MS HB1444

Creates a 9-member task force to address the disparity of African-American males in the judicial system, composed of three House members, three Senate members, and representatives from Education, Human Services, and Corrections departments.

Task force shall review incarceration data, education dropout rates, guidance and counseling methods, drug rehabilitation practices, and state training school methods for preventing juvenile offenders from entering the adult prison system.

Task force shall develop best practices for job skills training and create a program for college preparation, leadership development, and elementary school teacher certification for African-American males to serve as role models.

Task force must submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature by December 1, 2013, including any recommended legislation.

Takes effect July 1, 2013; non-legislative members receive per diem and reimbursement; legislative members paid from contingent expense funds when Legislature is not in session.