Mississippi House Bill HB241

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/22
• Refer: 1/4/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Local governments; prohibit from imposing penalties or fines on security companies when false security alarm occurs.

Impact

The proposed legislation seeks to amend existing statutes in the Mississippi Code, specifically sections 19-3-40 and 21-17-5, which govern the powers and responsibilities of municipal and county authorities. If enacted, the bill would limit the authority of local governments to penalize security businesses, with the intention of reducing the regulatory burden placed on these companies. Proponents of the bill argue that such penalties often discourage businesses from investing in security systems, thus potentially leaving local communities less protected.

Summary

House Bill 241 aims to prohibit local governments from imposing civil penalties or fines on businesses engaged in the security industry for false alarms, provided these alarms are not caused by improper installations, defective equipment, or operational errors attributed to the businesses themselves. The bill specifically defines 'false alarm' to include scenarios such as human error or mechanical malfunctions that trigger a police response without an actual emergency. This measure seeks to protect alarm companies from financial liabilities that can arise from false alarms generated through no fault of their own.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB241 may arise from the perspectives of local authorities who argue that maintaining the ability to penalize businesses for habitual false alarms is essential for public safety. Local governments may feel that losing this regulatory tool could lead to an increase in unwarranted police responses to false alarms, straining law enforcement resources. Opponents of the bill might contend that the measure prioritizes the interests of businesses over community safety and effective local governance.