MS SB2126

Establishes a Mississippi Witness Protection Program within the executive branch with a five-member board appointed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Mississippi Prosecutors Association, and Mississippi Sheriff's Association.

Authorizes district attorneys to petition the board for witness protection services for essential witnesses in crimes of violence, including housing, education relocation, transportation, and daily living expenses (capped at $30/day).

Requires written memoranda of understanding between the state and protected witnesses detailing responsibilities, including truthful testimony, prohibition on criminal activity, and cooperation with law enforcement.

Provides board authority to approve witness protection plans by majority vote; allows district attorneys to take emergency protective actions for up to 10 days before board approval, with subsequent reimbursement.

Limits witness protection services to a maximum of two years and grants protected witnesses priority trial status; requires courts to provide trials within one year of arraignment or fund continued protection services from court budgets.