Bill > HB1277

This bill authorizes local law enforcement agencies to enter into Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with independent nonpublic schools in Mississippi to provide School Resource Officers (SROs), specifically requiring at least one SRO per independent nonpublic school campus. The bill defines an "independent nonpublic school" as a non-public school that is a member of the Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS), accredited by a state or regional organization, and not primarily under the State Board of Education's authority. Any non-sworn security personnel employed by these schools must complete basic law enforcement training within two years of initial employment, or they will lose their authority to act as peace officers on school property. SROs are defined as sworn law enforcement officers assigned to school campuses to provide community policing and improve student safety. The bill also amends existing statutes 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 security, and provide specific liability protections for law enforcement agencies when officers are employed as SROs. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving schools and law enforcement agencies time to prepare for implementation.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1277.xml