MS HB122

Establishes comprehensive bail reform procedures governing judicial release and detention decisions, requiring judges to order release on personal recognizance or unsecured bond unless conditions are needed to assure appearance or public safety.

Creates tiered release options with least restrictive conditions first, including custody with designated person, employment/education requirements, travel restrictions, substance abuse treatment, electronic monitoring, and property/surety bonds.

Requires detention hearings for serious offenses (crimes of violence, 10+ year felonies, sex crimes, minor victims) with rebuttable presumptions that no conditions will assure safety; clear and convincing evidence required to order pretrial detention.

Establishes penalties for bail violations including failure to appear (up to 10 years imprisonment for felony charges) and sentencing enhancements (additional 10 years for felonies, 1 year for misdemeanors committed while released).

Amends existing bail statutes (Sections 99-5-11 through 99-5-39 and 99-35-1 through 99-35-129) to incorporate new bail reform procedures and takes effect July 1, 2014.