MS HB364

Adds disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity to the list of protected classes under Mississippi's hate crime enhancement statutes (Sections 99-19-301, 99-19-305, and 99-19-307)

Allows enhanced penalties for crimes committed because of a victim's actual or perceived disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity, in addition to existing protections for race, color, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, national origin, and gender

Maintains existing enhanced penalty provisions for crimes targeting law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians based on their employment status

Enhanced penalties may include imprisonment up to twice the authorized term or fines up to twice the authorized amount, or both, if a jury finds beyond a reasonable doubt the crime was committed because of the victim's protected characteristics

Effective date: July 1, 2024