MS SB2257

Reduces the distance requirement for enhanced penalties for selling controlled substances near schools from 1,500 feet to 500 feet for the building/outbuilding itself.

Removes the 1,000-foot distance requirement around school property entirely.

Adds requirement that the offense must occur "while knowingly" present and "at a time when persons under eighteen (18) years of age are reasonably expected to be present" to trigger enhanced penalties.

Adds exemption allowing offenses committed inside a private residence without minors present to avoid enhanced penalties.

Repeals Section 41-29-147 entirely, eliminating enhanced penalties for second and subsequent drug offenses statewide.

Effective date: July 1, 2023.