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By Laws

BYLAWS OF THE SOUTHERN HEMP COALITION, INC.

A Mississippi Nonprofit Corporation

ARTICLE I – NAME, PURPOSE s MISSION

Section 1. Name

The name of this organization is Mississippi Southern Hemp Coalition, Inc. (“the Coalition”).

Section 2. Purpose

The Coalition is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, and scientific purposes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and the Mississippi Nonprofit

Corporation Act.

Section 3. Mission

The mission of the Coalition is to promote sustainable hemp cultivation in Mississippi; support farmers, processors, and the hemp retail industry; advocate for science-based hemp policy; expand public education; and strengthen environmental and economic benefits through hemp development.

Section 4. Limitations

The Coalition shall operate as a nonprofit and shall not distribute profits to private individuals. The Coalition does not engage in campaigning for political candidates;

however, the Coalition may lobby against legislation that threatens the hemp industry and advocate for legislation that promotes industry growth. When necessary and appropriate under applicable nonprofit laws, the Coalition may make limited political contributions that support advocacy efforts and protect the interests of the industry. All lobbying and

political activity shall remain within IRS and state nonprofit guidelines.

ARTICLE II – OFFICES

Section 1. Principal Office

The principal office shall be located in the State of Mississippi at an address designated by the President.

Section 2. Registered Agent

The Coalition shall maintain a Mississippi registered agent and registered office as required for corporate status.

ARTICLE III – MEMBERSHIP

Section 1. Eligibility

Membership is open to individuals, farmers, businesses, nonprofit groups, and academic institutions that support the Coalition’s mission.

Section 2. Membership Classes

The President may establish membership classes with corresponding dues and benefits.

Section 3. Rights of Members

Members may participate in programs, receive communications, and attend meetings. Voting rights may be granted or withheld at the President’s discretion.

Section 4. Dues

Membership dues may be set by the President and may vary by membership category.

Section 5. Termination

Membership may be terminated for nonpayment of dues, violation of policies, or conduct harmful to the Coalition. Termination shall be determined by the President after reasonable notice.

ARTICLE IV – GOVERNANCE

Section 1. Structure

The Coalition may be governed by a Board of Directors or, prior to forming a Board, by the President acting as the sole governing authority.

Section 2. Authority of the President

Until additional leaders are appointed, the President holds full organizational authority, including:

  1. Managing daily operations
  2. Overseeing finances
  3. Approving expenditures
  4. Ensuring program oversight
  5. Establishing committees
  6. Making decisions necessary to fulfill the mission

Section 3. Future Board Formation

The President may appoint additional directors or officers at any time. No minimum number of directors is required until the Coalition establishes a Board.

ARTICLE V – OFFICERS

Section 1. Required Officer

The only required officer is the President.

Section 2. Optional Officers

At the President’s discretion, the following officers may be created and appointed:

  • Vice President
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer
  • Director of Programs
  • Director of Outreach Section Duties of the President The President shall:
  1. Serve as the chief executive officer
  2. Oversee all programs and operations
  3. Manage financial accounts and budgets
  4. Represent the Coalition
  5. Sign contracts or agreements
  6. Maintain organizational records
  7. Establish committees or advisory groups

Section 4. Removal of Appointed Officers

Any officer appointed by the President may be removed at the President’s discretion.

ARTICLE VI – COMMITTEES

Section 1. Establishment

The President may create committees or working groups, including but not limited to:

  • Policy C Advocacy
  • Farmer Outreach
  • Research C Education
  • Sustainability
  • Events C Programs

Section 2. Authority

Committees support and advise the Coalition. Final authority remains with the President unless a Board is later established.

ARTICLE VII – RECORDS s FINANCES

Section 1. Fiscal Year

The fiscal year shall end on December 31.

Section 2. Records

The Coalition shall maintain organizational records including minutes (if applicable), financial documents, membership information, and its articles and bylaws.

Section 3. Financial Management

The President oversees all financial matters. Expenditures must support the mission and comply with nonprofit standards.

Section 4. Conflict of Interest

The Coalition shall maintain a Conflict of Interest Policy. The President must disclose any personal interest in a transaction and act in the Coalition’s best interest.

Section 5. Compensation

The President may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses. Any compensation must comply with IRS rules and nonprofit standards.

ARTICLE VIII – NONDISCRIMINATION

The Coalition shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender

identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected classification.

ARTICLE IX – AMENDMENTS

These bylaws may be amended by the President until a Board of Directors is formed. Once a Board exists, amendments shall require a two-thirds vote of the Board.

CERTIFICATION s SIGNATURE

I hereby certify that the above Bylaws of the Southern Hemp Coalition, Inc. were adopted and approved.

Printed Name:       Ben Couey     

Date:        12-5-25     

Southern Hemp Coalition