Mississippi House Bill HB915

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Overseas police service station; prohibit location of in this state.

Impact

The implementation of HB 915 is expected to have significant implications for state laws regarding law enforcement and public safety. It explicitly invalidates any policies or actions that may support the establishment of such overseas police stations. Law enforcement agencies are mandated to close any stations operating in violation of this bill immediately. Furthermore, there are substantial civil penalties imposed on any agency that does not comply, amounting to $20,000 per day until the situation is rectified.

Summary

House Bill 915 aims to prohibit any state agency, political subdivision, or educational institution in Mississippi from establishing or enabling overseas police service stations within the state. The legislation describes overseas police service stations as facilities managed by foreign governments for the purpose of monitoring their citizens in the U.S. Thus, the bill seeks to ensure that Mississippi remains free from foreign influence in local law enforcement, which is viewed as both a sovereignty and privacy issue by its proponents.

Contention

While supporters of HB 915, including its authors, argue that the bill protects Mississippi citizens from foreign surveillance and maintains local autonomy, critics raise concerns over the potential for misinterpretation or overreach in law enforcement practices. Opponents fear that the language in the bill could restrict international cooperation in law enforcement matters or even hinder local communities from addressing specific security needs. The degree to which this proposed legislation may affect relationships with international partners also remains a point of contention among various stakeholders.