MS HB1199

Creates a Public Defender Oversight and Accountability Commission to govern the Office of State Public Defender, replacing direct gubernatorial appointment of the State Defender with commission appointment.

Commission consists of seven members serving three-year terms, with five appointed by the Governor from each Court of Appeals District and two at-large members; at least five members must be Mississippi Bar members and at least two must be Magnolia Bar members.

Prohibits active public defenders, prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement professionals from serving on the commission and requires members to have criminal justice system knowledge and experience.

Commission establishes evidence-based policies for indigent defense including caseload standards, attorney qualifications, compensation rates, and indigent eligibility determinations.

Commission maintains records on county and district indigent defense operations, caseloads, and expenditures; State Defender serves as executive director and can be removed by the commission for non-qualification, failure to perform duties, or exceeding authority.