MS HB56

Two or more municipalities in counties with seven or more municipalities may establish a joint police department by resolution if governing authorities determine it serves their citizens more efficiently and economically.

Joint police departments are governed by a board composed of the mayor from each participating municipality and the county sheriff, meeting at least quarterly.

The board has authority to hire a police commissioner, set budgets, purchase equipment and property, adopt bylaws, enter contracts, and manage all aspects of joint department operations.

Each participating municipality funds the joint department proportionally based on population, with larger municipalities paying greater shares; county boards of supervisors may also provide additional funding.

Joint departments are incorporated as public bodies corporate and politic upon filing an application with the Secretary of State, with a $50 filing fee, and have jurisdiction to provide police protection across all member municipalities.