MS HB1373

Establishes that the Pre-Trial Intervention Act's intent is to increase alternatives to imprisonment for certain nonviolent offenders and those not convicted of drug trafficking.

Authorizes judges and district attorneys to recommend offenders for participation in pre-trial intervention programs, in addition to allowing offenders to apply directly.

Removes several eligibility criteria for intervention and streamlines requirements to focus on age (18+), community safety assessment, likelihood of reoffending, legal representation, and adequate staff resources.

Changes district attorney and judge consideration of victim and law enforcement recommendations from mandatory ("shall") to discretionary ("may").

Expands eligibility restrictions to exclude only second or subsequent drug trafficking offenses, allowing first-time drug trafficking offenders to participate in the program.

Effective date: July 1, 2017.