MS SB2363

Prohibits peremptory challenges to remove prospective jurors based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or religious affiliation

Establishes a "substantial likelihood" standard where objections must be sustained if an objectively reasonable person would view protected characteristics as a factor in the challenge, without requiring proof of purposeful discrimination

Lists 13 presumptively invalid justifications for challenges, including distrust of law enforcement, neighborhood, receiving state benefits, non-native English speaker status, and employment in fields disproportionately occupied by protected groups

Requires de novo appellate review of denied objections, with automatic reversal and new trial if the denial was erroneous

Applies to criminal jury trials beginning January 1, 2027, and civil jury trials beginning January 1, 2029