reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › IN GENERAL (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-33) › Section 49-2-33 - DEQ Water, Land and Air Contamination Projects Fund created; funding sources; purpose

(1)
There is created in the State Treasury a special fund to be designated as the "DEQ Water, Land and Air Contamination Projects Fund," which shall consist of funds transferred from the Attorney General Contingent Fund under the provisions of subsection (2) of this section, any other funds made available by the Legislature in any manner and funds from any other source designated for deposit into the fund. Monies in the fund shall be used by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, upon appropriation by the Legislature, for the purpose of assessment, remediation, operation and maintenance, cost-sharing, oversight and administration of water, land and air contamination projects within the State of Mississippi pursuant to the 2020 settlement in the case of
The State of Mississippi ex rel. Lynn Fitch, Attorney General vs. EnPro, Inc., et.al.;
Cause No. CV-2017-19-JMY2. Unexpended amounts remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year shall not lapse into the State General Fund, and any investment earnings or interest earned on amounts in the fund shall be deposited to the credit of the fund.
(2)
During fiscal year 2022, the State Fiscal Officer shall transfer the sum of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) from the Attorney General Contingent Fund to the DEQ Water, Land and Air Contamination Projects Fund created in subsection (1) of this section.
Added by Laws, 2021, ch. 472, HB 109,§ 14, eff. 4/19/2021.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › ENERGY RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION [Repealed] (§ 49-2-41) › Section 49-2-41 - through 49-2-63 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1980, ch. 548, § 19, eff. 5/26/1980.
Laws, 1979, ch. 471, §§ 1-14.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › HOME-GENERATED MEDICAL SHARPS DISPOSAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (§§ 49-2-81 — 49-2-87) › Section 49-2-81 - Short title

Sections
49-2-81
through
49-2-87
shall be known and may be cited as the Home-Generated Medical Sharps Disposal Act.
Laws, 2008, ch. 341, § 1, eff. 7/1/2008.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › HOME-GENERATED MEDICAL SHARPS DISPOSAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (§§ 49-2-81 — 49-2-87) › Section 49-2-83 - Legislative findings

The Legislature finds that:
(a)
Each year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, more than three billion medical sharps are used by individuals in their homes.
(b)
Typically, these medical sharps are put into the household trash, where they become a health hazard for other members of the household and for sanitation workers.
(c)
The hazard includes not only the discomfort of a needle-stick injury, but also the risk of contracting an infectious disease from a contaminated medical sharp.
(d)
Regulating the disposal of home-generated medical sharps will further the public health and safety of Mississippi residents.
Laws, 2008, ch. 341, § 2, eff. 7/1/2008.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › HOME-GENERATED MEDICAL SHARPS DISPOSAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (§§ 49-2-81 — 49-2-87) › Section 49-2-85 - Definitions

The following words and phrases when used in Sections
49-2-81
through
49-2-87
shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
(a)
"Department" means the Department of Environmental Quality.
(b)
"Home-generated medical sharp" means a sharp used by an individual at home.
(c)
"Medical sharp" means a needle, syringe, lancet or other sharp object used to penetrate the skin for medical testing or for delivery of medication.
Laws, 2008, ch. 341, § 3, eff. 7/1/2008.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › HOME-GENERATED MEDICAL SHARPS DISPOSAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (§§ 49-2-81 — 49-2-87) › Section 49-2-87 - Development and implementation of home-generated medical sharps disposal education program

(1)
The department shall develop and implement a statewide educational program designed to inform the public about safe disposal of home-generated medical sharps and to promote the public's safe disposal of home-generated medical sharps.
(2)
The department shall develop the program no later than July 1, 2009, and shall implement the program no later than January 1, 2010.
Laws, 2008, ch. 341, § 4, eff. 7/1/2008.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › 2022 - TATE COUNTY - EROSION CONTROL AND REPAIR FUND (§ 49-2-91) › Section 49-2-91 - 2022 Tate County - Erosion Control and Repair Fund created; use of monies

(a)
(i)
A special fund, to be designated as the "2022 Tate County - Erosion Control and Repair Fund," is created within the State Treasury. The fund shall be maintained by the State Treasurer as a separate and special fund, separate and apart from the General Fund of the state. Unexpended amounts remaining in the 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 into such fund.
(ii)
Monies deposited into the fund shall be disbursed, in the discretion of the Department of Environmental Quality, to assist Tate County, Mississippi, in paying costs associated with ditch erosion control, repair and rehabilitation along and near the project described in Section
27-104-301(2)(mm)
, Mississippi Code of 1972, and on property located along and near such project, including, but not limited to, creation of detention areas along ditches, replacement of drainage structures along ditches, rock stabilization at downstream ends of ditches and reestablishing vegetative cover on all disturbed areas.
(b)
Amounts deposited into such special fund shall be disbursed to pay the costs of the projects described in paragraph (a) of this section.
Added by Laws, 2022, ch. 510, HB 1353,§ 24, eff. 7/1/2022.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › CERTIFIED ELECTRONIC RECYCLERS (§§ 49-2-101 — 49-2-103) › Section 49-2-101 - Definitions

As used in Sections
49-2-101
and
49-2-103
:
(a)
"Electronics" means a personal computer, computer component, audio player, videocassette player, facsimile machine, copy machine, cellular telephone, wireless paging device, or any electronic item containing an intact or broken cathode-ray tube. An electronic item containing a cathode-ray tube includes a television, computer monitor, or any other cathode-ray tube monitor or display device.
(b)
"Recycler" means a person who uses, reuses or reclaims obsolete electronic equipment and associated materials.
Added by Laws, 2013, ch. 351, SB 2754, 1, eff. 7/1/2013.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 2 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (§§ 49-2-1 — 49-2-131) › CERTIFIED ELECTRONIC RECYCLERS (§§ 49-2-101 — 49-2-103) › Section 49-2-103 - Program to encourage certification of electronic recyclers; directory of certified electronic recyclers; compliance; applicability

(1)
The Department of Environmental Quality shall develop a program to encourage all electronic recyclers to become certified by demonstrating to an accredited, independent third-party auditor that they meet specific standards to safely recycle and manage electronic equipment.
(2)
The department shall maintain a directory of recyclers meeting the accredited certification standards of Responsible Recycling Practices (R2) and the e-Stewards Standards and any recyclers who have been certified by an accredited, independent certification auditor listed by the ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board (ANAB) as an organization that certifies recyclers to available recycling standards.
(3)
State agencies shall use a certified recycler on the directory for the disposal of agency electronics.
(4)
The Department of Environmental Quality and state agencies shall comply with this section no later than July 1, 2014.
(5)
This section does not apply to the donation of electronics to public schools, state agencies, local governments or nonprofit organizations.
Added by Laws, 2013, ch. 351, SB 2754, 2, eff. 7/1/2013.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-1 - Short title

This chapter may be cited as the "Fisheries and Wildlife Management Law of 1970".
Codes, 1942, § 5840-51; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 1, eff. 4/3/1970.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-3 - Purpose of chapter

The Legislature hereby finds and declares:
(a)
That the economic progress of Mississippi depends in large measure upon the development and use of the natural resources of the state;
(b)
That the fish and game animals indigenous to the state constitute a vital segment of the natural resources available in Mississippi;
(c)
That Mississippi has approximately five million (5,000,000) acres of idle agricultural land in the state which are producing mainly broomsedge and brush. Much of this land is potentially excellent game range, yet it is producing almost no significant income for the landowners. These idle acres, plus seventeen million (17,000,000) acres of forest lands properly managed for game and fish products, can contribute substantially to the total economic development of Mississippi;
(d)
That there is a tremendous and ever growing need for additional knowledge of fish cultural techniques and the proper management of our environment so that not only fish and game may be increased but that Mississippi may become a more pleasant and a more prosperous state to reside in;
(e)
That this chapter is specifically designed to establish a program for the discovery and dissemination of knowledge concerning the management and proper utilization of fish and game resources in Mississippi.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-52; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 2, eff. 4/3/1970.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-5 - Establishment of laboratory

The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning is hereby authorized and directed to establish a fisheries and wildlife laboratory at Mississippi State University under the direction of the president and such other administrative authorities within the university as such board of trustees may determine.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-53; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 3, eff. 4/3/1970.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-7 - Maintenance of laboratory

The board of trustees of state institutions of higher learning shall provide for such laboratory such buildings, equipment, personnel, supplies and service as it shall determine to be necessary for the proper operation and maintenance of such laboratory, having due regard for the contributory facilities and programs already existing at Mississippi State University.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-54; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 4, eff. 4/3/1970.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-9 - Functions

It shall be the function of the laboratory to conduct a program of research in the culture of fish, the diagnosis and treatment of fish and game animal diseases and the physiology and nutrition of fish and game animals, and to disseminate its findings to the public and to all individuals and agencies for whom such knowledge will be helpful and useful.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-55; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 5, eff. 4/3/1970.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-11 - Acceptance of gifts, grants, and contributions

In addition to the appropriations made by the Mississippi Legislature for the operation and support of the laboratory, the board of trustees of state institutions of higher learning is authorized and empowered to receive contributions, donations, gifts and grants of money and/or property, equipment, materials or manpower from persons, foundations, trust funds, corporations, organizations, the federal government or any subdivision thereof, the state government or any subdivision thereof, to be expended by the board in carrying out the purposes and objectives of this chapter.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-56; Laws, 1970, ch, 276, § 6, eff. 4/3/1970.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-13 - Cooperation with state agencies

The laboratory personnel shall cooperate fully with the colleges and universities of the state, the Mississippi State Department of Agriculture and Commerce, and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks in an effort to fully effectuate the purpose of this chapter. All state agencies and departments are hereby authorized and directed to give the laboratory and its personnel their full cooperation in every possible manner.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-57; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 7; Laws, 2000, ch. 516, § 22, eff. 4/30/2000.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-15 - Work for other organizations

The laboratory personnel may, at their discretion, and subject to the approval of the proper administrative authorities at Mississippi State University, do research on a contract or project basis for industries, governmental agencies, public or private organizations or corporations, or any others, at a price and on a basis to be determined by the aforesaid personnel. The proceeds derived from such research projects shall be deposited to a special fund in the treasury of the state of Mississippi to be known as the "fisheries and wildlife laboratory fund," to be disbursed and used pursuant to appropriation approved by the Legislature as provided by law.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-58; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 8; Laws, 1984, ch. 488, § 231, eff. 7/1/1984.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 3 - FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH (§§ 49-3-1 — 49-3-17) › Section 49-3-17 - "Fish" defined; effect of chapter on authority of other agencies

The word "fish" as appears in this chapter shall mean "fresh water fish". The provisions of this chapter shall not amend, repeal or diminish the authority heretofore vested in the Mississippi Commission on Marine Resources or the work and function of the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory.
Codes, 1942, § 5840-59; Laws, 1970, ch. 276, § 9; Laws, 1994, ch. 578, § 57, eff. 7/1/1994.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-1 - Declaration of purpose

It is hereby declared to be the intent of the Legislature to conserve, manage, develop and protect our natural resources and wildlife for the benefit of this and succeeding generations by reorganizing the natural resource and wildlife conservation functions of state government into the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks thereby providing more effective organizations through which the methods of conserving, managing, developing and protecting our natural resources and wildlife can be analyzed, coordinated and implemented.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 1; Laws, 2000, ch. 516, § 23, eff. 4/30/2000.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-3 - Definitions

For the purposes of this chapter, the following words shall have the meanings ascribed herein, unless the context otherwise requires:
(a)
"Department" means the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.
(b)
"Commission" means the Mississippi Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.
(c)
"Executive director" means the chief officer of the department.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 11; Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 114; Laws, 1990, ch. 522, § 31; Laws, 1996, ch. 412, § 2, eff. 3/21/1996.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-5 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1989, ch. 544, § 120, eff. 7/1/1989.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 12; Laws, 1980, ch. 560, § 23; Laws, 1988, ch. 325.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-6 - Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks; organization of department; executive director; removal for cause; office heads; merit promotion system for certain enforcement officers

(1)
There is hereby created the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, whose principal office shall be located in Jackson, Mississippi.
(2)
The department shall be headed by an executive director who shall be appointed by the Governor. The commission shall submit to the Governor three (3) qualified nominees for the position of executive director. The Governor shall appoint the executive director from the list of qualified nominees submitted with the advice and consent of the Senate. The executive director shall serve for a term of four (4) years, consistent with the provisions of Section
7-1-35
, Mississippi Code of 1972. The executive director may assign those powers and duties as deemed appropriate to carry out the department's lawful functions. Upon recommendation by the Governor to the commission, the executive director may be removed from office only by both a majority vote of the membership of the commission and the Governor's approval of the removal. To remove the executive director the commission must determine on sound evidence that there is good cause for removal such as willful dereliction in carrying out the duties of executive director, obvious malfeasance in his actions as executive director or conviction of any criminal act. After the determination is made by the commission that the executive director should be removed from office, the commission shall notify the Governor of its determination and the Governor must approve that determination before the executive director is actually removed from office.
(3)
The executive director shall appoint heads, who will serve at the pleasure of the executive director.
(4)
The executive director shall have the authority to organize the department as deemed appropriate to carry out the responsibilities of the department. The organizational charts of the department shall be presented annually with the budget request of the Governor for review by the Legislature.
(5)
The executive director shall develop and implement a merit promotion system for all sworn law enforcement officers. Promotion to higher rank shall be based on an individual's merit and length of service. The executive director shall implement the merit promotion system before July 1, 1995.
Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 108; Laws, 1990, ch. 522, § 32; Laws, 1993, ch. 574, § 1; Laws, 1994, ch. 528, § 1; Laws, 1994, ch. 628, § 1; Laws, 1996, ch. 412, § 1, eff. 3/21/1996.
Amended by Laws, 2024, ch. 497, SB 2799,§ 15, eff. 7/1/2024.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-7 - Commission to appoint advisory committees; department designated to receive federal funds; department to manage and coordinate all functions related to wildlife and fisheries

The commission shall establish and appoint advisory committees for Parks and Recreation and Wildlife and Fisheries. The advisory committees shall aid the commission in formulating policies, discussing problems and considering other matters related to these areas as designated by the commission.
The department is designated as the single state agency to receive and expend any federal funds made available for matters within the jurisdiction of the department.
The department shall be responsible for conserving, managing, developing and protecting the wildlife and freshwater fisheries resources of the state. The department shall coordinate all functions of state government related to wildlife and fisheries resources that are within the jurisdiction of the department.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 13; Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 115; Laws, 1999, ch. 585, § 7, eff. 7/1/1999.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-8 - Powers and duties of department

The Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks shall have the following powers and duties:
(a)
To conserve, manage, develop and protect the wildlife of the State of Mississippi.
(b)
To take charge and have full jurisdiction and control over all state parks.
(c)
To cooperate with other entities and agencies in developing and implementing such plans as necessary for the conservation, protection, beautification and improvement of the quality of the environment and living natural resources.
Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 109, eff. 7/1/1989.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-9 - Powers and duties of Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks

Effective July 1, 1979, the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks shall have the following powers and duties:
(a)
To formulate the policy of the department regarding wildlife and fisheries within the jurisdiction of the department;
(b)
To apply for, receive and expend any federal or state funds or contributions, gifts, devises, bequests or funds from any other source;
(c)
To commission or conduct studies designed to determine alternative methods of managing and conserving the wildlife and fisheries resources of this state in a manner to insure efficiency and sustained productivity;
(d)
To receive the advice and counsel of the advisory committees created for the Division of Parks and Recreation and the Division of Wildlife and Fisheries; and
(e)
To discharge such other duties, responsibilities and powers as are necessary to implement the provisions of this chapter.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 14; Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 116, eff. 7/1/1989.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-11 - Qualifications of executive director

The executive director shall possess a combination of educational qualifications, experience and skills that clearly demonstrate the ability to manage a multifunctional agency. The minimum qualifications for the position of executive director are as follows:
(a)
A master's degree in one (1) of the management functions of the agency, wildlife or fisheries conservation, parks and recreation or related sciences or a master's degree in public or business administration and at least six (6) years' experience in a public or private organization with administrative management functions similar to those of the agency. At least three (3) of the six (6) years' experience must be in a position with administrative management responsibilities, including personnel supervision and budget management; or
(b)
A bachelor's degree in wildlife or fisheries conservation, biology, parks and recreation, forestry, agriculture or related sciences or a bachelor's degree in public or business administration and at least eight (8) years' experience in a public or private organization with administrative management functions directly related to those of the agency, with four (4) of those years in an administrative management position with personnel supervision and budget management responsibilities.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 15; Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 117; Laws, 1994, ch. 628, § 2, eff. 7/1/1994.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-13 - Powers and duties of executive director

Effective July 1, 1979, the executive director of the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks shall have the following powers and duties:
(a)
To supervise and direct all administrative and technical activities of the department;
(b)
To employ, subject to the approval of the commission, qualified professional personnel in the subject matter or fields, and such other technical and clerical staff as may be required for the operation of the department;
(c)
To coordinate all studies in the State of Mississippi concerned with the supply, development, use and conservation of wildlife, fisheries and parks;
(d)
To prepare and deliver to the Legislature and the Governor on or before January 1 of each year, and at such other times as may be required by the Legislature or Governor, a full report of the work of the department, including a detailed statement of expenditures of the department and any recommendations the department may have;
(e)
To enter into cooperative agreements with any federal or state agency or subdivision thereof, or any public or private institution located inside or outside the State of Mississippi, or any person, corporation or association in connection with studies and investigations pertaining to wildlife, fisheries and parks, provided the agreements do not have a financial cost in excess of the amounts appropriated for such purposes by the Legislature;
(f)
In his discretion, to enter into an affinity relationship with a credit card issuer and to expend funds derived therefrom to improve wildlife management areas; and
(g)
To carry out all regulations and rules adopted by the commission and enforce all licenses and permits issued by the commission.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 16; Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 118; Laws, 1996, ch. 389, § 1, eff. 3/19/1996.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-15 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1996, ch. 405, § 4, eff. 3/21/1996.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 17; Laws, 1989, ch. 544, § 119; Laws, 1990, ch. 522, § 33, Laws, 1993, ch. 574, § 2.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-17 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1989, ch. 544, § 120, eff. 7/1/1989.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 18.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-19 - Traveling expenses of departmental employees

All employees of the department, when authorized by the executive director, shall be entitled to transportation, traveling and subsistence expenses while away from the office on official business of the department, in accordance with Section
25-3-41
, Mississippi Code of 1972.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 19; Laws, 2000, ch. 516, § 24, eff. 4/30/2000.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-21 - Attorney General as counsel to Commission and Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks

The Attorney General shall be counsel and attorney for the commission and Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. The Attorney General shall designate one (1) of his deputies or assistants to be counsel and attorney for the commission and the department in all actions, proceedings and hearings. The deputy or assistant so designated shall be legal advisor of the commission and the department in all matters relating to the commission and the department and to the powers and duties of its officers.
Laws, 1978, ch. 484, § 20; Laws, 1990, ch. 480, § 2, eff. 3/26/1990.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-22 - Maintaining court records and abstracts of game and fish law violations

(1)
Every court shall keep a record of the proceedings of every case in which a person is charged with any violation of game and fish laws or regulations.
(2)
Unless otherwise sooner required by law, within forty-five (45) days after the conviction of a person upon a charge of violating any game or fish law or regulation the clerk of the court shall prepare and immediately forward to the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks an abstract of the record of the court and the abstract must be certified by the person so authorized to prepare the same to be true and correct.
(3)
The abstract must be made upon a form approved by the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, and shall include the name and address of the party charged, the number of the uniform citation, the nature of the offense, the date of hearing, the plea, the judgment, and if the fine was satisfied by prepayment or appearance bond forfeiture, and the amount of the fine or forfeiture, as the case may be.
(4)
The Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks shall keep copies of all abstracts for a period of at least three (3) years at its main office and the record shall be open to public inspection during reasonable business hours.
Laws, 1998, ch. 344, § 1, eff. 7/1/1998.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-23 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1989, ch. 334, § 1, eff. 3/7/1989.
Laws, 1980, ch. 528; Laws, 1984, ch. 488, § 232.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-25 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1994, ch. 578, § 65, eff. 7/1/1994.
Laws, 1984, ch. 410.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-27 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1995, ch. 409, § 10, eff. 3/15/1995.
Laws, 1985, ch. 445, § 2.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-29 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1994, ch. 578, § 65, eff. 7/1/1994.
Laws, 1988, ch. 548, § 1.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-31 - Hunter safety officers to investigate hunting accidents; law enforcement officer authorized to request that person involved in hunting accident resulting in injury or death submit to chemical test for presence of alcohol

(1)
Upon notification by a duly authorized law enforcement officer of a death or injury that occurred by use of a weapon by any person engaged in hunting, a hunter safety officer of the department shall immediately initiate an investigation of the incident and shall submit a report to the executive director of the department. The executive director shall submit the report to the commission. If the commission determines there is probable cause to believe that the incident occurred as a result of culpable negligence on the part of the person causing the death or injury, the commission shall notify the district attorney of the circuit court district in which the incident occurred.
(2)
A law enforcement officer may request that the person who causes serious bodily injury or death to another person by use of a weapon submit to a chemical test for determining the presence of alcohol or other drugs.
Laws, 1989, ch. 546, § 1; Laws, 1995, ch. 409, § 4; Laws, 2006, ch. 553, § 1, eff. 7/1/2006.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-33 - [Repealed]

Repealed by Laws of 1994, ch. 578, § 65, eff. 7/1/1994.
Laws, 1990, ch. 531, § 1; Laws, 1991, ch. 618, § 31; Laws, 1992, ch. 491 § 33; Laws, 1993, ch. 399, § 1.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-35 - Marked and unmarked department vehicles; violations and penalties

(1)
The Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks shall distinctively mark all vehicles used by conservation officers to enforce game and fish laws. Vehicles used for law enforcement purposes shall have the words "Law Enforcement" printed in bold letters in a color which is in contrast with the color of the vehicle, under the official insignia of the department.
(2)
The department may authorize the use of unmarked vehicles when identifying marks would hinder official investigations by the department.
(3)
Any person who knowingly and wilfully violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and is punishable as provided in Section
25-1-91
, Mississippi Code of 1972.
Laws, 1992, ch. 526, § 1, eff. 7/1/1992.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-37 - Bob Tyler Fish Hatchery; establishment; operation

(1)
The Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks may establish and operate a fish hatchery in North Mississippi, to be named the Bob Tyler Fish Hatchery, at a site to be determined by the department with the approval of the commission to enable the department to adequately stock public lakes and streams in North Mississippi. For such purpose, the department shall use those funds that are made available by any agency of the state or federal government, an appropriation by the Legislature or any other source. The department is designated as the governing authority of any such fish hatchery and the operation and maintenance of the fish hatchery shall meet the standards of the department and state law regarding the operation of a fish hatchery. The department may accept funds from any source and those funds shall be used to pay the maintenance, operational and administrative expenses of the fish hatchery.
(2)
The Tombigbee River Valley Water Management District is authorized to transfer to the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks fee title of no more than eighty (80) acres of approved replacement land to be surveyed from the following tract of land:
The Northeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 20, Township 12, Range 8, Monroe County, Mississippi, containing 40 acres more or less.
All that land in the Northeast Quarter; north of a line starting at monument stamped "LA-42A"; and running northeasterly to a monument stamped "LA-43", Section 20, Township 12, Range 8, Monroe County, Mississippi, containing 105.42 acres more or less.
The land shall be transferred once an acceptable lease agreement between the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is secured and the department is given the authority and appropriation to construct a fish hatchery.
(3)
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks shall have the authority to transfer the land necessary to reach the equal value for lands offered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the construction of a fish hatchery.
Laws, 1994, ch. 446, § 1, eff. 3/21/1994.
Amended by Laws, 2023, ch. 471, HB 923,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-39 - Regulation of hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing, guide and outfitter services

(1)
As used in this section:
(a)
"Boat" means a vessel used by a guide or outfitter for taking paying customers on recreational freshwater fishing excursions.
(b)
"Guide" means a person who advises or shows the way to others on a boat.
(c)
"Outfitter" means an establishment that sells freshwater fishing services.
(d)
"Captain" or "skipper" means a person who is at the helm, controls or steering of a boat.
(e)
"Boat mate" and "crew" mean one or more employees assisting the guide, outfitter, captain or skipper on a boat.
(2)
The commission may regulate hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing, guide and outfitter services. The commission shall have the following powers and duties:
(a)
Prescribe the form and type of licenses;
(b)
Prescribe an annual distinguishable decal for each boat;
(c)
Except as otherwise provided in this section, establish fees for the types of licenses; the fee for guide and outfitter services annual licenses shall not be less than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for residents and shall not be less than Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) for nonresidents;
(d)
Require one-year proof of residency and a valid sportsman's license for residents;
(e)
Require a valid nonresident fishing license for nonresidents;
(f)
Require First Aid/CPR certification; and
(g)
Exercise all powers to make regulations for enforcement and safety of such services.
(3)
A fishing guide, outfitter, skipper or captain that uses a boat to provide fishing guide services shall obtain an annual boat license and decal for a fee of at least Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00). In order to obtain a boat license and decal, an applicant must register the boat being used with the department and provide to the department a copy of the driver's license of the guide, outfitter, skipper or captain and proof of liability insurance and such other information as the department may require by regulation.
(4)
A violation of this section or any regulation created by the commission exercising its powers to regulate safety and services is a Class II violation and is punishable as provided in Section
49-7-143
.
Laws, 1997, ch. 549, § 1; reenacted and amended, Laws, 1998, ch. 310, § 1; Laws, 1999, ch. 311, § 1, eff. 3/8/1999.
Amended by Laws, 2023, ch. 493, SB 2534,§ 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 4 - MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND PARKS (§§ 49-4-1 — 49-4-41) › Section 49-4-41 - Regulation of the feeding of wild animals and game birds outside of wildlife enclosures

(1)
(a)
The Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks shall regulate the feeding of wild animals and game birds outside of wildlife enclosures and shall have plenary authority in matters related to such feeding of wild animals and game birds.
(b)
The authority to regulate feeding shall not apply to planted food plots and natural habitat management.
(c)
The authority to regulate feeding under this section shall not apply to wildlife enclosures.
(2)
The commission may take any action it deems necessary and may use its emergency powers to prevent, control or eradicate disease resulting from the feeding of wild animals and game birds.
(3)
A violation of this section or any regulation of the commission promulgated to prevent, control or eradicate disease is a Class II violation and is punishable as provided in Section
49-7-143
.
Laws, 2007, ch. 600, § 2, eff. 7/1/2007.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 5 - FISH, GAME AND BIRD PROTECTION AND REFUGES (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-157) › IN GENERAL (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-53) › Section 49-5-1 - Public lands

(1)
All lands belonging to the State of Mississippi whether held in fee or in trust by the state, are hereby declared forest reserves and wild life refuges so long as the state so owns them, and no wild life shall be taken thereon except under regulations of the commission.
(2)
Every public park, golf course and play ground, containing as much as fifty (50) acres, shall constitute, and is hereby declared to be a sanctuary or preserve for the protection and propagation of bird and animal life.
(3)
The Secretary of State, by and with the consent and approval of the Attorney General and the commission, is hereby authorized and empowered to lease, for a term not exceeding twenty (20) years, the cut-over, swamp and overflowed lands belonging to the state and unsuitable for cultivation, for the purpose of establishing game and fish preserves, but the lease of such land for game preserve purposes shall not be applied to tracts of land of less than one thousand (1,000) acres of contiguous lands.
Such a lease shall provide that the lessee or lessees of the cut-over, swamp or overflowed land shall not cut any timber for commercial purposes or permit waste thereof or of the lands and shall not include the right to mine the oil, gas and minerals on or under the said land. As a consideration for the lease, the Secretary of State, by and with the consent of the Attorney General and the commission, shall contract that the lessee or lessees shall at all times protect the state's interest in and to the timber growing on the leased lands.
However, nothing in this subsection shall prevent the state from selling at any time any timber or any of said lands so leased, or leasing and/or drilling such lands for gas, oil, and/or minerals.
Furthermore, nothing in this subsection shall prevent the homesteading of any lands so leased.
Codes, 1930, § 3879; 1942, §§ 5835, 5860, 5923; Laws, 1924, ch. 323; Laws, 1932, chs. 123, 130; Laws, 2000, ch. 516, § 26, eff. 4/30/2000.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 5 - FISH, GAME AND BIRD PROTECTION AND REFUGES (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-157) › IN GENERAL (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-53) › Section 49-5-2 - Definitions

For purposes of this chapter, the following words shall have the meanings ascribed herein unless the context otherwise requires:
(a)
"Commission" means the Mississippi Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.
(b)
"Department" means the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.
(c)
"Executive director" means the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.
Laws, 2000, ch. 516, § 25, eff. 4/30/2000.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 5 - FISH, GAME AND BIRD PROTECTION AND REFUGES (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-157) › IN GENERAL (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-53) › Section 49-5-3 - Boards of supervisors may add to preserve

The board of supervisors of any county may add additional territory to any bird and game preserve or sanctuary by an order entered on their minutes defining the boundaries of the same, and such additional territory shall be subject to all the provisions of this chapter.
Codes, 1930, § 3883; 1942, § 5839; Laws, 1924, ch. 323.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 5 - FISH, GAME AND BIRD PROTECTION AND REFUGES (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-157) › IN GENERAL (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-53) › Section 49-5-5 - Unlawful to hunt on preserve

It shall be unlawful for any person to hunt with gun or dog on any sanctuary or preserve for bird and game, or to rob or destroy the nests of any birds, or to catch, snare, trap, or net any birds within any such prescribed limits, and any person, found with gun or dog on or within such prescribed limits, shall be prima facie presumed to be hunting in violation of this section.
Codes, 1930, § 3880; 1942, § 5836; Laws, 1924, ch. 323.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 5 - FISH, GAME AND BIRD PROTECTION AND REFUGES (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-157) › IN GENERAL (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-53) › Section 49-5-7 - What birds protected

(1)
No wild bird other than a game bird or introduced pheasants which are hereby classified as domestic fowl shall be pursued, taken, wounded, killed, captured, possessed or exported at any time, dead or alive. No part of the plumage, skin or body of any bird protected by this section or of any birds coming from without the state, the importation of which is prohibited into the United States, shall be sold or had in possession for sale in this state.
No person shall molest, take or destroy or attempt to molest, take or destroy the nests or eggs of any wild bird, or have such nests or eggs in his possession, except under the authority of a permit duly issued for scientific purposes.
(2)
This section shall not apply to game birds for which there is an open season under state law or introduced pheasants; birds, or parts thereof collected or possessed under the authority of a certificate duly issued for scientific purposes; or to the English sparrow (Passer domesticus), red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), rusty blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), Brewer's blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus), grackles (Quiscalus sp.), brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris) or crows (Corvus sp.) or to the nests or eggs of such unprotected birds. Nor shall anything contained in this section prohibit any person on his own land or land under his control from killing or controlling any English sparrow (Passer domesticus), red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), rusty blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), Brewer's blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus), grackles (Quiscalus sp.), brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris) or crows (Corvus sp.) or any bird by nature destructive of gardens, crops or property of any kind when such birds are committing or about to commit depredation upon ornamental or shade trees, agricultural crops, livestock, or wildlife or when concentrated in such numbers and manner as to constitute a health hazard or other nuisance. This section does not authorize and shall not be construed to authorize the killing of any migratory birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Codes, 1930, § 3882; 1942, §§ 5838, 5868, 5869; Laws, 1924, ch. 323; Laws, 1932, ch. 123; Laws, 1948, ch. 252, § 1; Laws, 1970, ch. 284, § 1; Laws, 1971, ch. 315, § 1; Laws, 2000, ch. 368, § 2; Laws, 2001, ch. 553, § 1, eff. 4/7/2001.
Mississippi Code 1972 (2023) › Title 49 - CONSERVATION AND ECOLOGY (§§ 49-NEW-001 — 49-39-7) › Chapter 5 - FISH, GAME AND BIRD PROTECTION AND REFUGES (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-157) › IN GENERAL (§§ 49-5-1 — 49-5-53) › Section 49-5-9 - Waterfowl included within term "game."

As used in Sections
49-5-11
to
49-5-19
, the term "game" shall also include waterfowl.
Codes, 1942, § 5844-25; Laws, 1962, ch. 181, § 7, eff. 6/1/1962.