MS HB353

Authorizes the Commissioner of Corrections to allow nonviolent offenders meeting criteria in Section 47-5-451 to work as volunteer fire fighters in counties upon written request by a majority of the board of supervisors.

Requires offenders to receive training from the State Fire Academy before participating in volunteer fire fighter programs, with the Department of Corrections maintaining supervision, guarding, and safekeeping.

Amends Section 45-11-7 to authorize the State Fire Academy to train nonviolent offenders under Department of Corrections jurisdiction who have been approved by the Commissioner of Corrections.

Effective date is July 1, 2010.