MS HB1209

Establishes minimum imprisonment sentences for all shoplifting convictions: first offense at least 5 days, second offense at least 15 days, and third or subsequent offense at least 1 year.

Prohibits courts from suspending or reducing imprisonment sentences for shoplifting convictions and prevents prosecutors from offering sentence reductions as part of plea bargains.

Maintains existing fine structures: up to $1,000 for first offense, up to $2,500 for second offense, and up to $3,000 for third or subsequent felony convictions.

Allows prosecutors to aggregate shoplifted merchandise prices from the same or different stores within the same jurisdiction over a 30-day period to determine offense severity.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.