MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2023 Regular Session
To: Judiciary B
By: Representative Harness
AN ACT TO REQUIRE EACH CIRCUIT, CHANCERY, JUSTICE, MUNICIPAL, COUNTY AND YOUTH COURT TO ESTABLISH SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROTECTING JUDGES, STAFF, AND ANY MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC PRESENT IN COURT BUILDINGS DURING LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; TO PROVIDE THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE GUIDELINES; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:
SECTION 1. Each circuit, chancery, justice, municipal, county and youth court shall establish safety guidelines by August 1, 2023, that promote the safety of judges, staff, and any person present before, during and after any legal proceedings. The guidelines shall, at a minimum, require:
(a) Cameras or a security guard at all entrances and exits;
(b) A security guard present for each legal proceeding;
(c) A policy that requires annual emergency response training for employees and staff;
(d) Fire alarms in each court room and at every entrance and exit of the building; and
(e) A firearms policy that is posted at each entrance and exit.
SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after its passage.