Bill > HB821

This bill authorizes local law enforcement agencies to enter into Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with independent nonpublic schools to employ School Resource Officers (SROs), specifically targeting schools that are members of the Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) or accredited by state, regional, or national organizations. The bill requires a minimum of one SRO per independent nonpublic school campus and mandates that any non-sworn security personnel must complete basic law enforcement training within two years of initial employment or risk losing their peace officer authority. The legislation defines an SRO as a sworn law enforcement officer assigned to school campuses to provide community policing and improve school safety. Additionally, the bill amends existing state laws to allow municipalities, municipal police departments, and sheriff's departments to contract with independent nonpublic schools for law enforcement protection, permit off-duty officers to use official uniforms and equipment while providing school security, and modify liability provisions for officers working in school security roles. The changes aim to enhance school safety by providing more structured and trained security personnel at independent nonpublic schools, with the provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0821.xml