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MS HB945
Bill
Status
Failed
2/3/2026
Primary Sponsor
Fred Shanks
Click for details
AI Summary
- Amends Mississippi Code Sections 99-39-23 and 99-39-27 to explicitly exempt DNA testing requests from the bar on second or successive post-conviction relief motions
- Allows prisoners to file additional post-conviction motions when untested biological evidence exists or when previously tested evidence can be subjected to more advanced DNA testing that could demonstrate reasonable probability of a different conviction outcome or lesser sentence
- Applies even to petitioners who pled guilty, nolo contendere, or confessed to a crime, provided DNA testing could yield exculpatory results
- Permits successive DNA testing petitions if the petitioner asserts new grounds for relief related to DNA testing not previously presented or the availability of more advanced DNA technology
- Takes effect July 1, 2026
Legislative Description
Requests for DNA testing; clarify that they are excepted from bar on second or successive motions for post-conviction relief.
Last Action
Died In Committee
2/3/2026
Committee Referrals
Judiciary B1/16/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available