Limitation on the liability to the state of prospective contractors; authorize certain agency heads to negotiate.

HB 578 would have allowed Mississippi state agencies to negotiate liability limits with prospective contractors in future contracts, directly affecting both state agencies and contractors. The bill’s key provision permits agency heads, purchasing agents, or designated staff to include such limits during contract negotiations, as long as the state retains "reasonable protection" against damages. It did not create new requirements but expanded existing negotiation authority for contracts. The bill died in committee in February 2026 and never became law.