MS SB2191

Adds "disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity" to the list of protected characteristics that trigger enhanced penalties for hate crimes in Mississippi Code Section 99-19-301.

Applies enhanced penalties when a felony or misdemeanor is committed because of the actual or perceived disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity of the victim.

Updates Section 99-19-305 to include the new protected characteristics in the definition of victim classes for which juries must find the defendant acted with specific intent to target the victim.

Maintains existing enhanced penalty provisions for crimes targeting individuals based on race, color, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, or employment as law enforcement officer, firefighter, or emergency medical technician.

Effective date: July 1, 2024.