MS SB2278

Amends Mississippi Code Section 75-24-3 to define "military service member" as a person on active duty in or a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, with specific definitions of "active duty" and "veteran" status.

Increases civil penalties under Section 75-24-19 for deceptive and unfair trade practices when the victim is a military service member, spouse, or dependent child to a maximum of $15,000 per violation (increased from $10,000).

Maintains the $10,000 per violation penalty cap for deceptive trade practices against non-military persons.

Requires half of all penalties collected to fund the Office of Consumer Protection and the other half to go to the State General Fund for consumer fraud education and enforcement operations.

Takes effect July 1, 2020.