Senate Bill 2675

(As Passed the Senate)

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 83-1-35, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT OF REWARD WHICH MAY BE OFFERED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE IN CASES OF WILLFUL DESTRUCTION BY FIRE OR EXPLOSION OF ANY REAL OR PERSONAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN THIS STATE; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

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

SECTION 1. Section 83-1-35, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

83-1-35. The Commissioner of Insurance is hereby authorized, in his discretion, to offer a reward not to exceed * * *~~One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00)~~ Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) for information leading to the apprehension, indictment and conviction of any person, persons or organization of persons responsible for the willful destruction by fire or explosion of any real or personal property located within this state.

The Commissioner of Insurance is further directed to have suitable reward notices printed and posted in conspicuous places, and to utilize such other news media or informational materials as necessary to encourage those with information to come forward.

The reward monies paid, if any, as well as the cost of printing and distribution of reward notices and other news media or informational materials, shall be paid from premium taxes under Sections 27-15-103 and 27-15-109. However, the Commissioner of Insurance shall keep a separate account of all monies disbursed under the provisions of this section and shall include the same in his annual report.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2013.