Bill > HB518

This bill increases the penalties for illegally dumping solid waste in Mississippi, specifically amending Section 97-15-30 of the Mississippi Code of 1972. The changes primarily focus on raising the fines for misdemeanor and felony violations. For misdemeanor offenses involving amounts between 15 and 500 pounds or 27 to 100 cubic feet, the fine will now range from $500 to $1,500, an increase from the previous $100 to $1,000. Felony violations, which include amounts over 500 pounds or 100 cubic feet, any amount of hazardous waste, or any amount for commercial purposes (meaning for economic gain), will now carry a fine of $1,000 to $75,000, up from $500 to $50,000. In addition to fines, those convicted of misdemeanor or felony violations may be required to remove or neutralize the waste, repair damages, perform community service related to cleanup, and pay investigative and prosecutorial costs. The bill also clarifies that each day can be considered a separate violation for felony offenses and allows for the forfeiture of vehicles or equipment used in felony dumping. Furthermore, it introduces a provision for the Attorney General to offer rewards of up to $10,000 for information leading to a felony conviction, excluding government employees acting in their official capacity. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2026.

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https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB0518.xml