MS SB2203

Creates the crime of loitering for lingering, remaining, or prowling in public places or others' premises without apparent reason under circumstances warranting alarm, with specific enumerated circumstances including near schools, in harassing manner, for unlawful gambling, prostitution, controlled substances, or alcohol consumption.

Requires law enforcement to offer persons suspected of loitering under subsection (1)(a) an opportunity to identify themselves and explain their presence before arrest, unless flight or impracticable circumstances prevent it.

Provides defenses to loitering prosecution if the officer failed to afford identification opportunity or if the defendant's explanation was true and would have dispelled the alarm when given.

Establishes loitering as punishable by up to 30 days in county jail, a $500 fine, or both.

Creates the crime of aggressive panhandling for soliciting donations by intentional touching without consent, obstructing a person's path, following a departing person, or making statements causing reasonable fear of harm, with first offense punishable by up to 30 days/500 dollars and subsequent offenses by up to 90 days/$1000.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.