MS HB45

Amends Mississippi's bad check law (Sections 97-19-55 through 97-19-69) to include electronic fund transfers (EFT) alongside traditional checks, drafts, and orders.

Applies existing bad check penalties and procedures to fraudulent electronic fund transfers, including the $40 service charge notice requirement and 15-day payment deadline.

Maintains criminal penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges (fines of $25-$500 and/or jail time) for first offenses under $100 to felony charges (up to 5 years imprisonment) for repeat or high-value offenses of $100 or more.

Requires drawees to document reasons for dishonoring electronic fund transfers and allows courts to impose restitution and fees up to 85% of the transaction amount for convicted offenders.

Effective date: July 1, 2014.