MS HB949

Reduces the distance requirement for drug offense enhancements near schools from 1,500 feet to 500 feet, and changes the trigger from automatic enhancement to only when persons under 18 are reasonably expected to be present.

Adds an exemption to school-zone drug enhancements for offenses committed inside a private residence where no person under 18 was present.

Repeals Section 41-29-147, which previously provided enhanced sentencing for second drug offense convictions.

Clarifies parole eligibility for offenders convicted between 1995 and 2014 of controlled substance offenses under Sections 41-29-142 and 41-29-147, making them eligible for parole after serving one-fourth of their sentence.

Effective July 1, 2017.