Senate Bill 2768

(As Passed the Senate)

AN ACT TO PROVIDE THAT STATE REGULATIONS GOVERNING FREE RANGE POULTRY SHALL BE NO MORE STRINGENT THAN FEDERAL REGULATIONS ON FREE RANGE CHICKENS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. (1) Any regulations or best management practices adopted by the Commissioner of Agriculture regulating free range poultry shall be no more stringent or extensive in scope, coverage, or effect than federal regulations and best management practices.

(2) If federal regulations or recommended best management practices do not address a matter relating to free range poultry, the Commissioner of Agriculture may adopt regulations or best management practices necessary to protect human health, safety or the environment.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2003.