MS HB1433

Adds new subsection (3) to Section 97-37-37 to impose an additional 5-year consecutive prison sentence for using or displaying a firearm during gang-related activity, which cannot be reduced or suspended.

Amends Section 97-44-19 to increase penalties for gang activity participation by replacing the previous one-half maximum sentence provision with an additional term equal to the full underlying offense sentence.

Requires all gang activity enhancement sentences to run consecutively to the underlying offense sentence across subsections (1) through (4) of Section 97-44-19.

Maintains judicial discretion under Section 97-44-19(5) to suspend enhanced punishment in unusual cases where the interests of justice warrant, allowing community service or adolescent offender programs as alternatives.

Effective date of July 1, 2024.