MS HB354

Creates a Joint Permanent Legislative Oversight Committee on Crime and Corrections consisting of 12 members including the Speaker of the House and Lieutenant Governor (ex officio) plus 5 House members and 5 Senate members appointed by their respective leadership.

Committee chair and vice chair must be from different chambers and serve three-year terms with vacancies filled by the respective appointing authorities.

Committee shall make recommendations to the Legislature on Department of Corrections operations and submit findings and recommendations by the 15th legislative day of each regular session.

Grants committee authority to examine all Department of Corrections operations, review proposed telephone contracts 30 days before execution, and conduct announced or unannounced inspections at any time.

Committee members receive per diem and travel expenses from their respective house contingent funds when Legislature is not in session; committee may employ consultants and use assistance from Department of Public Safety and State Auditor.