Bill > HB290

This bill clarifies and expands the legal rights of 18-year-olds in Mississippi to enter into contractual agreements related to property and financial matters. Specifically, the bill amends existing law to explicitly state that individuals 18 years and older can convey and/or encumber personal property, mortgages, and real property, in addition to their existing rights to enter into binding contracts for investments and leasing residential property. The bill also maintains a provision allowing 18-year-olds to sue or be sued in their own name as adults. Additionally, the bill brings forward an existing statute that allows chancery courts to remove a minor's legal disability, which enables minors to perform legal actions related to real estate as if they were 18 years old, such as selling, conveying, mortgaging, or leasing property. This legislation aims to provide clearer legal standing for young adults in property and contractual matters, removing potential ambiguities about their legal capacity. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving time for legal professionals and the public to prepare for the new provisions.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0290.xml