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Bill

HB 661

Department of Marine Resources; revise administrative hearing procedure for.

2025 Regular Session

HB 661 modifies administrative hearing procedures for Mississippi's Department of Marine Resources, affecting how marine industry stakeholders contest agency decisions (died in 2025).

Died On Calendar
#marineresources
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Bill Summary · HB 661

Legislative bill overview

HB 661 revises the administrative hearing procedures for the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, modifying how the agency conducts internal disputes and regulatory appeals. The bill would alter procedural rules governing how parties present evidence, challenge decisions, and interact with hearing officers in DMR matters.

Why is this important

Administrative hearing procedures directly affect how fishermen, aquaculture operators, and other marine industry stakeholders can contest DMR enforcement actions, permits, or regulatory decisions. Clear, fair procedures impact both regulatory effectiveness and the ability of affected parties to receive due process.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of changes unclear: Without seeing the bill text, the specific procedural modifications are unknown—could range from minor timeline adjustments to significant shifts in burden of proof or evidence standards
  • Industry vs. agency interests: Commercial fishing interests may favor streamlined appeals while DMR may prefer procedures that prevent frivolous challenges
  • Due process concerns: Changes to hearing procedures could affect whether regulated parties get adequate opportunity to present their case, a constitutional consideration

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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