Mississippi Senate Bill SB2290

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/24
• Refer: 2/6/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks; limit consecutive terms, and impose certain additional qualifications.

Impact

In addition to imposing term limits, SB2290 mandates that the commission maintain at least two members with specific educational or experiential qualifications related to wildlife management. This requirement enhances the commission's expertise and aligns its leadership with a more informed understanding of wildlife governance. The bill also increases from five to ten years the time period prior to appointment during which a commissioner must not have any violations regarding fish or game laws, ensuring that commission members possess a clean regulatory record.

Summary

Senate Bill 2290 aims to amend Section 49-4-4 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, focusing on the governance of the Mississippi Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. The bill stipulates that no member of the commission may serve more than two consecutive five-year terms. This amendment is designed to promote turnover and inject new perspectives within the commission, which is vital for effective governance in wildlife and natural resource management in Mississippi.

Contention

Debates surrounding the bill may arise regarding the balance between experienced incumbents and new appointees. Supporters argue that term limits allow for fresh ideas and diverse opinions, while critics might contend that removing experienced members could destabilize ongoing projects and diminish the continuity essential for long-term wildlife management plans. The bill also emphasizes personal qualifications, adding layers of scrutiny to candidate selection, which may spark discussions about who is best suited to safeguard Mississippi's natural resources.