MS SB2275

Amends Mississippi Code Section 97-23-99 to clarify that employees of merchants cannot willfully give away merchandise without receiving full payment or specific authorization from the merchant.

Establishes tiered penalties based on merchandise value: misdemeanor with fine up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to one year for merchandise valued under $500.

Increases penalty to felony with imprisonment up to ten years and/or fine up to $10,000 for merchandise valued at $500 or more.

Removes the previous $250 threshold for the offense, making the offense apply to merchandise of any value without authorization.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.