Probation or post-release suspension; may be revoked if new felony is committed while individual is on.
Impact
The law, if enacted, will significantly affect how courts handle probation violations in Mississippi. It empowers judges to revoke a probationer's status if new felonies are committed, thereby potentially incurring harsher penalties on individuals who are meant to be under supervision but continue to offend. This change could lead to increased incarceration rates for those failing to comply with legal expectations during their probationary period while emphasizing public safety. Furthermore, it aligns with broader efforts in the criminal justice system to address recidivism and reinforce the consequences of felony crimes.
Summary
House Bill 1397 aims to amend Section 47-7-37.1 of the Mississippi Code of 1972. The bill introduces a provision allowing for the revocation of probation, post-release supervision, or suspension of a sentence if an individual commits a new felony crime before their probation or supervision commences. This provision seeks to strengthen the legal framework surrounding probation by creating stricter consequences for individuals who engage in further criminal activity before their supervised release begins. By clarifying that such actions can trigger a revocation, the bill is intended to deter further felony offenses during this vulnerable period.
Contention
Potential points of contention could arise from those who advocate for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation efforts. Critics may argue that the bill may disproportionately affect individuals who are trying to reintegrate into society after serving time. The ability to revocate probation based on new offenses, even before the commencement of probation, could be viewed as punitive rather than rehabilitative. In contrast, supporters of the bill may feel that it is a necessary measure to uphold the integrity of the probation system by preventing individuals who have demonstrated a disregard for the law from benefiting from leniency afforded by supervision.
Practice of medicine; creating the Supervised Physicians Act; limiting scope of supervised practice; directing specified Boards to promulgate certain rules; requiring collaborative practice arrangements; creating certain exemptions; effective date.
Board of Behavioral Sciences: marriage and family therapists: clinical social workers: professional clinical counselors: supervision of applicants for licensure via videoconferencing.