MS HB447

Authorizes Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol officers to engage in off-duty nongovernmental secondary employment that does not conflict with primary duties or discredit the agency.

Prohibits secondary employment involving conflicts of interest, use of police authority, debt collection, repossession, bail bonding, private investigation, paralegal services, adult entertainment, courtroom testimony against law enforcement, or primarily alcohol-serving establishments.

Requires employers hiring patrol officers for off-duty work to submit an Off-Duty Police Services Information form to the relevant troop commander, including details on business type, duties, dates, firearms use, and acknowledgment of records availability.

Prohibits patrol officers from using state-issued uniforms, vehicles, firearms, or equipment while engaging in secondary employment and allows the Commissioner to prohibit officers from secondary work if conflicts of interest or performance issues are discovered.

Effective July 1, 2019; amends Mississippi Code Sections 45-3-19 and 45-3-39 to reflect the Commissioner's authority to administer the secondary employment program and clarify equipment use restrictions.