MS HB228

Changes simple assault penalties to allow judges discretion in assessing fines up to $500 by replacing "shall" with "may" in sentencing language.

Increases maximum fine for simple assault on protected persons (law enforcement, healthcare workers, elderly, etc.) from $500 to $1,000 while maintaining judicial discretion.

Increases maximum fine for simple domestic violence from $500 to $1,000 while authorizing judicial discretion in fine assessment.

Does not change imprisonment penalties, which remain up to six months for simple assault and up to six months for simple domestic violence.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.