MS SB2211

Prohibits parties from using peremptory challenges to remove prospective jurors based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religious affiliation, or perceived membership in these groups.

Allows parties or trial courts to object to improper peremptory challenges; the challenging party must then state reasons for the challenge, which the court evaluates using a "substantial likelihood" standard that considers unconscious bias in addition to intentional discrimination.

Establishes a list of presumptively invalid reasons for peremptory challenges (including distrust of law enforcement, neighborhood, employment status, dress, and demeanor-based reasons) unless the party can prove by clear and convincing evidence the reason is unrelated to the prospective juror's protected group membership.

Authorizes courts to remedy improper challenges by quashing the venire and starting jury selection anew, declaring a mistrial, seating the challenged juror, providing additional challenges, or imposing other appropriate remedies.

Applies to all criminal jury trials with jury selection beginning January 1, 2022, and to all civil jury trials with jury selection beginning January 1, 2025; appellate courts review denials of objections de novo and must reverse and remand for new trial if the objection was erroneously denied.