MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1999 Regular Session

To: Judiciary

By: Senator(s) Horhn

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 99-5-15, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO EXEMPT PROFESSIONAL BAIL AGENTS FROM THE PROVISION REQUIRING THE APPROVAL OF THE SURETY BY A SHERIFF OR OTHER OFFICER PRIOR TO RELEASING A CRIMINAL DEFENDANT; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. Section 99-5-15, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

99-5-15. It is the duty of the sheriff or other officer having custody of such defendant, upon his compliance with the order of the committing court or officer, to release him from custody; and he shall approve the sureties on the bond, except admitted and authorized fidelity and surety insurance companies and professional bail agents, acting as surety, and for that purpose may examine them on oath, or take their affidavit in writing, and may administer such oath.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 1999.