MS SB2249

Authorizes parole eligibility for offenders who committed felonies while under age 18, with eligibility after serving 25% of sentences under 30 years, or 10 years for sentences of 30+ years or life imprisonment.

Requires a separate sentencing proceeding before a jury for defendants under 18 convicted of capital murder, with jury determining whether to impose life imprisonment or life without parole.

Mandates jury must unanimously find in writing that aggravating circumstances outweigh mitigating circumstances before imposing life without parole, with specific consideration given to defendant's age, immaturity, and potential for rehabilitation.

Establishes that State Parole Board must set tentative parole hearing dates within 90 days of custody and prioritize educational and job training programs for inmates within 24 months of parole eligibility.

Amends Section 47-7-3 to exclude juvenile offenders from parole ineligibility provisions that apply to adults, making them eligible under the new criteria established in the act.