Energy

SB 2062, the Consumer Freedom of Choice Act, prohibits Mississippi local governments from banning or restricting the use of motor vehicles, tools (like generators and lawn mowers), and farm equipment (such as tractors and combines) based on their fuel source (e.g., gasoline, electric). It directly affects consumers, farmers, and businesses that rely on these items by preventing fuel-based restrictions in local regulations. The bill allows governments to enforce safety rules, illegal use prohibitions, and utility provider requirements, but not to deny permits or impose restrictions solely due to fuel type. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.

SB 2308 extends the expiration date of Mississippi's energy efficiency standards for building construction, which were originally set to end on July 1, 2029. These standards require new commercial and public buildings (including offices, schools, retail stores, and hospitals) to meet specific energy-saving design practices based on national guidelines. The bill does not alter the existing requirements but ensures they remain enforceable beyond 2029. This affects building developers, contractors, and local governments responsible for implementing and enforcing the codes.

HB 1771 extends the expiration date of Mississippi's building energy efficiency standards, which require certain commercial, public, and institutional buildings to meet specific energy-saving design and construction requirements. The law applies to buildings with heating/cooling systems (like offices, schools, hotels, and retail stores) but excludes small, unheated structures, mobile homes, and federal properties. It delays the automatic repeal of these standards from July 1, 2029, to a later date (not specified in the text), keeping the current requirements in place. The bill does not change the standards themselves but ensures their continued application for covered buildings.

HB 1534 redefines "clean energy" in Mississippi to include Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) from agricultural waste (like poultry litter and manure) and "Advanced Natural Gas" with carbon capture. It allows farmers to contribute to the energy grid via RNG and designates them as "Energy Harvest Partners," while requiring utilities to maintain affordable rates and protect natural gas infrastructure from mandatory retirement if it would raise costs or reduce reliability. The bill directly affects Mississippi's agricultural producers (especially poultry/livestock), utilities, and ratepayers, with implementation beginning July 1, 2026. It aims to support farm-based energy production without increasing consumer costs or compromising grid stability.

Died In Committee