MS HB1733

Authorizes the Issaquena County Board of Supervisors to contract with private entities for construction, lease, acquisition, improvement, operation, or management of a county-owned jail facility used as a regional correctional facility.

Requires contractors to demonstrate qualifications, experience, compliance with federal and state laws, and a history of successfully operating other private county jails.

Mandates private operation contracts provide at least 10% cost savings compared to county operation for the same level and quality of service.

Establishes contract terms of up to 5 years with renewable 5-year options for incarceration services, and up to 20 years for construction, purchase, or lease agreements.

Requires contractors to maintain minimum $1,000,000 liability insurance per instance with $2,000,000 annual aggregate, post a performance bond, defend the county against claims, and waive sovereign immunity.

Restricts housing to minimum or medium security offenders only and prohibits county officials with contracting duties from becoming contractor employees for one year after service termination.