Technology

SB 2267 establishes the Mississippi Statewide Data Exchange Act, requiring the Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) to create a secure, cloud-based platform for state agencies to share data efficiently. It mandates a comprehensive study, a phased implementation plan, and a centralized digital hub for businesses to submit and track state filings. The bill also creates a CIO Council of agency IT leaders to oversee the system, ensure privacy/security compliance, and provide strategic guidance. This directly affects all Mississippi state agencies and businesses interacting with state government services through digital filings. The platform aims to reduce duplication, improve service delivery, and standardize data sharing across state operations.

HB 1380 protects Mississippi state/local governments and commercial entities (like businesses handling personal data) from lawsuits related to cybersecurity incidents if they follow specific, nationally recognized security standards. The bill requires these entities to adopt cybersecurity programs aligned with frameworks such as NIST, HIPAA, or ISO 27000, creating a strong legal defense against liability claims. It establishes that compliance with these standards is presumed valid unless a plaintiff proves otherwise with clear evidence. This law directly affects organizations managing sensitive data by reducing legal risks tied to data breaches while mandating adherence to established security practices. The protection applies to covered entities starting January 1, 2026.

SB 3062 updates Mississippi's tax incentives for broadband infrastructure by raising minimum speed requirements and adding budget caps. It revises the definition of eligible equipment to require fixed broadband to meet current FCC speed benchmarks (instead of the previous 35 Mbps down/3 Mbps up standard) for property tax exemptions on equipment placed in service between 2025-2030. The bill also limits annual tax credits to $15 million total ($1.5 million per company) and prohibits credits if equipment costs were covered by federal BEAD program funds. These changes directly affect telecommunications companies deploying broadband in Mississippi's designated Tier areas (Tier One to Three), impacting their tax liability for qualifying equipment investments.