Senate Bill 2264, introduced in Mississippi on January 21, 2025, aims to enhance the state's agritourism sector by establishing a formal registration process for agritourism professionals. The bill outlines key provisions that require these professionals to describe their intended agritourism activities and locations, alongside an annual registration fee of $50 payable to the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce.

A significant aspect of the bill is the creation of a special fund within the State Treasury, designated for the Department of Agriculture and Commerce. This fund will collect the registration fees, and any unspent funds at the end of the fiscal year will not revert to the State General Fund, allowing for continued investment in agritourism initiatives. Additionally, the department is tasked with maintaining a public list of registered agritourism professionals and their activities, which is intended to promote and publicize these offerings to boost agritourism in Mississippi.

The bill does not impose legal liability on the department for the activities of registered professionals, emphasizing its role as a facilitator rather than a regulator. This distinction has sparked discussions among stakeholders about the balance between promoting agritourism and ensuring safety and accountability within the sector.

Supporters of the bill argue that it will provide a structured framework to support agritourism, which can be a vital economic driver for rural communities in Mississippi. By formalizing the registration process, proponents believe it will enhance visibility for agritourism activities, potentially attracting more visitors and generating additional revenue for local economies.

Opponents, however, have raised concerns about the implications of registration and the associated fees, suggesting that it may create barriers for small-scale agritourism operators. They argue that the bill could inadvertently favor larger businesses that can absorb the costs more easily.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its potential impact on Mississippi's agritourism landscape remains a focal point of debate. If passed, Senate Bill 2264 could significantly reshape how agritourism is organized and promoted in the state, with implications for economic development and rural tourism strategies.