MS SB2649

Amends Mississippi Code Section 47-5-193 to make it unlawful for any person without authorization to knowingly send a communication to a cell phone possessed by a confined offender, with exception for law enforcement conducting official investigations.

Authorizes circuit courts to issue orders to carriers to disable cell phone service for offenders in correctional facilities.

Amends Section 47-5-198 to establish that correctional facility officers or employees convicted of violating drug possession or contraband laws are ineligible for probation, parole, suspension of sentence, earned time allowance, or any other sentence reduction.

Applies uniform sentencing penalties of $25,000 fine and 3-7 years imprisonment for both general offenders and facility employees convicted under these provisions.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.