MS SB2861

Amends Section 5-3-59 to establish a criminal penalty of up to $1,000 fine and/or six months in county jail for contempt of the peer committee, including willfully refusing to appear, answer questions, or produce subpoenaed documents.

Creates Section 5-3-70 to provide an alternative civil enforcement mechanism allowing the committee to file complaints in chancery court to compel witness compliance, with court-imposed contempt sanctions.

Establishes proper venue for contempt prosecutions in the county where the subpoena was issued, where the offender was served, or where testimony was ordered to be given.

Exempts the Joint Legislative Committee on Performance Evaluation and Expenditure Review from protective orders issued under public records law, allowing access to confidential information.

Takes effect July 1, 2010.