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MS SB2130

MS SB2130
Mental examinations; require state to pay costs for indigent defendants where examination is court-ordered.


summary

Introduced
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
02/03/2026

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

An Act To Amend Section 99-13-11, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Provide That Any Cost Or Expense In Connection With A Mental Examination Of An Indigent Defendant Shall Be Paid By The State; And For Related Purposes.

AI Summary

This bill amends Mississippi Code Section 99-13-11 to ensure that the state covers the costs of court-ordered mental examinations for indigent defendants, meaning those who cannot afford to pay for such evaluations, when their mental competency to stand trial for a felony is in question. Previously, these costs were borne by the county where the criminal case was located, but this change shifts the financial responsibility to the state for defendants who qualify as indigent, aiming to provide equal access to necessary legal and psychological assessments regardless of a defendant's financial situation.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Died In Committee (on 02/03/2026)

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