MS HB1045

Increases the number of authorized full-time assistant public defenders in the Seventh Circuit Court District and Capitol Complex Improvement District (CCID) Inferior Court from three to six positions.

Requires the six full-time assistant public defenders to be provided with office space, equipment, supplies, two investigators, two legal secretaries, and all reasonable operating expenses at least equal to or greater than the District Attorney of the Seventh Circuit Court District, subject to available legislative appropriations.

Brings forward existing statutes regarding appointment of public defenders and assistant public defenders (Section 25-32-3), compensation requirements (Section 25-32-5), and office space and expenses (Section 25-32-7) for possible future amendment.

Compensation for the new assistant public defenders must equal that of other full-time assistant public defenders in the Seventh Circuit Court District, subject to available appropriated funds.

Effective date is July 1, 2025.