MS HB656

Amends habitual offender sentencing laws to apply only to felonies defined as crimes of violence under Section 97-3-2, excluding nonviolent offenders from mandatory maximum sentences and life imprisonment provisions.

Modifies Section 99-19-81 to require maximum imprisonment sentences only for persons with three violent felony convictions, with court discretion to deviate if documented in sentencing order.

Modifies Section 99-19-83 to require life imprisonment without parole or early release only for persons with three prior violent felony convictions where at least one is a crime of violence.

Repeals Section 41-29-147, eliminating enhanced penalties for second or subsequent drug offenses.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.