to analyze the tourism potential of the blues for Mississippi.

(b) To make an inventory of blues “assets” that make up the blues and blues culture that could be developed into a program for domestic and international tourism, and opportunities for investment.

(c) To establish a statewide Mississippi “Blues Trail” infrastructure to offer to tourists and targeted groups a structured tour of Mississippi blues historical sites and performance venues.

(d) To coordinate with the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, the Department of Archives and History, the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, the State Institutions of Higher Learning, the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi, the University Center for Economic Development at Mississippi Valley State University, the Delta Center for Culture and Learning at Delta State University, the Delta Blues Museum, the Delta Music Institute, the Mississippi Arts Commission and similar organizations in the sharing of resources and information in order to ensure a comprehensive approach to marketing the blues and blues culture in Mississippi.

(e) To make recommendations regarding the establishment of, and budgeting for, a permanent Mississippi Office of the Blues as an agency of state government with an executive director and appropriate staff to carry out the marketing plan developed by the commission. To the extent practical, any office shall be located at an existing public or private location which is appropriate to the blues or blues culture in Mississippi, with minimal cost to the state.

(f) To coordinate the blues marketing plan with any existing state historic preservation programs, in order to:

(i) Identify and preserve blues historic properties or sites;

(ii) Determine the eligibility of those properties or sites for listing on the National Register;

(iii) Prepare nominations of those properties or sites for inclusion on the National Register;

(iv) Maintain blues historical and archaeological data bases; and

(v) Evaluate those properties and sites for eligibility for state and federal preservation incentives.

(g) To raise and expend grant funds to provide assistance to any blues musicians in need.

(4) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority;

(b) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or his designee;

(c) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee;

(d) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, or his designee;

(e) The Director of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi;

(f) Until April 10, 2008, the Director of the University Center for Economic Development at Mississippi Valley State University, and after April 10, 2008, a person designated by the President of Mississippi Valley State University;

(g) The Director of the Delta Center for Culture and Learning at Delta State University;

(h) The President of the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center;

(i) The State Director of the USDA Rural Development Agency;

(j) Two (2) members of the Mississippi Senate designated by the Lieutenant Governor, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(k) Two (2) members of the Mississippi House of Representatives designated by the Speaker of the House, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(l) Two (2) members appointed by the Governor, who shall have experience in cultural affairs or tourism development in the Mississippi Delta; and

(m) Four (4) members appointed by the Governor from the state at large, who shall have demonstrated a commitment to the understanding and promotion of the blues.

(5) The Governor shall designate one (1) commission member to serve as chairman for a term concurrent with that of the Governor. The commission shall meet upon the call of the chairman not later than August 1, 2004, and shall organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for efficient operation of the commission, including officers, quorum requirements and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of his or her respective agency, department, university or business entity, as the case may be, to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly each year. Meetings of the commission shall be open to the public and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(6) Members of the commission shall receive no compensation for their services.

(7) The commission shall submit a report, including any proposed legislation, to the Governor and to the Legislature before the convening of the 2009 Regular Session. The report shall include a comprehensive state plan for marketing the blues as specifically provided above.

(8) All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state, and all subdivisions thereof, shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this chapter.

(9) Any funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into a special fund which is created in the State Treasury. The fund shall be maintained by the State Treasurer as a special fund, separate and apart from the General Fund of the state. Unexpended amounts remaining in the special fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any interest earned or investment earnings on amounts in the fund shall be deposited to the credit of the special fund.

Monies in the fund shall be expended by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this chapter.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-3
Status: in_force

The following words and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed herein, unless the context clearly requires otherwise:

(a) “Lender” means an individual, corporation, partnership, trust, estate, or similar organization, whose name appears on the records of the museum as the entity legally entitled to control property on loan to the museum.

(b) “Loan,” “on loan,” or “loaned,” means property in the possession of the museum accompanied by evidence that the lender intended to retain title to the property and to return to take physical possession of the property in the future.

(c) “Museum” means a public or private nonprofit agency or institution located in this state and organized on a permanent basis for essentially educational or aesthetic purposes, which utilizes a professional staff, owns or utilizes tangible objects, cares for them, and exhibits them to the public on a regular basis.

(d) “Museum records” means documents created and/or held by the museum in its regular course of business.

(e) “Property” means a tangible object, in the custody of a museum, that has intrinsic historical, artistic, scientific, or cultural value.

(f) “Restricted certified mail” means certified mail that carries on its face, in a conspicuous place where it will not be obliterated, the endorsement “deliver to addressee only” and for which the post office provides the mailer with a return receipt showing the date of delivery, the place of delivery, and the person to whom delivered.

(g) “Unclaimed property” means property meeting the following two (2) conditions: (a) property is on loan to the museum; (b) the original lender, or anyone acting legitimately on the lender's behalf, has not contacted the museum in writing for at least twenty-five (25) years from the date of the beginning of the loan, if the loan was for an indefinite or undetermined period, or for at least five (5) years after the date upon which the loan for a definite period expired.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-9 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 7-9
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-9
Status: in_force

All sunken or abandoned ships and wrecks of the sea, and any part or the contents thereof, and all treasure imbedded in the earth, located in, on or under the surface of lands belonging to the State of Mississippi, including its tidelands, submerged lands and the beds of its rivers and the sea within the jurisdiction of the State of Mississippi are hereby declared to be Mississippi landmarks and are the sole property of the State of Mississippi and may not be taken, altered, damaged, destroyed, salvaged or excavated without a contract or permit of the board.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-21 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 7-21
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-21
Status: in_force

All salvage or recovery operations described under Section 39-7-17 , and all operations conducted under permits set out in Section 39-7-19 , must be carried out under the general supervision of the board, in accordance with reasonable rules and regulations adopted by the board, and in such manner that the maximum amount of historic, scientific, archeological, and educational information may be recovered and preserved in addition to the physical recovery of items. The board shall be the legal custodian of all antiquities recovered, and is specifically authorized and empowered to promulgate such rules and regulations and to require such contract or permit conditions as to reasonably effect the purposes of this chapter.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-133 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 5-133
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-133
Status: in_force

The Board of Trustees of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with the National Park Service, state and local government entities, nonprofit organizations, and any other groups, organizations or individuals that may be interested in the preservation and development of the Coker House and accompanying land and the Champion Hill Battlefield.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-5 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 17-5
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-5
Status: in_force

The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Dizzy Dean Museum shall be funded, in part, by the sale of exclusive rights to market soft drinks at the State Fairgrounds, the Jim Buck Ross Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum and the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Dizzy Dean Museum; however, the sale of such rights for the state fairgrounds shall include the Mississippi State Fair and the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo and no other event or activity on the state fairgrounds. The Mississippi Fair Commission and the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce shall have the authority to enter contracts for the sale of the aforementioned exclusive rights for a term not exceeding twelve (12) years per contract. If bids for the purchase of such rights are in an amount that is less than the amount needed to construct the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Dizzy Dean Museum, then the Mississippi Fair Commission and the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce may reject all bids and shall not be obligated to enter into such contracts. Funds so generated shall be deposited in a special, interest-bearing account, in the State Treasury to be administered by the Department of Finance and Administration. The account shall be known as the “Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Dizzy Dean Museum Account” and all interest accrued thereon shall be credited to the account. Any funds in the account shall not lapse into the General Fund at the end of the fiscal year but shall remain in the account. Any balance remaining at the end of the project shall be transferred to the operating account of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Dizzy Dean Museum.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-105 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 17-105
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-105
Status: in_force

The bonds authorized under Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall be signed by the Chairman of the State Bond Commission, or by his facsimile signature, and the official seal of the State Bond Commission shall be affixed thereto, attested by the Secretary of the State Bond Commission. The interest coupons, if any, to be attached to such bonds may be executed by the facsimile signatures of such officers. Whenever any such bonds shall have been signed by the officials designated to sign the bonds who were in office at the time of such signing but who may have ceased to be such officers before the sale and delivery of such bonds, or who may not have been in office on the date such bonds may bear, the signatures of such officers upon such bonds and coupons shall nevertheless be valid and sufficient for all purposes and have the same effect as if the person so officially signing such bonds had remained in office until their delivery to the purchaser, or had been in office on the date such bonds may bear. However, notwithstanding anything in Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 to the contrary, such bonds may be issued as provided in the Registered Bond Act of the State of Mississippi.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-32-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 25 / Section 32-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-32-1
Status: in_force

(1) There is hereby created the Mississippi Country and Western Music Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission.” The commission may accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, to assist it to carry out its functions.

(2) For purposes of this chapter, the term “ country and western music ” shall mean country and western, blue grass and related music genre and the culture that created it.

(3) The powers, functions and duties of the commission shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) To study, deliberate and report to the Governor and the Legislature on or before January 1, 2012, on the best method to market and foster an appreciation of country and western music, to include tourism, academic study and country and western music archives, country and western music historical preservation, country and western music cultural education and the support of performing artists. Such marketing plan shall be designed to attract tourists, conferences, music performances, filmmakers and others for the purpose of economic development of all geographic areas of the state through the promotion of country and western music and the heritage and culture that produced such, and to analyze the tourism potential of the country and western music for Mississippi.

(b) To make an inventory of country and western music “assets” that make up country and western music and its culture that could be developed into a program for domestic and international tourism, and opportunities for investment.

(c) Coordination with the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, the Department of Archives and History, the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, the state institutions of higher learning, the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi, the Mississippi Arts Commission, and similar organizations to share resources and information in order to ensure a comprehensive approach to marketing the country and western music culture in Mississippi.

(d) To make recommendations regarding the establishment of, and budgeting for, a permanent Mississippi office of country and western music as an agency of state government with an executive director and appropriate staff to carry out the marketing plan developed by the commission. To the extent practical, any office shall be located at an existing public or private location which is appropriate to the country and western music culture in Mississippi, with minimal cost to the state.

(e) Coordination of the country and western music marketing plan with any existing state historic preservation programs, in order to:

(i) Identify and preserve country and western music historic properties;

(ii) Determine the eligibility of such properties for listing on the National Register;

(iii) Prepare nominations of such sites for inclusion on the National Register;

(iv) Maintenance of country and western music historical and archaeological data bases; and

(v) Evaluation of such sites for eligibility for state and federal preservation incentives.

(f) To implement and continue the development and creation of the Mississippi Country Music Trail as outlined in Section 39-33-1 , provide oversight of the trail and its infrastructure, and explore funding opportunities to support continued implementation.

(4) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority;

(b) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or his designee;

(c) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee;

(d) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, or his designee;

(e) The Chairman of the Board of the Southern Arts and Entertainment Center, or his designee;

(f) The Director of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi;

(g) The State Director of the USDA Rural Development Agency;

(h) Two (2) members of the Mississippi Senate designated by the Lieutenant Governor, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(i) Two (2) members of the Mississippi House of Representatives designated by the Speaker of the House, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(j) Two (2) members appointed by the Governor, who shall have experience in cultural affairs or tourism development in East Central Mississippi; and

(k) Four (4) members appointed by the Governor from the state at large, who shall have demonstrated a commitment to the understanding and promotion of country and western music.

(5) The Governor shall designate one (1) commission member to serve as chairman for a term concurrent with that of the Governor. The commission shall meet upon the call of the chairman not later than July 1, 2011, and shall organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for efficient operation of the commission, including officers, quorum requirements and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of their departments to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly. Meetings of the commission shall be open to the public and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(6) Members of the commission shall receive no compensation for their services.

(7) The commission shall submit a report, including any proposed legislation, to the Governor and to the Legislature before the convening of the 2012 Regular Session. The report shall include a comprehensive state plan for marketing country and western music history as specifically provided above.

(8) All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state and all subdivisions thereof shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this chapter.

(9) Any funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into a special fund which is hereby created in the State Treasury, and disbursement therefrom shall be made upon warrants by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this chapter.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-351 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 3-351
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-351
Status: in_force

This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Mississippi Statewide Library Development System Act of 1988.”
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-21 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 13 / Section 19-21
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-21
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter, a lender and museum can bind themselves to different loan provisions by written contract.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-23 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 13-23
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-23
Status: in_force

Nothing in Laws, 2001, ch. 443 shall require the dissolution of any local historic preservation commission created in Mississippi before July 1, 2001. Any local historic preservation commission created by ordinance before July 1, 2001 shall continue in existence and continue to have all of the purposes, powers and authority set out in the ordinance creating such commission. Any such previously created commission may be given the powers set forth in this chapter if a governing authority reenacts a local ordinance in conformity with this chapter.

No designation of a historic district or landmark or landmark site shall be invalidated because the designation was made under a valid ordinance before July 1, 2001.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-23-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 19 / Section 23-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-23-3
Status: in_force

The Mississippi Children's Museum may be located:

(a) At the old National Guard Armory located on the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson, Mississippi, after the repair, renovation, furnishing and equipping of such facility by the Department of Finance and Administration as provided for in Sections 16 through 33 of Chapter 535, Laws of 1997, as amended;

(b) In such structure and at such location as shall be submitted by the Board of Directors of the Mississippi Children's Museum, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation, to and approved as an appropriate structure and location by the Department of Finance and Administration, after the repair, renovation, furnishing and equipping of such facility by the Department of Finance and Administration as provided in Sections 16 through 33 of Chapter 535, Laws of 1997, as amended; or

(c) In the building, formerly known as the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, on land located adjacent to the State Fairgrounds in the City of Jackson, County of Hinds, Mississippi, described more specifically as follows:

Starting at the point of intersection of the North line of Pearl Street and the West line of Jefferson Street, run Northerly along the West line of Jefferson Street a distance of 240 feet to the point of beginning, an iron pin. Continue Northerly along the West line of Jefferson Street for a distance of 257.9 feet to an iron pin; turn left through an angle of 89 degrees--57 minutes--14 seconds and run Westerly for a distance of 278.9 feet to an iron pin on the east right-of-way line of the G.M. & O. Railroad; turn left through an angle of 79 degrees--29 minutes--30 seconds and run Southerly along the East right-of-way of the G.M. & O. Railroad (Said line being a curve to the left with a radius of 2814.93 feet, chord definition) for a distance of 260.4 feet to an iron pipe; turn left through an angle of 95 degrees--12 minutes--26 seconds and run Easterly and parallel with the North line of this tract for a distance of 314.7 feet to the point of beginning.

(d) On certain real property owned by the State of Mississippi and held by the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, more particularly described as follows:

39 acres lying in the northeast corner of the intersection of Mississippi 25 and Interstate 55.

(e) At any location in Hinds County as shall be submitted by the Board of Directors of the Mississippi Children's Museum, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation, to the Department of Finance and Administration and approved as an appropriate location by the Department of Finance and Administration.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-105 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 13 / Section 17-105
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-105
Status: in_force

The bonds authorized under Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall be signed by the Chairman of the State Bond Commission, or by his facsimile signature, and the official seal of the State Bond Commission shall be affixed thereto, attested by the Secretary of the State Bond Commission. The interest coupons, if any, to be attached to such bonds may be executed by the facsimile signatures of such officers. Whenever any such bonds shall have been signed by the officials designated to sign the bonds who were in office at the time of such signing but who may have ceased to be such officers before the sale and delivery of such bonds, or who may not have been in office on the date such bonds may bear, the signatures of such officers upon such bonds and coupons shall nevertheless be valid and sufficient for all purposes and have the same effect as if the person so officially signing such bonds had remained in office until their delivery to the purchaser, or had been in office on the date such bonds may bear. However, notwithstanding anything in Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 to the contrary, such bonds may be issued as provided in the Registered Bond Act of the State of Mississippi.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-17 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 13 / Section 19-17
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-17
Status: in_force

From and after March 26, 1997, a museum shall have a lien for expenses incurred for reasonable care of loaned property unclaimed after the expiration date of the loan.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-35-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 13 / Section 35-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-35-1
Status: in_force

(1) The Mississippi Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission (commission) is hereby established to prepare for and commemorate the Sesquicentennial, or One Hundred and Fiftieth anniversary, of Mississippi's participation in the American Civil War (April 1861-April 1865).

(2) The commission shall have a total membership of fifteen (15) members, or their designees, as follows: (a) the Executive Director of the Mississippi Development Authority; (b) the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History; (c) the State Superintendent of Public Education, or his designee; (d) the Manager of the Bureau of Film and Culture of the Mississippi Development Authority, Division of Tourism; (e) the President/Chairman of the Mississippi Historical Society; (f) the Chairman of the Mississippi Civil War Battlefield Commission; (g) the Director of the Brice's Crossroads Battlefield Commission; (h) the Director of the Vicksburg National Military Park; (i) the Director of the Battle of Shiloh-Battle of Corinth National Military Park; (j) the Director of the Grand Gulf Military Monument; (k) a representative of the Mississippi Tourism Association; (l) the National Park Service Administrator of Ship Island/Fort Massachusetts; (m) a citizen of Mississippi appointed by the Governor; (n) a member of the Mississippi Senate appointed by the Lieutenant Governor who shall serve in an ex officio nonvoting capacity; and (o) a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker who shall serve in an ex officio nonvoting capacity.

(3) Ex officio members and legislative members of the commission shall serve terms coincident with their terms of office. Citizen members shall serve a term of four (4) years. Appointments to fill vacancies occurring for a reason other than the expiration of a term shall be for the remainder of the unexpired terms. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointments, and all members may be reappointed.

(4) The commission shall elect a chairman and vice chairman from among its membership. The commission may name five (5) of its members to constitute an executive committee, which shall act for the commission pursuant to its direction.

(5) The commission may appoint and establish an advisory council composed of citizens at large who have knowledge of American Civil War and Mississippi history and interest in its Sesquicentennial celebration, to assist the commission in its work.

(6) A majority of the members of the commission shall constitute a quorum. The meetings of the commission shall be held at the call of the chairman or whenever a majority of the members so request. No recommendation of the commission shall be adopted except by majority vote of the commission.

(7) Nonlegislative members of the commission shall receive no compensation for their services but may receive expense reimbursement and mileage for all reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties as provided by law. Legislative members of the commission shall receive compensation applicable to committee meetings when the Legislature is not in session.

(8) The commission shall hire an executive director, and relevant support staff, to guide and support the actions of the commission. Employment shall not extend beyond the date of expiration of the commission and shall be subject to an annual review by the executive committee of the commission.

(9) The commission may solicit, accept, use and dispose of public or nonpublic funds, gifts, grants, donations, bequests or other funds or real or personal property for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the work of the commission. The commission may procure services, enter into contracts, leases or other legal agreements as it may deem necessary to carry out its duties as set forth in this section, but no contract or other legal agreement shall be entered into by the commission that extends beyond the date of expiration of the commission.

(10) The commission shall have the following powers and duties:

(a) Plan, develop and carry out educational, informational, new media/web-based programs and activities appropriate to commemorate the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War, with emphasis on the military operations which occurred in the State of Mississippi;

(b) Encourage interdisciplinary examination of the American Civil War;

(c) Facilitate activities related to the American Civil War throughout Mississippi;

(d) Encourage civic, historical, educational, economic and other organizations throughout Mississippi to organize and participate in activities to expand the understanding and appreciation of the significance of the American Civil War;

(e) Provide technical and financial assistance to localities and nonprofit organizations to further the commemoration of the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War;

(f) Develop programs and facilities to ensure that the Sesquicentennial commemoration of the American Civil War results in a positive legacy and long-term public benefit;

(g) Facilitate the development and conduct of programs designed to involve all citizens in activities that commemorate the American Civil War; and

(h) Submit to the Legislature and the Governor an annual report for publication of the work and activity of the commission no later than the first day of each regular session of the Legislature.

(11) The commission shall direct the Mississippi Department of Archives and History to enhance and expand Civil War markers across the state, along with all relevant educational and informational documentation necessary for the creation of a Civil War Trail, in advance of the initial celebration of the Sesquicentennial in Mississippi.

(12) All state agencies and universities shall provide technical assistance to the commission upon request.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-151 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 5-151
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-151
Status: in_force

(1) The Mississippi Department of Archives and History is authorized to proceed with implementing the recovery and restoration of the historic shipwreck site near the eastern shore of the Bay of Biloxi designated as state site 22Ja542. The department shall implement a program to publicize the historic nature of the site and to involve the private sector to the greatest extent possible.

(2) The Department of Marine Resources, the University of Southern Mississippi, the Mississippi Development Authority and any other agency upon request by the Department of Archives and History shall to the greatest extent practical, assist the Department of Archives in the recovery and restoration project.

(3)(a) There is created in the State Treasury a fund designated for the historic shipwreck project. The fund may receive monies from any available private or public source.

(b) Expenditures may be made from the fund upon requisition by the executive director of the department of Archives and History.

(c) The fund shall be treated as a special trust fund. Interest earned on the principal shall be credited by the Treasurer to the fund.

(4) The executive director shall file an annual report detailing the receipts and expenditures with the chairpersons of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-29-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 29-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-29-1
Status: in_force

(1) There is created the Mississippi Commission on the Holocaust in the executive branch of state government. The commission shall be assigned to the Office of the Secretary of State for administrative purposes only.

(2) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) Ex officio members as follows:

(i) The State Superintendent of Public Education or his or her designee;

(ii) Commissioner of Institutions of Higher Learning or his or her designee;

(b) Public members as follows:

(i) Seven (7) public members, at least one (1) from each of the congressional districts, to be appointed by the Governor;

(ii) Five (5) public members, at least one (1) from each of the congressional districts, to be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; and

(iii) Five (5) public members, at least one (1) from each of the congressional districts, to be appointed by the Lieutenant Governor.

(c) The public members of the commission shall be residents of this state and shall be appointed with due regard for broad geographic representation. The public members should include, but are not be limited to, the following:

(i) Individuals who have served prominently as spokespersons for or as leaders of organizations or corporations that serve members of religious, ethnic, national heritage, or social groups that were subjected to genocide, torture, wrongful deprivation of liberty or property, officially imposed or sanctioned violence, and other forms of human rights violations and persecution at the hands of the Nazis and their collaborators during the Nazi era;

(ii) Individuals who are experienced in the field of Holocaust education;

(iii) Individuals who represent liberators of victims of the Holocaust; or

(iv) Lay persons who have an interest in Holocaust education.

(d) Public members of the commission shall be appointed for the terms of five (5) years and until their respective successors are appointed and qualified. Public members may be eligible for reappointment. The office of any member of the commission who fails to attend more than two (2) consecutive meetings of the commission without an excuse approved by a resolution of the commission shall become vacant. All vacancies shall be filled by appointment in the same manner as the original appointment, and the person appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(e) The commission shall have a chairperson who shall be appointed by the Governor for a term of five (5) years and until his or her successor is appointed and qualified.

(f) Seven (7) members of the commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of the business of the commission. Public members shall have the right to vote on any matter before the commission, but ex officio members and their designees shall not have the right to vote.

(g) The Speaker of the House of Representatives shall appoint a member of the House of Representatives and the Lieutenant Governor shall appoint a member of the Senate to serve as advisors to the commission.

(3) The Mississippi Commission on the Holocaust shall adopt rules and regulations and set standards and policies for the organization, operation, management, budgeting and programs of the commission.

(a) The commission shall provide, based upon the collective knowledge and experience of its members, assistance and advice to public and private schools, colleges and universities with respect to the implementation of Holocaust education and awareness programs.

(b) The commission shall meet with appropriate education officials and other interested public and private organizations, including service organizations, for the purpose of providing information, planning, coordination, or modification of courses of study or programs dealing with the subject of the Holocaust.

(c) The commission shall survey and catalogue the extent of the Holocaust and genocide education presently being incorporated into the curricula and taught in the educational system of this state.

(d) The commission shall inventory those Holocaust memorials, exhibits and resources that could not be incorporated into courses of study or programs at various locations and other educational agencies for the development and implementation of Holocaust and genocide education programs. In furtherance of this responsibility, the commission may contact and cooperate with existing Holocaust and genocide public and private nonprofit resource organizations and may act as a liaison concerning Holocaust and genocide education or members of the United States Senate and House of Representatives, the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and other national and international Holocaust agencies.

(e) The commission shall compile a roster of individual volunteers who are willing to share their verifiable knowledge and experience in classrooms, seminars and workshops on the subject of the Holocaust. The volunteers may be survivors of the Holocaust, liberators of concentration camps, scholars, members of the clergy, community relations professionals, and other persons who, by virtue of their experience, education, or interest, have experience with the Holocaust.

(f) The commission shall coordinate events memorializing the Holocaust and seek volunteers who are willing and able to participate in commemorative events that will enhance public awareness of the significance of the Holocaust.

(g) The commission shall prepare reports for the Governor and the Legislature regarding its findings and recommendations to facilitate the inclusion of Holocaust studies and special programs memorializing the Holocaust in educational systems of this state.

(h) The commission shall appoint advisory committees to advise the commission on the fulfillment of its duties.

(4) The commission may receive gifts, grants and donations from any public or private sources. Members of the commission may not be compensated for the performance of their duties except from funds that are specifically appropriated therefor by the Legislature or from gifts, grants or donations.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-15 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-15
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-15
Status: in_force

A museum which acquires title to property under this chapter passes good title to another when transferring the property with the intent to pass title.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-11-9 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 11 / Section 11-9
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-11-9
Status: in_force

(1) The Mississippi Arts Commission is authorized and empowered to hold public hearings, to enter into contracts within the limit of funds available therefor, with individuals, organizations and institutions for services furthering the objectives of the commission's programs; to enter into contracts, within the limit of funds available therefor, with local and regional associations for cooperative endeavors furthering the objectives of the commission's programs; to accept gifts, contributions and bequests of funds from individuals, foundations, corporations and other organizations or institutions for the purpose of furthering the objectives of the commission's programs; to make and sign any agreements and to do and perform any acts that may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter. The commission may request and shall receive from any department, division, board, bureau, commission or agency of the state such assistance and data as will enable it properly to carry out its powers and duties hereunder.

(2) A special fund to be designated as the Mississippi Fund for the Arts is hereby created in the State Treasury. All funds deposited in this fund shall be used exclusively for the objectives of the commission as herein provided. Donations, bequests and grants deposited into the Mississippi Fund for the Arts may be disbursed by the Mississippi Arts Commission in accordance with the terms of the bequest or grant and in compliance with the purposes and policies of the Mississippi Arts Commission. Any disbursements made from the fund shall be authorized by both the chairman and the executive director of the commission and shall be supported by official actions and votes spread upon the minutes of the commission at an open public meeting. Any unexpended balance in the fund at the end of the fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund and may be expended by the commissioner in subsequent fiscal years. Any interest earned on the fund may remain in the fund for disbursement by the commission in compliance with its purposes and policies. All transactions of the fund shall be reported annually to appropriate state agencies and subject to audit by the State Auditor and by auditors of donors. The Mississippi Fund for the Arts shall not be used for grants from federal agencies, including, but not limited to, the National Endowment for the Arts.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-9 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 3-9
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-9
Status: in_force

Two (2) or more counties by action of their boards of supervisors may join in establishing and maintaining a regional public library system under the terms of a contract to which all of the participating counties agree. The expenses of the regional public library systems shall be apportioned between or among the counties concerned on such basis as shall be agreed upon in the contract. The public library system headquarters building shall be located at a place in one of the counties to be agreed upon by the boards of supervisors of the various counties in the regional public library system.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-15 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 7-15
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-15
Status: in_force

Upon majority vote of the board any Mississippi landmark on public or private land may be determined to be of no further historical, archaeological, or architectural significance, or not of sufficient significance to warrant its further classification as such, and upon such determination it may be removed from such designation. In the case of sites located on private land that have theretofore been designated by instrument of record, the board is authorized to cause to be executed and recorded in the deed records of the county where such site is located an instrument setting out such determination and releasing the site from the provisions thereof.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-33-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 27 / Section 33-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-33-1
Status: in_force

The Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority is authorized and directed to do the following:

(a) To make an inventory of country music “assets” that make up the country music culture that could be developed into a program for domestic and international tourism, and opportunities for investment.

(b) To establish a statewide Mississippi “Country Music Trail” infrastructure to offer to tourists and target groups a structured tour of Mississippi country music historical sites and performance venues.

(c) To designate specific sites for the erection of appropriate “Mississippi Country Music Trail” markers to offer to tourists and targeted groups a structured tour of Mississippi country music historical sites and performance venues. The division shall be authorized to purchase appropriate Mississippi Country Music Trail markers from any of its available funds. The texts for the Mississippi Country Music Trail markers shall be approved by the division. The Mississippi Department of Transportation shall cooperate with the division by erecting and maintaining the markers that have been approved by the division.

(d) To coordinate the Mississippi Country Music Trail program with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning, the Jimmie Rogers Museum, the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi, the Delta Center for Culture and Learning at Delta State University, the Mississippi Arts Commission and similar organizations to share resources and information in order to ensure a comprehensive approach to marketing the country music and country music culture in Mississippi.

(e) To coordinate the Mississippi Country Music Trail marketing plan with any existing state historic preservation program, in order to identify and preserve country music historic properties, and determine the eligibility of such properties for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, and prepare nominations of such sites.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-119 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 9 / Section 17-119
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-119
Status: in_force

The bonds authorized under the authority of Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 may be validated in the Chancery Court of the First Judicial District of Hinds County, Mississippi, in the manner and with the force and effect provided by Chapter 13, Title 31, Mississippi Code of 1972 , for the validation of county, municipal, school district and other bonds. The notice to taxpayers required by such statutes shall be published in a newspaper published or having a general circulation in the City of Jackson, Mississippi.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 41-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1
Status: repealed

(1) The Legislature finds that:

(a) Public Law 114-196 established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and its nonprofit partner, the America250 Foundation, to collaborate with affiliates at the local, territorial, state, tribal, regional, national and international levels to educate, engage and unite Americans throughout a commemorative period beginning in 2020 to officially conclude in 2027, culminating in the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, and of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America;

(b) As of December 1, 2021, eighteen (18) states have established organizations to support the America250 initiative by planning and implementing programs that honor the history and culture of the United States, including special events, public art displays, museum exhibitions and educational curriculums, and the United States Semiquincentennial Commission expects the widest participation to occur through state and local projects and events; and

(c) It is altogether appropriate during this commemorative period to participate in a celebration of this magnitude and salute our state heroes, groups, artists, industries, agriculture, historic sites and other contributions to the fabric and history of our nation.

(2) There is hereby created a Mississippi USA Semiquincentennial Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission,” to plan, promote and implement appropriate public celebrations and official events, programs and commemorations.

(3) The commission is authorized to cooperate with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and the America250 Foundation and other national and state organizations engaged in commemoration and celebration of the semiquincentennial, and other national, regional, state and local public and private organizations with compatible purposes.

(4) The commission shall designate and coordinate events and programs with respect to the formal semiquincentennial celebration and commemoration and promote and encourage through those events, programs, digital and printed media, symposia, and educational outreach all of the following:

(a) Awareness and understanding of the principles of the Declaration of Independence, of the winning of American independence in the American Revolutionary War, and of the establishment of America's system of constitutional self-government;

(b) Teaching students and increasing public knowledge and appreciation of the breadth of American history and the centuries-long quest for “liberty and justice for all,” to include sharing the stories and contributions of the various people who have populated the land, from indigenous peoples, explorers, British colonists, seekers of religious freedom, enslaved African Americans and many others who are part of America's stories;

(c) Advancing the cause of liberty and American self-government and of the meaning of “ E Pluribus Unum ” (“from many, one”) through promoting civic knowledge and practice, including America's “ Charters of Freedom ” (the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights) and the constitutional features of self-government emphasizing the roles of active and engaged good citizens;

(d) Emphasizing the service and sacrifices of veterans of all generations who have secured and preserved American independence and freedom and encouraging Mississippians to honor them; and

(e) Celebratory and commemorative events and activities throughout the State of Mississippi and its eighty-two (82) counties and its two hundred ninety-nine (299) incorporated municipalities celebrating our state's arts, culture, sports, entertainment, innovation, science, entrepreneurism, parks, preservation and youth.

(5) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Governor's First Lady, or her designee;

(b) The Lieutenant Governor, or his designee;

(c) The Speaker of the House of Representatives, or his designee;

(d) Three (3) members appointed by the Governor, one (1) of whom shall be an indigenous person, to serve terms concurrent with that of the Governor;

(e) Two (2) members appointed by the Lieutenant Governor to serve terms concurrent with that of the Lieutenant Governor;

(f) One (1) member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives to serve a term concurrent with that of the Speaker;

(g) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, or his designee;

(h) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Tourism Association, or her designee;

(i) The Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or her designee; and

(j) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee.

(6) Appointments shall be made within thirty (30) days after July 1, 2023 by the Legislature, and the First Lady shall serve as chairwoman for a term concurrent with the gubernatorial term. Within fifteen (15) days thereafter, on a day to be designated by the First Lady, the commission shall meet and organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for the commission's efficient operation, including officers, committees and subcommittees, quorum requirements, and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of his or her respective agency, department or business entity, as the case may be, to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. In the selection of its officers and the adoption of rules, resolutions and reports, an affirmative vote of a majority of the commission shall be required. All members shall be notified in writing of all meetings, such notices to be transmitted as appropriate at least five (5) days before the date on which a meeting is to be held. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly each year. Commission meetings shall be open to the public, and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(7) Commission members shall receive no compensation for their services. No commission member may incur per diem, travel or other expenses unless previously authorized by vote at a meeting of the commission, which action shall be recorded in the official minutes of the meeting. Legislative members of the commission shall be paid from the contingent expense funds of their respective houses in the same manner as provided for committee meetings when the Legislature is not in session; however, no per diem or expense for attending meetings of the commission will be paid while the Legislature is in session. Nonlegislative members shall be paid from any funds made available for that purpose to the commission or their respective agencies, departments or business entities.

(8) No elected public official or public employee serving on the commission shall be involved in soliciting any private funds or gifts for the commission.

(9) The First Lady, with concurrence of the commission, may designate the chief executive officer of an agency or nonprofit organization created or chartered by legislative act, or another qualified individual, to serve as the executive officer and secretary of the commission. The executive officer shall serve without additional compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses as provided for state employees. He or she shall exercise such powers delegated by the commission, including the right to apply for, receive, accept, deposit and administer pursuant to commission authorization any federal, state or local public or private funds given for express use by the commission for semiquincentennial purposes.

(10) The First Lady, with the concurrence of the commission, shall constitute one or more advisory committees to advise the commission. The committees may include such representatives as the respective executive officer, or his or her designee, of the Mississippi Department of Education, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, the Mississippi Community College Board, the Mississippi Military Department or the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board, or representatives of presidents of Mississippi's public colleges and universities, historically black colleges and universities, community colleges, associations and organizations of city or county officials, or state historical, educational, patriotic, civic, religious, military, veterans, community improvement and other organizations.

(11) To effectuate the purposes of this section, any department, division, board, bureau, commission or agency of the state or of any political subdivision thereof shall, at the request of the chair of the commission or her designee, provide to the commission such facilities, assistance and data as will enable the committee properly to carry out its task. All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state and of all subdivisions thereof shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this section. The commission shall encourage various state agencies and organizations to work cooperatively to promote the semiquincentennial.

(12) The commission is authorized and empowered to accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, and may create a supporting nonprofit organization, supervised and controlled by the commission through majority board control and representation, to accept and expend on behalf of the commission such grants and private donations, to encourage the broadest volunteer participation of public and private partners and organizations, and to assist the commission to carry out its functions. Any expenditures by the commission shall be authorized by a majority vote of the nonlegislative members of the commission.

(13) There is hereby created in the State Treasury the Mississippi Semiquincentennial Celebration Fund. Any appropriations, funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into this special fund. The fund shall be maintained by the State Treasurer as a special fund, separate and apart from the State General Fund. Unexpended amounts remaining in this special fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any interest earned or investment earnings on amounts in the fund shall be deposited to the credit of the special fund. Monies in the fund shall be expended by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this section.

(14) The commission shall make an annual written report and make any recommendations to the Governor and Legislature at least thirty (30) days prior to the convening of each Regular Session of the Legislature, beginning in 2024 and continuing through its final report in 2027. The commission shall consider and recommend ways for the state to commemorate the semiquincentennial through state and local legacy projects for the state at large and for counties and municipalities, as well as ways to enhance educational programs and extended learning offered by local boards of education, the Department of Education, relevant state agencies and departments, and two-year and four-year institutions of higher education, including historically black colleges and universities.

(15) This section shall stand repealed on June 30, 2027.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 32 / Section 41-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-41-1
Status: repealed

(1) The Legislature finds that:

(a) Public Law 114-196 established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and its nonprofit partner, the America250 Foundation, to collaborate with affiliates at the local, territorial, state, tribal, regional, national and international levels to educate, engage and unite Americans throughout a commemorative period beginning in 2020 to officially conclude in 2027, culminating in the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, and of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America;

(b) As of December 1, 2021, eighteen (18) states have established organizations to support the America250 initiative by planning and implementing programs that honor the history and culture of the United States, including special events, public art displays, museum exhibitions and educational curriculums, and the United States Semiquincentennial Commission expects the widest participation to occur through state and local projects and events; and

(c) It is altogether appropriate during this commemorative period to participate in a celebration of this magnitude and salute our state heroes, groups, artists, industries, agriculture, historic sites and other contributions to the fabric and history of our nation.

(2) There is hereby created a Mississippi USA Semiquincentennial Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission,” to plan, promote and implement appropriate public celebrations and official events, programs and commemorations.

(3) The commission is authorized to cooperate with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and the America250 Foundation and other national and state organizations engaged in commemoration and celebration of the semiquincentennial, and other national, regional, state and local public and private organizations with compatible purposes.

(4) The commission shall designate and coordinate events and programs with respect to the formal semiquincentennial celebration and commemoration and promote and encourage through those events, programs, digital and printed media, symposia, and educational outreach all of the following:

(a) Awareness and understanding of the principles of the Declaration of Independence, of the winning of American independence in the American Revolutionary War, and of the establishment of America's system of constitutional self-government;

(b) Teaching students and increasing public knowledge and appreciation of the breadth of American history and the centuries-long quest for “liberty and justice for all,” to include sharing the stories and contributions of the various people who have populated the land, from indigenous peoples, explorers, British colonists, seekers of religious freedom, enslaved African Americans and many others who are part of America's stories;

(c) Advancing the cause of liberty and American self-government and of the meaning of “ E Pluribus Unum ” (“from many, one”) through promoting civic knowledge and practice, including America's “ Charters of Freedom ” (the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights) and the constitutional features of self-government emphasizing the roles of active and engaged good citizens;

(d) Emphasizing the service and sacrifices of veterans of all generations who have secured and preserved American independence and freedom and encouraging Mississippians to honor them; and

(e) Celebratory and commemorative events and activities throughout the State of Mississippi and its eighty-two (82) counties and its two hundred ninety-nine (299) incorporated municipalities celebrating our state's arts, culture, sports, entertainment, innovation, science, entrepreneurism, parks, preservation and youth.

(5) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Governor's First Lady, or her designee;

(b) The Lieutenant Governor, or his designee;

(c) The Speaker of the House of Representatives, or his designee;

(d) Three (3) members appointed by the Governor, one (1) of whom shall be an indigenous person, to serve terms concurrent with that of the Governor;

(e) Two (2) members appointed by the Lieutenant Governor to serve terms concurrent with that of the Lieutenant Governor;

(f) One (1) member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives to serve a term concurrent with that of the Speaker;

(g) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, or his designee;

(h) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Tourism Association, or her designee;

(i) The Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or her designee; and

(j) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee.

(6) Appointments shall be made within thirty (30) days after July 1, 2023 by the Legislature, and the First Lady shall serve as chairwoman for a term concurrent with the gubernatorial term. Within fifteen (15) days thereafter, on a day to be designated by the First Lady, the commission shall meet and organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for the commission's efficient operation, including officers, committees and subcommittees, quorum requirements, and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of his or her respective agency, department or business entity, as the case may be, to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. In the selection of its officers and the adoption of rules, resolutions and reports, an affirmative vote of a majority of the commission shall be required. All members shall be notified in writing of all meetings, such notices to be transmitted as appropriate at least five (5) days before the date on which a meeting is to be held. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly each year. Commission meetings shall be open to the public, and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(7) Commission members shall receive no compensation for their services. No commission member may incur per diem, travel or other expenses unless previously authorized by vote at a meeting of the commission, which action shall be recorded in the official minutes of the meeting. Legislative members of the commission shall be paid from the contingent expense funds of their respective houses in the same manner as provided for committee meetings when the Legislature is not in session; however, no per diem or expense for attending meetings of the commission will be paid while the Legislature is in session. Nonlegislative members shall be paid from any funds made available for that purpose to the commission or their respective agencies, departments or business entities.

(8) No elected public official or public employee serving on the commission shall be involved in soliciting any private funds or gifts for the commission.

(9) The First Lady, with concurrence of the commission, may designate the chief executive officer of an agency or nonprofit organization created or chartered by legislative act, or another qualified individual, to serve as the executive officer and secretary of the commission. The executive officer shall serve without additional compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses as provided for state employees. He or she shall exercise such powers delegated by the commission, including the right to apply for, receive, accept, deposit and administer pursuant to commission authorization any federal, state or local public or private funds given for express use by the commission for semiquincentennial purposes.

(10) The First Lady, with the concurrence of the commission, shall constitute one or more advisory committees to advise the commission. The committees may include such representatives as the respective executive officer, or his or her designee, of the Mississippi Department of Education, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, the Mississippi Community College Board, the Mississippi Military Department or the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board, or representatives of presidents of Mississippi's public colleges and universities, historically black colleges and universities, community colleges, associations and organizations of city or county officials, or state historical, educational, patriotic, civic, religious, military, veterans, community improvement and other organizations.

(11) To effectuate the purposes of this section, any department, division, board, bureau, commission or agency of the state or of any political subdivision thereof shall, at the request of the chair of the commission or her designee, provide to the commission such facilities, assistance and data as will enable the committee properly to carry out its task. All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state and of all subdivisions thereof shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this section. The commission shall encourage various state agencies and organizations to work cooperatively to promote the semiquincentennial.

(12) The commission is authorized and empowered to accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, and may create a supporting nonprofit organization, supervised and controlled by the commission through majority board control and representation, to accept and expend on behalf of the commission such grants and private donations, to encourage the broadest volunteer participation of public and private partners and organizations, and to assist the commission to carry out its functions. Any expenditures by the commission shall be authorized by a majority vote of the nonlegislative members of the commission.

(13) There is hereby created in the State Treasury the Mississippi Semiquincentennial Celebration Fund. Any appropriations, funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into this special fund. The fund shall be maintained by the State Treasurer as a special fund, separate and apart from the State General Fund. Unexpended amounts remaining in this special fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any interest earned or investment earnings on amounts in the fund shall be deposited to the credit of the special fund. Monies in the fund shall be expended by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this section.

(14) The commission shall make an annual written report and make any recommendations to the Governor and Legislature at least thirty (30) days prior to the convening of each Regular Session of the Legislature, beginning in 2024 and continuing through its final report in 2027. The commission shall consider and recommend ways for the state to commemorate the semiquincentennial through state and local legacy projects for the state at large and for counties and municipalities, as well as ways to enhance educational programs and extended learning offered by local boards of education, the Department of Education, relevant state agencies and departments, and two-year and four-year institutions of higher education, including historically black colleges and universities.

(15) This section shall stand repealed on June 30, 2027.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 9 / Section 13-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-3
Status: in_force

The governing authority of each municipality and county, either independently or jointly with the governing authority of an adjacent municipality or county, or both, is hereby empowered, in its discretion, to enact ordinances providing for the creation of one or more local historic preservation commissions to advise on the establishment and location of potential historic districts and the designation of potential historic landmarks and landmark sites within the jurisdictional area of the governing authority. The governing authorities of each municipality and county, either independently or jointly with the governing authorities of an adjacent municipality, may enact ordinances for the establishment of such local historic districts, historic landmarks and landmark sites within the jurisdictional area of the governing authorities as these authorities shall choose to designate. Each such ordinance shall be adopted after investigation of the historical, architectural, archaeological and cultural significance of the buildings, structures, features, sites and surroundings of such districts, landmarks or landmark sites and after having held public hearing thereon. Notice of such public hearing, specifying the boundaries of any proposed historic district and the location of proposed historic landmarks and landmark sites shall be published once a week for at least three (3) consecutive weeks in at least one (1) newspaper published in such municipality or county. The first publication of such resolution shall be made not less than twenty-one (21) days prior to the date fixed in such resolution for the public hearing and the last publication shall be made not more than seven (7) days prior to such date. If no newspaper be published in such municipality or county, then such notice shall be given by publishing the resolution for the required time in some newspaper having a general circulation in such municipality or county.

An ordinance to establish a local historic preservation commission may precede an ordinance to designate one or more local historic districts and one or more landmarks or landmark sites. Whenever governing authorities enact such an ordinance creating a historic preservation commission before an ordinance or ordinances designating one or more local historic districts and one or more landmarks or landmark sites, the local historic preservation commission shall review such potential local historic districts or potential landmarks or landmark sites and make a recommendation to the governing authorities before such designation.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-119 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 17-119
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-119
Status: in_force

The bonds authorized under the authority of Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 may be validated in the Chancery Court of the First Judicial District of Hinds County, Mississippi, in the manner and with the force and effect provided by Chapter 13, Title 31, Mississippi Code of 1972 , for the validation of county, municipal, school district and other bonds. The notice to taxpayers required by such statutes shall be published in a newspaper published or having a general circulation in the City of Jackson, Mississippi.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-11 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 13-11
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-11
Status: in_force

A governing authority may provide by local ordinance the procedures to be followed to designate historic districts, landmarks and landmark sites. Such an ordinance may provide that a governing authority may designate such properties upon the recommendation of a local historic preservation commission.

A potential historic district or landmark or landmark site may be proposed for designation by either a majority of the members of a local historic preservation commission or an owner of a potential landmark or landmark site or an organization which has as one of its central purposes the promotion of historic preservation objectives. If in private ownership, a landmark site must include significant surviving landscape features to qualify for designation unless its primary significance is archeological, and new construction after review and approval, shall be built to fit into such landscape features rather than replace them or shall be designed to avoid insofar as possible an archeological resource rather than replace it. If in public ownership, a local historic preservation commission shall discourage new construction on a site of great significance to the entire community unless the new construction can be located on a portion of the site which will permit a continuing understanding of its historical character and will avoid damage to surviving landscape features or an archeological resource.

Once a nomination has been filed with an existing historic preservation commission or the governing authority of a municipality or county proposing to create such a commission and designate one or more local properties, a decision on whether to proceed with the designation must be made within six (6) months.

When a historic preservation commission already exists within a community, a majority of the commission's members must vote in favor of any proposed designation in order for the file supporting the designation to be sent forward to the local governing authority for its consideration. No file purporting to justify a proposed designation may be forwarded to a governing authority unless the commission's recommendation includes a map that clearly delineates boundaries for the proposed designation, a verbal description and justification of the proposed boundaries and a written statement of significance for the historic district or landmark or landmark site proposed for designation. Unless justification is contained in a designating ordinance, the boundary for any historic landmark shall include an entire tax parcel and may include adjoining tax parcels that were historically linked to the primary parcel during the period of greatest historic significance for the landmark structure.

The local governing authority must conduct at least one public hearing on the proposed designation and notice of the public hearing must be published weekly for at least three (3) consecutive weeks in a local newspaper authorized to publish legal notices.

The local governing authority must take action on the proposed designation within sixty (60) days of the public hearing, either to adopt a designating ordinance or to reject the proposed designation.

As quickly as would be reasonably possible, a local historic preservation commission must notify other municipal agencies and any appropriate county or state agencies of the designation of a historic district, landmark or landmark site. The commission must maintain in its official files an updated list and map of local designations and provide copies of such a map to other governmental agencies within one (1) week of the preparation of a new version of the map.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-35-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 32 / Section 35-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-35-1
Status: in_force

(1) The Mississippi Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission (commission) is hereby established to prepare for and commemorate the Sesquicentennial, or One Hundred and Fiftieth anniversary, of Mississippi's participation in the American Civil War (April 1861-April 1865).

(2) The commission shall have a total membership of fifteen (15) members, or their designees, as follows: (a) the Executive Director of the Mississippi Development Authority; (b) the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History; (c) the State Superintendent of Public Education, or his designee; (d) the Manager of the Bureau of Film and Culture of the Mississippi Development Authority, Division of Tourism; (e) the President/Chairman of the Mississippi Historical Society; (f) the Chairman of the Mississippi Civil War Battlefield Commission; (g) the Director of the Brice's Crossroads Battlefield Commission; (h) the Director of the Vicksburg National Military Park; (i) the Director of the Battle of Shiloh-Battle of Corinth National Military Park; (j) the Director of the Grand Gulf Military Monument; (k) a representative of the Mississippi Tourism Association; (l) the National Park Service Administrator of Ship Island/Fort Massachusetts; (m) a citizen of Mississippi appointed by the Governor; (n) a member of the Mississippi Senate appointed by the Lieutenant Governor who shall serve in an ex officio nonvoting capacity; and (o) a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker who shall serve in an ex officio nonvoting capacity.

(3) Ex officio members and legislative members of the commission shall serve terms coincident with their terms of office. Citizen members shall serve a term of four (4) years. Appointments to fill vacancies occurring for a reason other than the expiration of a term shall be for the remainder of the unexpired terms. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointments, and all members may be reappointed.

(4) The commission shall elect a chairman and vice chairman from among its membership. The commission may name five (5) of its members to constitute an executive committee, which shall act for the commission pursuant to its direction.

(5) The commission may appoint and establish an advisory council composed of citizens at large who have knowledge of American Civil War and Mississippi history and interest in its Sesquicentennial celebration, to assist the commission in its work.

(6) A majority of the members of the commission shall constitute a quorum. The meetings of the commission shall be held at the call of the chairman or whenever a majority of the members so request. No recommendation of the commission shall be adopted except by majority vote of the commission.

(7) Nonlegislative members of the commission shall receive no compensation for their services but may receive expense reimbursement and mileage for all reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties as provided by law. Legislative members of the commission shall receive compensation applicable to committee meetings when the Legislature is not in session.

(8) The commission shall hire an executive director, and relevant support staff, to guide and support the actions of the commission. Employment shall not extend beyond the date of expiration of the commission and shall be subject to an annual review by the executive committee of the commission.

(9) The commission may solicit, accept, use and dispose of public or nonpublic funds, gifts, grants, donations, bequests or other funds or real or personal property for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the work of the commission. The commission may procure services, enter into contracts, leases or other legal agreements as it may deem necessary to carry out its duties as set forth in this section, but no contract or other legal agreement shall be entered into by the commission that extends beyond the date of expiration of the commission.

(10) The commission shall have the following powers and duties:

(a) Plan, develop and carry out educational, informational, new media/web-based programs and activities appropriate to commemorate the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War, with emphasis on the military operations which occurred in the State of Mississippi;

(b) Encourage interdisciplinary examination of the American Civil War;

(c) Facilitate activities related to the American Civil War throughout Mississippi;

(d) Encourage civic, historical, educational, economic and other organizations throughout Mississippi to organize and participate in activities to expand the understanding and appreciation of the significance of the American Civil War;

(e) Provide technical and financial assistance to localities and nonprofit organizations to further the commemoration of the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War;

(f) Develop programs and facilities to ensure that the Sesquicentennial commemoration of the American Civil War results in a positive legacy and long-term public benefit;

(g) Facilitate the development and conduct of programs designed to involve all citizens in activities that commemorate the American Civil War; and

(h) Submit to the Legislature and the Governor an annual report for publication of the work and activity of the commission no later than the first day of each regular session of the Legislature.

(11) The commission shall direct the Mississippi Department of Archives and History to enhance and expand Civil War markers across the state, along with all relevant educational and informational documentation necessary for the creation of a Civil War Trail, in advance of the initial celebration of the Sesquicentennial in Mississippi.

(12) All state agencies and universities shall provide technical assistance to the commission upon request.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-127 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 9 / Section 17-127
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-127
Status: in_force

Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall be deemed to be full and complete authority for the exercise of the powers granted, but Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall not be deemed to repeal or to be in derogation of any existing law of this state.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-101 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 13 / Section 17-101
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-101
Status: in_force

The Department of Finance and Administration, at one time or from time to time, may declare by resolution the necessity for issuance of general obligation bonds of the State of Mississippi to provide funds for construction, repairing, remodeling, equipping, furnishing, adding to or improving the capital facility of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Dizzy Dean Museum authorized under Sections 39-17-1 through 39-17-9 . Upon the adoption of a resolution by the Department of Finance and Administration, declaring the necessity for the issuance of any part or all of the general obligation bonds authorized by this section, the department shall deliver a certified copy of its resolution or resolutions to the State Bond Commission. Upon receipt of such resolution, the State Bond Commission, in its discretion, may act as the issuing agent, prescribe the form of the bonds, advertise for and accept bids, issue and sell the bonds so authorized to be sold, and do any and all other things necessary and advisable in connection with the issuance and sale of such bonds. The amount of bonds issued under Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall not exceed Two Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,500,000.00).
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-9 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 5-9
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-9
Status: in_force

A Local Government Records Office is established within the Department of Archives and History. The office shall begin operation when sufficient funds therefor have accumulated in the Local Government Records Management Fund established in Section 25-60-5 . The office shall have the following powers and duties as well as any others which are prescribed by law elsewhere or assigned to the office by the director of the department:

(a) Provide and coordinate education and training for counties and municipalities on records management issues.

(b) Establish records management standards to guide counties and municipalities, such standards to include, but not be limited to, guidelines for microfilm production and storage, electronic records security and migration, records preservation, imaging and records storage.

(c) Prepare records control schedules for adoption or amendment by the Local Government Records Committee established in Section 25-60-1 . In the preparation of the schedules and amendments thereto, the office shall seek input from interested citizens and organizations.

(d) Establish standards for records storage areas of local governmental bodies, such standards to include, but not be limited to, guidelines for the selection of an off-site storage facility for records of enduring or archival value.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 3-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-1
Status: in_force

It is hereby declared to be the policy of this state to allow and promote the establishment and development of free public library service throughout this state as a part of its provisions for public education. “Public library” shall mean a library which provides customary services, without charge, to all the residents of a county, city or region and is supported whole or in part by public funds. Reasonable reimbursements may be collected for special library services provided these are determined in advance and in writing by the administrative board of trustees.

The board of supervisors of any county in the State of Mississippi, or other governing bodies of the counties of this state, and municipalities and towns, through their governing bodies, may establish and maintain or aid in establishing and maintaining free public libraries for the use of the citizens of the respective counties, municipalities or towns, either separately or in connection with free public libraries already established therein. For said purpose said governing body may acquire the necessary real estate either by purchase, gift or donation and may erect the necessary buildings thereon.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-361 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 3-361
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-361
Status: in_force

The commission may employ consultants and other staff to implement the development system by working with cooperatives and public library systems.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-103 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 17-103
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-103
Status: in_force

The principal of and interest on the bonds authorized under Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall be payable in the manner provided in this section. Such bonds shall bear such date or dates, be in such denomination or denominations, bear interest at such rate or rates not exceeding the limits set forth in Section 75-17-101 , be payable at such place or places within or without the State of Mississippi, shall mature absolutely at such time or times not to exceed twenty (20) years from date of issue, be redeemable before maturity at such time or times and upon such terms, with or without premium, shall bear such registration privileges, and shall be substantially in such form, all as determined by resolution of the State Bond Commission.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-24 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 5-24
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-24
Status: in_force

(1) There is created in the State Treasury a special fund to be known as the “Mississippi History Trust Fund.” The Mississippi Department of Archives and History may solicit and accept donations, bequests, devises, gifts and grants of money from individuals, organizations, and corporations to be deposited in the Mississippi History Trust Fund. All funds deposited in the Mississippi History Trust Fund shall be expended upon appropriation by the Legislature, solely for the purpose of collecting, preserving, protecting, researching and interpreting the State of Mississippi's historic resources and for promoting the appreciation of those resources.

(2) The Mississippi Department of Archives and History, with the advice of the Office of the State Treasurer, is authorized to establish a comprehensive investment plan for the purposes of the Mississippi History Trust Fund and to invest any funds in the trust fund in any instrument, obligation, security or property that constitutes legal investments and holdings. The comprehensive investment plan shall specify the investment policies to be used by the department in its administration of the funds in the trust fund. The department may authorize investments in any investment vehicle authorized for the Mississippi Prepaid Affordable College Tuition (MPACT) Program under Section 37-155-9 . However, the restrictions in Section 37-155-9 as to percentages of the total fund that may be invested in any category of authorized investment shall not apply to the Mississippi History Trust Fund. The funds in the trust fund also may be invested in obligations of the state or any political subdivision of the state.

(3) Notwithstanding any state law to the contrary, the department shall invest or cause to be invested the funds in the trust fund in a manner reasonable and appropriate to achieve the objectives of the trust fund, exercising the discretion and care of a prudent investor in similar circumstances with similar objectives. The department shall give due consideration to the risk, expected rate of return, term or maturity, diversification of total investments, liquidity and anticipated investments in and withdrawals from the trust fund. The department shall acquire all investments at prices not exceeding the prevailing market values for those securities.

(4) Any limitations set forth in this section shall be applicable only at the time of purchase and shall not require the liquidation of any investment at any time. All investments shall be marked clearly to indicate ownership by the trust fund and, to the extent possible, shall be registered in the name of the trust fund.

(5) Subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and restrictions set forth in this section, the department may sell, assign, transfer and dispose of any of the securities and investments of the trust fund if the sale, assignment or transfer has the approval of a majority of the entire Board of Trustees of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. The department may employ or contract with investment managers, evaluation services, or other such services as determined by the department to be necessary for the effective and efficient operation of the trust fund.

(6) Except as otherwise provided in this section, no trustee or employee of the department may have any direct or indirect interest in the income, gains or profits of any investments made by the department. No trustee or employee of the department may become an endorser or surety or in any manner an obligor for money loaned by or borrowed from the trust fund.

(7) The department, with the advice of the Office of the State Treasurer, may establish criteria for investment managers, mutual funds or other such entities to act as contractors or consultants to the department. The department may contract, either directly or through those contractors or consultants, to provide such services as may be a part of the comprehensive investment plan or as may be deemed necessary or proper by the department, including, but not limited to, providing consolidated billing, individual and collective record keeping and accounting, and asset purchase, control and safekeeping.

(8) Unexpended amounts remaining in the trust fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any investment earnings on the unexpended amounts in the trust fund shall be deposited to the credit of the trust fund.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-39-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 15 / Section 39-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-39-1
Status: in_force

(1) There is hereby established a Mississippi Civil Rights Museum Advisory Commission (commission) which shall be comprised of the following members:

(a) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History;

(b) The Director of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority;

(c) The President of Tougaloo College, or his or her designee;

(d) The President of Alcorn State University, or his or her designee;

(e) The President of Jackson State University, or his or her designee;

(f) The President of Mississippi Valley State University, or his or her designee;

(g) The President of Rust College, or his or her designee;

(h) The President of Mississippi University for Women, or his or her designee;

(i) The President of Delta State University, or his or her designee;

(j) The Chancellor of the University of Mississippi, or his or her designee;

(k) The President of Mississippi State University, or his or her designee;

(l) The President of the University of Southern Mississippi, or his or her designee;

(m) Two (2) representatives of the Veterans of the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement, Inc.;

(n) One (1) representative of the Fannie Lou Hamer Institute;

(o) The Director of the William F. Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation;

(p) Four (4) appointees of the Governor, one (1) from each Mississippi Congressional District;

(q) Two (2) appointees of the Lieutenant Governor from the state at large; and

(r) Two (2) appointees of the Speaker of the House of Representatives from the state at large.

(2) The chairman of the commission shall be appointed by the Governor. The commission shall meet on a date announced by the Governor and shall organize for business by adopting rules of procedure. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History shall provide administrative support to the commission and serve as fiscal agent for the commission. Members of the commission shall receive no compensation for attending meetings of the commission; however, members who are not public employees may be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred in attending meetings of the commission from any funds available for that purpose.

(3) The commission shall advise the Mississippi Department of Archives and History regarding matters relating to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-65 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 5-65
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-65
Status: in_force

The department of archives and history shall conspicuously display the penalties prescribed by Section 39-5-63 in one or more places on each container or cabinet in which the files of the state sovereignty commission are impounded.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-27 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 7-27
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-27
Status: in_force

No person shall intentionally reproduce, replicate, retouch, rework, or forge any archeological or other object which derives value from its antiquity, with intent to represent the same to be original or genuine and with intent to deceive or offer any such object for sale or exchange.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-123 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 17-123
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-123
Status: in_force

All bonds issued under Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall be legal investments for trustees and other fiduciaries, and for savings banks, trust companies and insurance companies organized under the laws of the State of Mississippi, and such bonds shall be legal securities that may be deposited with and shall be received by all public officers and bodies of this state and all municipalities and political subdivisions for the purpose of securing the deposit of public funds.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-23 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 13-23
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-23
Status: in_force

Nothing in Laws, 2001, ch. 443 shall require the dissolution of any local historic preservation commission created in Mississippi before July 1, 2001. Any local historic preservation commission created by ordinance before July 1, 2001 shall continue in existence and continue to have all of the purposes, powers and authority set out in the ordinance creating such commission. Any such previously created commission may be given the powers set forth in this chapter if a governing authority reenacts a local ordinance in conformity with this chapter.

No designation of a historic district or landmark or landmark site shall be invalidated because the designation was made under a valid ordinance before July 1, 2001.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-23-5 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 17 / Section 23-5
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-23-5
Status: in_force

(1) The Department of Finance and Administration shall proceed with the repair, renovation, furnishing and equipping of the old National Guard Armory on the Mississippi State Fairgrounds, or another structure if approved by the Department of Finance and Administration as provided in Section 17 of Chapter 589, Laws of 1999, for its use as a children's museum as soon as practicable.

(2) The Department of Finance and Administration shall proceed with the repair, renovation, furnishing and equipping of the facility at the location described in Section 39-23-3(c) as soon as practicable.

(3) The Department of Finance and Administration shall proceed with the construction, furnishing and equipping of a facility at the location described in Section 39-23-3(d) , if the location at such site is approved by the Board of Directors of the Mississippi Children's Museum and the Department of Finance and Administration, as soon as practicable.

(4) The Department of Finance and Administration shall proceed with the construction, furnishing and equipping of a facility at a location selected as provided in Section 39-23-3(e) , if the location is approved by the Board of Directors of the Mississippi Children's Museum and the Department of Finance and Administration, as soon as practicable.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-32-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 29 / Section 32-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-32-1
Status: in_force

(1) There is hereby created the Mississippi Country and Western Music Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission.” The commission may accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, to assist it to carry out its functions.

(2) For purposes of this chapter, the term “ country and western music ” shall mean country and western, blue grass and related music genre and the culture that created it.

(3) The powers, functions and duties of the commission shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) To study, deliberate and report to the Governor and the Legislature on or before January 1, 2012, on the best method to market and foster an appreciation of country and western music, to include tourism, academic study and country and western music archives, country and western music historical preservation, country and western music cultural education and the support of performing artists. Such marketing plan shall be designed to attract tourists, conferences, music performances, filmmakers and others for the purpose of economic development of all geographic areas of the state through the promotion of country and western music and the heritage and culture that produced such, and to analyze the tourism potential of the country and western music for Mississippi.

(b) To make an inventory of country and western music “assets” that make up country and western music and its culture that could be developed into a program for domestic and international tourism, and opportunities for investment.

(c) Coordination with the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, the Department of Archives and History, the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, the state institutions of higher learning, the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi, the Mississippi Arts Commission, and similar organizations to share resources and information in order to ensure a comprehensive approach to marketing the country and western music culture in Mississippi.

(d) To make recommendations regarding the establishment of, and budgeting for, a permanent Mississippi office of country and western music as an agency of state government with an executive director and appropriate staff to carry out the marketing plan developed by the commission. To the extent practical, any office shall be located at an existing public or private location which is appropriate to the country and western music culture in Mississippi, with minimal cost to the state.

(e) Coordination of the country and western music marketing plan with any existing state historic preservation programs, in order to:

(i) Identify and preserve country and western music historic properties;

(ii) Determine the eligibility of such properties for listing on the National Register;

(iii) Prepare nominations of such sites for inclusion on the National Register;

(iv) Maintenance of country and western music historical and archaeological data bases; and

(v) Evaluation of such sites for eligibility for state and federal preservation incentives.

(f) To implement and continue the development and creation of the Mississippi Country Music Trail as outlined in Section 39-33-1 , provide oversight of the trail and its infrastructure, and explore funding opportunities to support continued implementation.

(4) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority;

(b) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or his designee;

(c) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee;

(d) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, or his designee;

(e) The Chairman of the Board of the Southern Arts and Entertainment Center, or his designee;

(f) The Director of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi;

(g) The State Director of the USDA Rural Development Agency;

(h) Two (2) members of the Mississippi Senate designated by the Lieutenant Governor, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(i) Two (2) members of the Mississippi House of Representatives designated by the Speaker of the House, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(j) Two (2) members appointed by the Governor, who shall have experience in cultural affairs or tourism development in East Central Mississippi; and

(k) Four (4) members appointed by the Governor from the state at large, who shall have demonstrated a commitment to the understanding and promotion of country and western music.

(5) The Governor shall designate one (1) commission member to serve as chairman for a term concurrent with that of the Governor. The commission shall meet upon the call of the chairman not later than July 1, 2011, and shall organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for efficient operation of the commission, including officers, quorum requirements and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of their departments to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly. Meetings of the commission shall be open to the public and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(6) Members of the commission shall receive no compensation for their services.

(7) The commission shall submit a report, including any proposed legislation, to the Governor and to the Legislature before the convening of the 2012 Regular Session. The report shall include a comprehensive state plan for marketing country and western music history as specifically provided above.

(8) All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state and all subdivisions thereof shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this chapter.

(9) Any funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into a special fund which is hereby created in the State Treasury, and disbursement therefrom shall be made upon warrants by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this chapter.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-27-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 21 / Section 27-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-27-3
Status: in_force

The commission shall designate specific sites for erection of appropriate “Mississippi Blues Trail” markers to offer to tourists and targeted groups a structured tour of Mississippi blues historical sites and performance venues. The commission shall be authorized to purchase appropriate Mississippi Blues Trail markers from any of its available funds. The texts for the Mississippi Blues Trail markers shall be approved by the commission. The Mississippi Department of Transportation shall cooperate with the commission by erecting and maintaining the markers that have been approved by the commission.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-111 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 17-111
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-111
Status: in_force

The bonds issued under the provisions of Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 are general obligations of the State of Mississippi, and for the payment thereof the full faith and credit of the State of Mississippi is irrevocably pledged. If the funds appropriated by the Legislature are insufficient to pay the principal of and the interest on such bonds as they become due, then the deficiency shall be paid by the State Treasurer from any funds in the State Treasury not otherwise appropriated. All such bonds shall contain recitals on their faces substantially covering the provisions of this section.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-5 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-5
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-5
Status: in_force

(1) For property loaned to a museum on or after March 26, 1997, the museum shall do all of the following at the time of the loan:

(a) Make and retain a written record containing at least all of the following:

(i) The lender's name, address, and telephone number;

(ii) A description of the property loaned in sufficient detail for ready identification;

(iii) The beginning date of the loan; and

(iv) The expiration date of the loan.

(b) Provide the lender with a signed receipt or loan agreement containing at a minimum the record set forth in subsection (a) above.

(c) Inform the lender of the existence of this chapter and provide the lender with a copy of this chapter upon the lender's request.

(2) Regardless of the date of a loan of property, the museum shall do the following:

(a) Update its records if a lender informs the museum of a change of address or change in ownership of property loaned, or if the lender and museum negotiate a change in the duration of the loan; and

(b) Inform the lender of the existence of this chapter when renewing or updating the records of an existing loan and provide the lender with a copy of this chapter upon the lender's request.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-15 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 9 / Section 13-15
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-15
Status: in_force

The governing authority of any county or municipality, individually or jointly, may enact local legislation governing “demolition by neglect,” defined as improper maintenance or lack of maintenance of any property in a historic district, or any historic landmark or landmark site, which results in substantial deterioration of such a property and threatens its continued stability and preservation. The governing authority of any county or municipality, individually or jointly, is further authorized, in its discretion, to fine any property owner who has been found to own a property that has been determined to be threatened by demolition by neglect as defined herein. Such property owner, from the date such property is found to be in demolition by neglect by the governing authority until such repairs are made to remove the danger to the property, shall be in violation of the provisions of this section.

In addition to the powers specified in Section 21-19-11(1) , a governing authority, if the Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Archives and History concurs, may make repairs necessary to correct demolition by neglect, and the cost of such repairs shall become a lien against the property in accordance with Section 21-19-11(3) .

If a property in a historic district or a historic landmark or landmark site is demolished without review and approval by a local historic preservation commission, the governing authority may require that the owner rebuild on the site using as much of the original building material as possible, but in general following the same form. A governing authority may specify by ordinance that unauthorized demolition of a portion of a structure shall not serve as justification for a demolition permit whenever it can be shown that restoration or rehabilitation would still be feasible.

Whenever a structure or structures is demolished without review and approval by a local historic preservation commission, the governing authority may require that no permit be issued for any structure or structures proposed for the same parcel which would require a footprint larger than the footprint of the demolished structure or structures.

If a historic landmark or landmark site of statewide or national significance is demolished without review and approval by a local historic preservation commission, the governing authority may require that no permit for any construction on the parcel from which the landmark or landmark site has been removed may be issued for a period of up to twenty-four (24) months.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-51 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 5-51
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-51
Status: in_force

The complete custody, management, control and ownership of that portion of Beauvoir, (a tract of land comprising eighty-seven and one-half acres, more or less, in Harrison County, Mississippi, fronting 1020 feet, more or less, on the Gulf of Mexico, and situated approximately eight miles from the City of Gulfport, and four miles from the City of Biloxi, on “The Old Spanish Trail”, and being the same property conveyed the Mississippi division of the United Sons of Confederate Veterans on the 10th day of October, A. D. 1902, by Mrs. Varina Jefferson Davis, wife of Jefferson Davis, by deed of record in the land records of Harrison County, Mississippi, and said property being further described as the last home of Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederate States of America) lying west of a line running north and south from the southern to the northern boundary of said property and said line being equidistant between brick building on said property now used as an infirmary or hospital and the small frame building situated to the front and east of that building known as Beauvoir residence, and said small frame building being known as the office of Jefferson Davis and in which he wrote “The Rise and Fall of the Confederate Government” is hereby awarded and returned and completely relinquished by the State of Mississippi to the Mississippi division of the United Sons of Confederate Veterans, a Mississippi corporation, for the purpose of establishing and maintaining a shrine sacred to the memory of Jefferson Davis with full authority to do any and all things necessary in the discretion of the Mississippi division of the United Sons of Confederate Veterans for the establishment and maintenance of said shrine and for the beautification, repair, preservation, alteration or protection of said property herein awarded and relinquished to the Mississippi division of the United Sons of Confederate Veterans or any part thereof.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-23-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 15 / Section 23-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-23-3
Status: in_force

The Mississippi Children's Museum may be located:

(a) At the old National Guard Armory located on the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson, Mississippi, after the repair, renovation, furnishing and equipping of such facility by the Department of Finance and Administration as provided for in Sections 16 through 33 of Chapter 535, Laws of 1997, as amended;

(b) In such structure and at such location as shall be submitted by the Board of Directors of the Mississippi Children's Museum, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation, to and approved as an appropriate structure and location by the Department of Finance and Administration, after the repair, renovation, furnishing and equipping of such facility by the Department of Finance and Administration as provided in Sections 16 through 33 of Chapter 535, Laws of 1997, as amended; or

(c) In the building, formerly known as the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, on land located adjacent to the State Fairgrounds in the City of Jackson, County of Hinds, Mississippi, described more specifically as follows:

Starting at the point of intersection of the North line of Pearl Street and the West line of Jefferson Street, run Northerly along the West line of Jefferson Street a distance of 240 feet to the point of beginning, an iron pin. Continue Northerly along the West line of Jefferson Street for a distance of 257.9 feet to an iron pin; turn left through an angle of 89 degrees--57 minutes--14 seconds and run Westerly for a distance of 278.9 feet to an iron pin on the east right-of-way line of the G.M. & O. Railroad; turn left through an angle of 79 degrees--29 minutes--30 seconds and run Southerly along the East right-of-way of the G.M. & O. Railroad (Said line being a curve to the left with a radius of 2814.93 feet, chord definition) for a distance of 260.4 feet to an iron pipe; turn left through an angle of 95 degrees--12 minutes--26 seconds and run Easterly and parallel with the North line of this tract for a distance of 314.7 feet to the point of beginning.

(d) On certain real property owned by the State of Mississippi and held by the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, more particularly described as follows:

39 acres lying in the northeast corner of the intersection of Mississippi 25 and Interstate 55.

(e) At any location in Hinds County as shall be submitted by the Board of Directors of the Mississippi Children's Museum, a Mississippi nonprofit corporation, to the Department of Finance and Administration and approved as an appropriate location by the Department of Finance and Administration.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 7-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-3
Status: in_force

It is hereby declared to be the public policy and in the public interest of the State of Mississippi to locate, protect, and preserve all sites, objects, buildings, shipwrecks, and locations of historical, archaeological, or architectural significance, including, but not limited to historically or architecturally significant buildings, structures relating to significant engineering accomplishments, prehistoric and historical American Indian or aboriginal campsites, dwellings, and habitation sites, archaeological sites of every character, treasure imbedded in the earth, sunken or abandoned ships and wrecks of the sea or any part or the contents thereof, maps, records, documents, books, artifacts, and implements of culture in any way related to the inhabitants, prehistory, history, natural history, government, or culture in, on or under any of the lands, tidelands, submerged lands, and bed of the sea within the jurisdiction of the State of Mississippi.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-9 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 13-9
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-9
Status: in_force

The governing authority of any county or municipality, individually or jointly, is authorized to make appropriations to a historic preservation commission, in any amount that it may determine necessary for the expenses of the operation of such commission. A governing authority may apply to participate in the Certified Local Government Program of the National Park Service, which is administered in Mississippi by the Department of Archives and History and may on behalf of a local historic preservation commission apply for funding from the Department of Archives and History to supplement funds available from the governing authority itself. Said governing authorities shall not be empowered to acquire by eminent domain any historic preservation properties unless such properties are needed for governmental purposes other than historic preservation.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-25-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 9 / Section 25-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-25-3
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the Department of Finance and Administration may renegotiate any and all costs included in the lease provided for by Section 39-25-1 .
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-25-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 25-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-25-3
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, the Department of Finance and Administration may renegotiate any and all costs included in the lease provided for by Section 39-25-1 .
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-21-7 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 17 / Section 21-7
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-21-7
Status: in_force

Upon completion of the construction, furnishing and equipping of the facility to house the Mississippi Craft Center as provided for in this chapter, the Department of Finance and Administration shall enter into a lease, sublease or operating agreement for a period not exceeding twenty (20) years, with The Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi, Inc. whereunder The Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi, Inc., shall assume exclusive responsibilities for operating the facility. The benefit to Mississippi from the operation of such lease, sublease or operating agreement shall be considered as sufficient consideration. The lease, sublease or operating agreement shall be executed for a nominal fee and it shall be presumed that such lease shall not amount to a donation of state property.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 7-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-1
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be known, and may be cited, as the “Antiquities Law of Mississippi.”
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-13 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 7-13
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-13
Status: in_force

Any site located upon private lands which is determined by majority vote of the board to be of sufficient archaeological, historical or architectural significance may be designated by the board as a Mississippi landmark. It is specifically provided, however, that no such site shall be so designated upon private land without the written consent of the landowner or landowners in recordable form sufficiently describing the site so that it may be located. Upon such designation the consent of the landowner shall be recorded in the deed records of the county in which the land is located. Any such site upon private land shall be marked by at least one (1) marker, approved by the board, bearing the words “Mississippi Landmark” for each five (5) acres of area.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-7 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 9 / Section 13-7
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-7
Status: in_force

No historic district or districts shall be designated until the Mississippi Department of Archives and History has been notified by certified letter by the governing authority of a municipality or county and invited to make recommendations concerning the proposed district boundaries. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History may comment by letter, telephone, e-mail or in person through designated staff. The boundary of a historic district or landmark or landmark site may follow the formal legal description of a tax parcel or parcels or, because of historical justification or topographical conditions, may deviate from such formal legal descriptions. When a boundary deviates from formal legal descriptions, there must be written justification for such a deviation in any local designating ordinance.

When a municipality or county has already created by ordinance a local historic preservation commission, that commission shall jointly notify both the governing authority of the municipality or county and the Mississippi Department of Archives and History that a historic district is being proposed and recommended and shall provide to the Mississippi Department of Archives and History the dates of the next two (2) public meetings of the governing authority at which action on the designation of such a district might be taken so that the Mississippi Department of Archives and History may comment in a timely manner. Failure of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History to comment by the date of the second such meeting shall relieve the municipality or county of any responsibility for awaiting and responding to such analysis, and the body may at any time thereafter take any necessary action to create the proposed historic district.

When a municipality or county has not previously created by ordinance a local historic preservation commission and the governing authority proposes to create such a commission, the governing authority must give the Mississippi Department of Archives and History an opportunity to comment on the proposed provisions for such an ordinance, unless such ordinance is substantially identical to any model local historic preservation ordinance which has been recommended and promulgated by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Whenever the Mississippi Department of Archives and History is invited to comment on the terms of a proposed local historic preservation ordinance, failure of the department to comment within forty-five (45) days after a written request for comments has been received shall relieve the governing authority of any responsibility to wait further for such comments.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-21 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 19-21
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-21
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter, a lender and museum can bind themselves to different loan provisions by written contract.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-19 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 19-19
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-19
Status: in_force

(1) Unless there is a written agreement between the museum and the lender to the contrary, a museum may apply conservation measures to property on loan to the museum without the lender's or claimant's permission if immediate action is required to protect the property on loan or other property in the custody of the museum or if the property on loan is a hazard to the health and safety of the public or the museum staff and if any of the following apply:

(a) The museum is unable to reach the lender or claimant at the lender's or claimant's last known address or phone number, and if action is to be taken within more than three (3) days, but less than one (1) week from the time the museum determined action was necessary;

(b) The museum is unable to reach the lender or claimant at the lender's or claimant's last known phone number before taking action if the action is to be taken within three (3) days or less from the time the museum determined action was necessary; or

(c) The lender or claimant does not respond or will not agree to the protective measures the museum recommends, yet is unwilling or unable to terminate the loan and retrieve the property.

(2) If a museum applies conservation measures to property as provided by this section, or with the agreement of the lender and claimants, unless the agreement provides otherwise, the museum:

(a) Has a lien on the property and on the proceeds of any disposition of the property for the costs incurred by the museum; and

(b) Is not liable for injury to or loss of the property if the museum:

(i) Had a reasonable belief at the time the action was taken that the action was necessary to protect the property on loan or other property in the custody of the museum, or that the property on loan was a hazard to the health and safety of the public or the museum staff; and

(ii) Exercised reasonable care in the choice and application of conservation measures.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-111 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 5-111
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-111
Status: in_force

The commission shall designate specific sites for erection of appropriate markers along Hernando de Soto's journey of one hundred eighty-seven (187) days through Mississippi from the Tombigbee River basin on our state's eastern boundary, westward to the place of discovery of the Mississippi River on May 8, 1541.

The commission shall be authorized to purchase appropriate markers from any of its available funds. The texts for the De Soto Trail markers shall be approved by the Department of Archives and History. The State Highway Department shall cooperate with the commission and Department of Archives and History by erecting and maintaining the markers that have been approved by the commission.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-127 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 17-127
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-127
Status: in_force

Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall be deemed to be full and complete authority for the exercise of the powers granted, but Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall not be deemed to repeal or to be in derogation of any existing law of this state.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-11 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 17 / Section 19-11
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-19-11
Status: in_force

From and after March 26, 1997, a museum acquires title to unclaimed property, under any of the following circumstances:

(a) If a lender of property does not contact the museum in writing within ninety (90) days after the date notice was received for property for which a museum provides actual notice to a lender in accordance to Section 39-19-9 and for which a signed receipt has been received.

(b) If a lender or anyone claiming a legal interest in that property does not contact the museum in writing within ninety (90) days after the date of the second publication, and notice by publication has been made pursuant to Section 39-19-9 .
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-121 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 5-121
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-5-121
Status: in_force

The Mississippi Department of Archives and History is authorized to secure, preserve, restore, develop, interpret, operate and maintain the historic Shaifer House and accompanying land located on the Port Gibson Battlefield, subject to the appropriation of adequate funds by the Legislature.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-25-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 25-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-25-1
Status: in_force

(1) There is established the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Center (“Center”) to be housed in a state-owned facility or facilities located within the corporate limits of Meridian, Mississippi. The purpose of the Center shall be to provide an educational, entertaining and interactive facility to capture the essence of Mississippi's legacy in the arts and celebrate the richness and depth of that legacy and the Mississippians who created it with the world; and to provide family-oriented attractions in the delivery of an educational experience to citizens of, and visitors to, Mississippi.

(2) The Center shall be a state-of-the-art facility which may include, but not be limited to, MAEC exhibits, a state-sanctioned Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Hall of Fame inducting icons in all genres of arts and entertainment, Walk of Fame, auditorium, outdoor performance plaza, and broadcast/recording facility. The Center will provide a vast educational resource for individuals and educators offering unparalleled insight into the lives and stories of Mississippi arts and entertainment treasures through seminars, workshops and demonstrations by guest professionals and/or amateur artists. The Center may promote, advertise and market its efforts under the name of the Center itself, as “the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience,” or in such other manner as calculated to best further the goals and objectives of the Center.

(3) The duties and objectives of the Center shall be:

(a) To stimulate and encourage throughout the state the study and presentation of the performing, visual, and literary arts and public interest and participation therein;

(b) To encourage participation in, appreciation of, and education in the arts to meet the legitimate needs and aspirations of persons in all parts of the state;

(c) To take such steps as may be necessary and appropriate to encourage public interest in the cultural heritage of Mississippi and the south to expand the state's cultural resources, and to promote the use of art in state government's activities and facilities; and

(d) To encourage excellence and assist freedom of artistic expression essential for the well-being of the arts.

(4) The Department of Finance and Administration shall have the authority to lease or contract with, for a period not to exceed fifty (50) years, a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose for incorporation is the support, improvement, administration and operation of the Center as provided for in subsections (1) and (2) of this section. The Department of Finance and Administration may establish the terms of the agreement. The benefit to Mississippi from the operation of this lease or contractual agreement shall be considered a sufficient consideration. The lease or contract shall require the nonprofit corporation to pay for any and all utility costs incurred by the Center and, therefore, the construction of the Center shall not be subject to the energy performance requirements for major facility projects contained in Section 31-11-35 . The nonprofit corporation is authorized to hold public hearings, to enter into contracts within the limit of funds available therefor, with individuals, organizations and institutions for services furthering the objectives of the Center's programs; to enter into contracts, within the limit of funds available therefor, with local and regional associations for cooperative endeavors furthering the objectives of the Center's programs; to make and sign any agreements and to do and perform any acts that may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.

(5) The Department of Finance and Administration may enter into any agreement with a nonprofit corporation necessary for the construction, operation and administration of the Center and may establish the terms of the agreement. For the construction, operation and administration of the Center, such nonprofit corporation may receive and expend any funds made available in any manner by public or private sources and may receive contributions and donations of land or other property and other forms of financial assistance and property, equipment, materials or manpower from persons, foundations, trust funds, corporations, organizations, and other public or private sources to be expended and used in carrying out the mission of the Center. Any real property purchased or received by donation for the Center shall be titled in the name of the State of Mississippi for the benefit and use of the Department of Finance and Administration.

(6) For any lease or contractual arrangement to which the Department of Finance and Administration and a nonprofit corporation are a party to as provided in subsection (5), the nonprofit corporation shall, along with the possessory and leasehold interests and/or real and personal property of the corporation, be exempt from all ad valorem taxation, including, but not limited to, school, city and county ad valorem taxes, for the term or period of time stated in the lease or contractual arrangement.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-3 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 7-3
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-7-3
Status: in_force

It is hereby declared to be the public policy and in the public interest of the State of Mississippi to locate, protect, and preserve all sites, objects, buildings, shipwrecks, and locations of historical, archaeological, or architectural significance, including, but not limited to historically or architecturally significant buildings, structures relating to significant engineering accomplishments, prehistoric and historical American Indian or aboriginal campsites, dwellings, and habitation sites, archaeological sites of every character, treasure imbedded in the earth, sunken or abandoned ships and wrecks of the sea or any part or the contents thereof, maps, records, documents, books, artifacts, and implements of culture in any way related to the inhabitants, prehistory, history, natural history, government, or culture in, on or under any of the lands, tidelands, submerged lands, and bed of the sea within the jurisdiction of the State of Mississippi.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-5 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 3-5
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-3-5
Status: in_force

(1) Any county which supports a public library or public library system may, by order of the board of supervisors of such county, in their discretion, levy a four (4) mill tax on all taxable property within the county to be used for the support, upkeep and maintenance of any public library or public library system located in said county.

(2) The taxes levied under this section shall be excluded from the revenue increase limitation imposed pursuant to Section 27-39-321 .

(3) In addition to the levy herein authorized, the board of supervisors of any county may, in their discretion, make contributions from any available funds for the support, upkeep and maintenance of any public library or public library system located in such county.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-5 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 7 / Section 13-5
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-13-5
Status: in_force

Before it may designate one or more historic districts, or simultaneously with such designation, the governing body of any county or municipality, individually or jointly, shall establish a historic preservation commission to preserve, promote and develop the historical resources of such county or municipality in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. The historic preservation commission shall have the following powers:

(a) The commission shall conduct or cause to be conducted a continuing study and survey of resources within the county or municipality or combination thereof.

(b) The commission shall recommend to the county or municipality or combination thereof the adoption of ordinances designating historic districts, landmarks and landmark sites.

(c) The commission may recommend that the county or municipality or combination thereof recognize subdistricts within any historic district in order that the commission may adopt specific guidelines for the regulation of properties within such a subdistrict.

(d) The commission shall review applications proposing construction, alteration, demolition or relocation of any resource or subdivision of tax parcels designated as landmarks or landmark sites contained within a historic district. The document granting such an application shall be known as a certificate of appropriateness. No commission may deny a certificate of appropriateness for demolition if denial of such a certificate would cause unreasonable economic hardship to an owner.

(e) The commission shall use as a basis for its decisions on applications for certificates of appropriateness the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings as well as any more specific design review guidelines adopted by the commission or the governing authority of the county or municipality or combination thereof.

(f) The commission, at the discretion of the governing authority, may grant or deny the certificates of appropriateness in whole or in part and may grant certificates of appropriateness contingent upon the acceptance by the applicant of specified conditions.

(g) The commission shall not consider interior arrangements of buildings and structures except that it may when requested by the Department of Archives and History to advise the department on questions relating to the interiors of publicly owned historic buildings. Interior arrangements not to be considered by the commission shall include floor plans, architectural details and finishes, but the commission may consider interior structural elements visible through doors or windows if they become deteriorated because of demolition by neglect. Such interior structural elements may include walls, floors and ceilings, as well as other supporting elements of a composite structure.

(h) The commission may, by local ordinance, review proposed governmental actions affecting governmentally owned structures included within local historic districts, located on landmark sites or designated as landmarks.

(i) The commission, subject to the consent of and requirements of the county or municipality or combination thereof, may apply for, receive, hold and spend funds from private and public sources in addition to appropriations made by the county or municipality or combination thereof for the purpose of carrying out the duties of the commission.

(j) The commission, subject to the consent of and the requirements of the county or municipality or combination thereof, may employ such staff or contract with technical experts or other persons as may be required for the performance of its duties and may obtain the equipment, supplies and other materials necessary for its effective operation.

(k) The commission, solely in the performance of its official duties and only at reasonable times, may enter upon private land for the examination or survey thereof. No member, employee or agent of the commission shall enter any private dwelling or structure without the express consent of the owner of record or occupant thereof.

(l) A municipality, by ordinance, may specify that color changes are outside the jurisdiction of the commission.

Such commission shall consist of not fewer than five (5) nor more than nine (9) residents of the county or municipality, or combination thereof, establishing the commission who shall be appointed by the governing authority with due regard to proper representation in such fields as history, architecture, urban planning, archaeology and law. All members of the commission shall serve at the will and pleasure of the governing authority appointing them and shall serve staggered terms. The precise method of appointment, and general terms of appointment, shall be specified in a local ordinance. If a documented good faith effort has been made unsuccessfully by the governing authority to locate residents of the county or municipality to serve on the commission, the governing authority may appoint individuals who own property within the boundary of the county or municipality, or both, or are in the service of an employer located within the boundary of the county or municipality, or both. The commission annually shall elect from its membership a chairman and a vice chairman and may employ such qualified staff personnel and counsel as it deems necessary. The commission shall retain as evidence of its discussions and decisions a complete set of minutes and may additionally create tape recordings or transcripts of its meetings. In addition, the commission shall retain copies of all applications filed with it including supporting documentation that may be added during open public meetings to supplement an original application or comment thereon. The commission shall advise the governing authority as to the designation of historic districts and the designation of historic landmarks and landmark sites. If any governing authority, in its discretion, chooses to divide the duties and responsibilities of the commission into no more than two (2) commissions or boards, each commission or board shall be established as directed in this section.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-27-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 25 / Section 27-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-27-1
Status: in_force

(1) There is created the Mississippi Blues Commission, hereinafter referred to as the “commission.” The commission may accept and expend grants and private donations from any source, including federal, state, public and private entities, to assist it to carry out its functions.

(2) For purposes of this chapter, the term “ blues ” shall mean African-American roots music and the culture that created it.

(3) The powers, functions and duties of the commission shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following:

(a) To study, deliberate and report to the Governor and the Legislature on the best method or plan to market and foster an appreciation of the blues, to include tourism, academic study and blues archives, blues historical preservation, blues cultural education and the support of performing artists. The marketing plan shall be designed to attract tourists, conferences, music performances, filmmakers and others for the purpose of economic development of all geographic areas of the state, through the promotion of the blues and the heritage and culture that produced the blues, and to analyze the tourism potential of the blues for Mississippi.

(b) To make an inventory of blues “assets” that make up the blues and blues culture that could be developed into a program for domestic and international tourism, and opportunities for investment.

(c) To establish a statewide Mississippi “Blues Trail” infrastructure to offer to tourists and targeted groups a structured tour of Mississippi blues historical sites and performance venues.

(d) To coordinate with the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority, the Department of Archives and History, the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, the State Institutions of Higher Learning, the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi, the University Center for Economic Development at Mississippi Valley State University, the Delta Center for Culture and Learning at Delta State University, the Delta Blues Museum, the Delta Music Institute, the Mississippi Arts Commission and similar organizations in the sharing of resources and information in order to ensure a comprehensive approach to marketing the blues and blues culture in Mississippi.

(e) To make recommendations regarding the establishment of, and budgeting for, a permanent Mississippi Office of the Blues as an agency of state government with an executive director and appropriate staff to carry out the marketing plan developed by the commission. To the extent practical, any office shall be located at an existing public or private location which is appropriate to the blues or blues culture in Mississippi, with minimal cost to the state.

(f) To coordinate the blues marketing plan with any existing state historic preservation programs, in order to:

(i) Identify and preserve blues historic properties or sites;

(ii) Determine the eligibility of those properties or sites for listing on the National Register;

(iii) Prepare nominations of those properties or sites for inclusion on the National Register;

(iv) Maintain blues historical and archaeological data bases; and

(v) Evaluate those properties and sites for eligibility for state and federal preservation incentives.

(g) To raise and expend grant funds to provide assistance to any blues musicians in need.

(4) The commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) The Director of the Division of Tourism of the Mississippi Development Authority;

(b) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, or his designee;

(c) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Arts Commission, or his designee;

(d) The Executive Director of the Mississippi Educational Television Authority, or his designee;

(e) The Director of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi;

(f) Until April 10, 2008, the Director of the University Center for Economic Development at Mississippi Valley State University, and after April 10, 2008, a person designated by the President of Mississippi Valley State University;

(g) The Director of the Delta Center for Culture and Learning at Delta State University;

(h) The President of the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center;

(i) The State Director of the USDA Rural Development Agency;

(j) Two (2) members of the Mississippi Senate designated by the Lieutenant Governor, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(k) Two (2) members of the Mississippi House of Representatives designated by the Speaker of the House, who shall serve on a nonvoting basis;

(l) Two (2) members appointed by the Governor, who shall have experience in cultural affairs or tourism development in the Mississippi Delta; and

(m) Four (4) members appointed by the Governor from the state at large, who shall have demonstrated a commitment to the understanding and promotion of the blues.

(5) The Governor shall designate one (1) commission member to serve as chairman for a term concurrent with that of the Governor. The commission shall meet upon the call of the chairman not later than August 1, 2004, and shall organize for business by adopting internal organizational procedures necessary for efficient operation of the commission, including officers, quorum requirements and policies for any commission staff. Each member of the commission shall designate necessary staff of his or her respective agency, department, university or business entity, as the case may be, to provide administrative support to assist the commission in performing its duties and responsibilities. The commission shall meet and conduct business at least quarterly each year. Meetings of the commission shall be open to the public and opportunity for public comment shall be made available.

(6) Members of the commission shall receive no compensation for their services.

(7) The commission shall submit a report, including any proposed legislation, to the Governor and to the Legislature before the convening of the 2009 Regular Session. The report shall include a comprehensive state plan for marketing the blues as specifically provided above.

(8) All departments, boards, agencies, officers and institutions of the state, and all subdivisions thereof, shall cooperate with the commission in carrying out its purposes under this chapter.

(9) Any funds or donations received by the commission shall be deposited into a special fund which is created in the State Treasury. The fund shall be maintained by the State Treasurer as a special fund, separate and apart from the General Fund of the state. Unexpended amounts remaining in the special fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any interest earned or investment earnings on amounts in the fund shall be deposited to the credit of the special fund.

Monies in the fund shall be expended by the Department of Finance and Administration after receipt of requisitions submitted by the appropriate person designated by the commission. Monies in the special fund may be used by the commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this chapter.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-11-7 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 5 / Section 11-7
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-11-7
Status: in_force

The duties and objectives of the commission shall be:

(1) To stimulate and encourage throughout the state the study and presentation of the performing, visual, and literary arts and public interest and participation therein;

(2) To encourage participation in, appreciation of, and education in the arts to meet the legitimate needs and aspirations of persons in all parts of the state;

(3) To take such steps as may be necessary and appropriate, to encourage public interest in the cultural heritage of Mississippi, to expand the state's cultural resources, and to promote the use of art in the state government's activities and facilities; and

(4) To encourage excellence and assist freedom of artistic expression essential for the well-being of the arts.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-105 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 1 / Section 17-105
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-17-105
Status: in_force

The bonds authorized under Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 shall be signed by the Chairman of the State Bond Commission, or by his facsimile signature, and the official seal of the State Bond Commission shall be affixed thereto, attested by the Secretary of the State Bond Commission. The interest coupons, if any, to be attached to such bonds may be executed by the facsimile signatures of such officers. Whenever any such bonds shall have been signed by the officials designated to sign the bonds who were in office at the time of such signing but who may have ceased to be such officers before the sale and delivery of such bonds, or who may not have been in office on the date such bonds may bear, the signatures of such officers upon such bonds and coupons shall nevertheless be valid and sufficient for all purposes and have the same effect as if the person so officially signing such bonds had remained in office until their delivery to the purchaser, or had been in office on the date such bonds may bear. However, notwithstanding anything in Sections 39-17-101 through 39-17-127 to the contrary, such bonds may be issued as provided in the Registered Bond Act of the State of Mississippi.
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-43-1 — MS Code / Title 39 / Chapter 3 / Section 43-1
Miss. Code Ann. § 39-43-1
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, the following terms shall have the meaning ascribed in this subsection, unless context of use clearly requires otherwise:

(a) “ Department ” means the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services.

(b) “ Eligible foster parent ” means an individual licensed by the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services to operate a foster home to provide residential care to a child in the department's custody.

(c) “ Museum ” means a public agency or institution located in this state and organized on a permanent basis for essentially educational or aesthetic purposes, which utilizes a professional staff, owns or utilizes tangible objects, cares for them, and exhibits them to the public on a regular basis.

(d) “ Eligible child agency ” means a child-placing agency or a residential child-caring agency licensed by the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services as set forth in Section 43-15-107 .

(2) An eligible foster parent, including his or her spouse, foster children, biological children or any other member of his or her direct household, or the staff of an eligible child agency together with the children placed with the agency, as applicable, shall be allowed free admission to any museum in this state upon showing the appropriate license/certificate issued by the department.