MS SB2127

Adds two new enhanced penalty provisions for adults who flee or elude law enforcement when passengers age 15 or younger are in the vehicle: misdemeanor fleeing results in up to $1,000 fine or up to 1 year in county jail; reckless/willful disregard fleeing results in 3-5 years in state prison.

Adds a new affirmative defense allowing drivers to proceed in a safe manner to a reasonably near section of roadway more suitable for stopping, a reasonably near side road, or a reasonably near public parking area before stopping.

Retains existing penalties for basic fleeing violations (up to $1,000 fine or 6 months jail), reckless fleeing (up to $5,000 fine or 5 years prison), and serious bodily injury or death resulting from fleeing (3-20 years or 5-40 years respectively).

Takes effect July 1, 2021.