MS HB1151

Brings forward Section 21-23-8 establishing that bail's sole purpose is to guarantee court appearance and cannot be forfeited for other reasons.

Requires municipal courts to issue judgment nisi and bench warrants when defendants fail to appear, with 90-day window for defendants to appear or sureties to provide mitigating circumstances before forfeiture becomes final.

Authorizes Department of Insurance to revoke bail bond authority of any surety with a final forfeiture judgment that is not set aside after 90 days.

Allows refund of bail (minus reasonable extradition costs) if defendant appears, is arrested, or is found incarcerated within 18 months of final forfeiture.

Requires justice court judges to check the Mississippi Protection Order Registry and consider existing domestic abuse protection orders when setting bail in cases involving current or former intimate partners and family members.