MS HB1024

Adds a 15-year lookback period for habitual offender convictions under Section 99-19-81, counting from either the conviction date or release date from incarceration, allowing qualification as a habitual offender only if prior felonies occurred within that 15-year window.

Restricts Section 99-19-83 habitual offender sentences to apply only to felonies defined as crimes of violence under Section 97-3-2, and removes parole and early release eligibility for those convicted under this section.

Allows prisoners convicted as habitual offenders prior to the effective date (July 1, 2020) to be considered for parole if their conviction would result in a reduced sentence based on the new 15-year lookback provision.

Removes restrictions on parole reduction and establishes that offenders age 60 or older who have served at least 10 years may be eligible for parole consideration, except for habitual offenders and violent crime offenders.

Effective date is July 1, 2020.