Mississippi House Bill HB240

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/23
• Refer: 1/5/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Weighing devices; provide Commissioner of Agriculture with authority to regulate those that dispense agricultural commodities.

Impact

The bill proposes amendments to existing statutes related to the sale and measurement of agricultural commodities, thus expanding the regulatory framework within which the Commissioner can operate. The flexibility introduced by HB240 may lead to more competitive practices in the agricultural sector, which is essential for supporting local farmers and businesses. The regulatory authority extended to the Commissioner is expected to streamline processes for the sale and measurement of agricultural products, potentially fostering greater economic activity within the state.

Summary

House Bill 240 seeks to amend regulations around the sale of agricultural commodities in Mississippi by granting the Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce the authority to make exceptions concerning the use of specific weighing devices that dispense these commodities. This bill proposes changes to existing laws, specifically Section 75-27-39 of the Mississippi Code, to enhance the flexibility of sales practices for agricultural products, whether they are liquid or solid in form. The intent behind the amendment is to ensure accurate information about the quantities of commodities sold while also allowing local adaptation to varying market conditions.

Contention

One potential area of contention surrounding HB240 may include debates over the implications of granting more regulatory power to the Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, particularly concerning how these exceptions will be applied across different regions and types of commodities. Stakeholders, including farmers and retailers, might have differing opinions on the regulatory changes and their impacts on fair trading practices. Discussions may arise regarding the balance between effective regulation and the need for flexibility within the agricultural market, ensuring that local practices can be accommodated without undermining quality and accuracy.