MS HB1309

Amends Section 33-13-159 of Mississippi Code to clarify that decisions to grant trials before special or general courts-martial are reserved to the special or general courts-martial convening authority, respectively.

Persons notified of summary courts-martial trial may request trial before a special or general courts-martial, but the convening authority has sole discretion to grant or deny such requests.

Summary courts-martial retain jurisdiction to try non-officer personnel for any offense under the code, with maximum penalties including fines up to $250, confinement for 30 days, pay reduction, and restitution up to $3,500.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.