Bill > HB1609

This bill revises the laws in Mississippi concerning driving under the influence (DUI), specifying the conditions under which a person is considered to be driving under the influence and adjusting the penalties for various offenses. It clarifies that impairment from intoxicating liquor, other substances, or drugs can constitute DUI, and sets specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits for adults, those under 21, and commercial drivers. The bill outlines escalating penalties for repeat offenders, including increased fines, jail time, and mandatory community service, with third and subsequent offenses being felonies. It also introduces stricter penalties for aggravated DUI cases involving death or serious injury, and for DUI with a child passenger, creating a separate offense for child endangerment. The bill also modifies provisions related to nonadjudication, which is a process where a court withholds a guilty verdict and sentencing, allowing offenders to complete certain requirements to avoid a conviction on their record, and introduces new requirements for those seeking nonadjudication, including mandatory jail time and license restrictions for commercial drivers. Finally, it addresses expunction, allowing for the removal of certain DUI convictions from a person's record under specific conditions, and clarifies that driving under the influence of medical cannabis, if it impairs driving ability, is also covered by these DUI laws.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB1609.xml