MS HB899

Authorizes sheriffs to request district attorneys to apply to circuit court judges for orders authorizing interception of wire, oral, and other communications when investigating felonies.

Requires written applications under oath to include details about the offense, location of interception, description of communications sought, identity of suspects, explanation of why normal investigative procedures failed, and prior application history.

Limits initial interception orders to 30 days maximum with possible 30-day extensions, requires recordings be sealed and preserved for at least 10 years, and prohibits judge who issued order from hearing related criminal prosecutions.

Restricts disclosure of intercepted communications to authorized uses by deputies and testimony under oath in court proceedings; prohibits use of intercepted evidence if disclosure violates the act.

Amends Mississippi Code Section 41-29-507 to permit sheriffs to conduct interceptions under this act in addition to existing Bureau of Narcotics authority, effective July 1, 2024.