Bill > HB270

This bill, known as the "Joint Municipal Law Enforcement Act," allows two or more municipalities within any county that has at least seven municipalities to establish a joint police department if their governing bodies agree it's beneficial, considering efficiency, economy, and citizen protection. This new "joint department" will be overseen by a "board" composed of the mayor from each participating municipality and the county sheriff. The board will have broad powers, including hiring a police commissioner, setting the budget, purchasing equipment, and adopting rules and policies. To form the department, an application must be filed with the Secretary of State, detailing the participating municipalities and board members, and upon approval, the joint department will be officially incorporated. Participating municipalities and the county can loan property to the department, which will then have jurisdiction across all member municipalities for law enforcement. Funding for the joint department will be shared proportionally by each municipality based on its population, with the county board of supervisors also authorized to contribute funds.

Government Affairs

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB0270.xml