MS HB496

Authorizes the Department of Public Safety to establish a specialized unit to coordinate efforts to reduce motor vehicle theft and increase response to such crimes

Creates the "Motor Vehicle Theft Recovery Fund" in the State Treasury, funded by legislative appropriations, federal monies, donations, and criminal assessments, with no more than 10% or $100,000 annually for administrative expenses

Requires a five-member committee (including municipal and county law enforcement officers, a state highway patrol officer, a carjacking victim, and an Attorney General designee) to develop a strategic plan for responding to motor vehicle theft within six months

Adds a $2,000 assessment for grand larceny convictions involving property valued at $25,000 or more, to be deposited into the fund

Adds a $1,000 assessment for carjacking convictions and a $2,000 assessment for armed carjacking convictions, to be deposited into the fund