MS HB896

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

Prohibits secondary employment that constitutes a conflict of interest, interferes with primary duties, uses police authority, involves debt collection/repossession/bail bonding/private investigation, or occurs at establishments primarily selling alcoholic beverages for on-site consumption.

Requires employers hiring patrol officers for off-duty work to submit an Off-Duty Police Services Information form to the relevant troop commander, including business details, duties, dates, and acknowledgment that employment records will be made available upon request.

Prohibits patrol officers from using state-issued uniforms, vehicles, firearms, or equipment while engaged in secondary employment.

Allows the commissioner to prohibit an officer from secondary employment if conflicts of interest are discovered or if the employment interferes with primary duties, effective July 1, 2019.