MS HB270

Allows two or more municipalities within counties containing seven or more municipalities to establish a joint police department by resolution if their governing authorities determine it serves their best interests

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

Board has authority to hire a police commissioner, set the department budget, purchase equipment, adopt bylaws, acquire and dispose of property, and execute contracts

Requires filing an application with the Secretary of State along with a $50 filing fee to incorporate the joint department as a public body corporate

Funding is split proportionally among participating municipalities based on population, with larger municipalities paying a greater share; county boards of supervisors may also provide additional funding

Effective date: July 1, 2026