MS HB387

Changes simple assault penalties in Mississippi Code Section 97-3-7 to give judges discretion in assessing fines by replacing mandatory language with permissive language.

Modifies simple assault (subsection 1(a)) to allow fines up to $500 or jail time up to 6 months at judicial discretion, rather than as mandatory punishment.

Modifies enhanced simple assault on protected persons (subsection 1(b)) to allow fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to 5 years at judicial discretion.

Increases maximum fine for simple domestic violence convictions from $500 to $1,000 while maintaining judicial discretion over fines and 6-month jail term.

Effective date: July 1, 2025.