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MS HB294

Bill

Status

Failed

3/3/2026

Primary Sponsor

Christopher Bell

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Expands the Mississippi Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel to represent indigent parties not sentenced to death in post-conviction proceedings, if the director determines a statutorily alive claim exists and resources are available
  • Allows the office to continue representing clients in federal habeas corpus proceedings, whereas current law ends representation at the filing stage
  • Maintains existing requirements that office attorneys work exclusively for the office, cannot engage in outside legal practice, and cannot participate in capital murder trials or direct appeals
  • Prohibits office attorneys from lobbying for or against the death penalty, with violations subject to termination by the Governor (for the director) or by the director with Chief Justice approval
  • Takes effect July 1, 2026

Legislative Description

MS Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel; clarify the practice limitations of.

Last Action

Died In Committee

3/3/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary, Division B2/17/2026
Judiciary B1/7/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available