MS SB2613

Amends Section 5-3-59 to establish criminal penalties for contempt of the PEER Committee, including fines up to $1,000 and imprisonment up to six months, or both, for failing to appear, answer questions, or produce documents in response to a lawful subpoena.

Requires the committee chairman to certify contempt allegations to the Attorney General or county prosecutor to institute criminal proceedings against the accused.

Establishes venue for contempt prosecutions in the county where the subpoena was issued, where the accused was served, or where testimony or evidence production was ordered.

Creates Section 5-3-70 to provide an alternative civil enforcement mechanism allowing the committee to file complaints in chancery court for judicial enforcement of subpoenas, with court contempt powers as an alternative to criminal prosecution.

Amends Section 25-61-9 to exempt the PEER Committee from protective orders that restrict access to confidential information, allowing the committee to obtain and determine how information subject to protective orders should be used and reported.