MS HB1585

Circuit courts retain jurisdiction to proceed with civil commitment procedures for persons indicted on felony charges if found incompetent to stand trial and not restorable to competency in the foreseeable future, rather than referring cases to chancery courts.

Circuit courts may proceed with commitment procedures for persons with intellectual disabilities acquitted on grounds of intellectual disability, with the court determining if the person is dangerous to the community.

When circuit courts retain jurisdiction under these provisions, the order finding incompetency or dangerousness serves in place of the affidavit requirement, and prior psychiatric examinations may be waived if based on physician or psychologist evaluation.

Amendments clarify that circuit courts have jurisdiction alongside chancery courts in commitment proceedings, allowing flexibility in venue and procedural handling.

Effective date: July 1, 2024.