MS HB1547

Establishes mandatory allocation formula for monies paid by defendants in criminal cases (effective July 1, 2024): restitution first, then court costs, then assessments, then fines and penalties.

Amends Section 99-37-5 to specify that the first monies paid in a case must be credited toward restitution owed to victims.

Amends Section 99-37-3 to require courts to consider a defendant's future ability to pay when determining whether to order restitution and the method of payment.

Amends Section 25-7-27 to remove the requirement that uncollected marshal and constable fees be paid from the first proceeds received by the court from the defendant.

Effective date: July 1, 2024.