Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1638

Introduced
2/13/23  
Refer
2/13/23  
Engrossed
2/15/23  
Refer
2/20/23  
Enrolled
3/28/23  

Caption

Appropriation; Capital Post-Conviction Counsel, Office of.

Impact

The passage of HB 1638 is expected to have a significant impact on state law as it ensures that funds are designated for the legal support of individuals facing capital charges and their appeals. Given the complexities and potential for miscarriages of justice in capital cases, this allocation may foster greater judicial fairness and integrity within the state's legal system. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of maintaining a well-funded and operational post-conviction counsel office, which can advocate for the rights and representation of those convicted of capital crimes.

Summary

House Bill 1638, also known as the Appropriation for the Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel, aims to allocate financial resources to the Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel of Mississippi for the fiscal year 2024. Specifically, it appropriates $2,015,303 from the State General Fund for expenses related to the office's operations. Additionally, it allocates $215,258 from the State Treasury for the same purpose. The bill underscores the state's commitment to ensuring legal representation for individuals involved in capital convictions, thereby supporting their rights to adequate post-conviction legal counsel.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 1638 appears to be positive. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have recognized the importance of providing necessary resources for capital post-conviction counsel, reflecting a bipartisan acknowledgment of the need for fair legal representation. The bill's swift passage without recorded opposition, as evidenced by the unanimous Senate vote (52-0), indicates broad support for these expenditures and the work that the Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel performs.

Contention

While no notable points of contention were recorded during the legislative process for HB 1638, the discussion surrounding funding for post-conviction representation often raises broader questions about state budget priorities and the allocation of resources in a justice system dealing with capital punishment. In an environment marked by concerns over budget constraints, the funding of post-conviction services may occasionally face scrutiny, particularly in regard to how funds are sourced and the financial implications for other areas of the state budget.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB1926

Appropriation; Capital Post-Conviction Counsel, Office of.

MS HB1759

Appropriation; Capital Post-Conviction Counsel, Office of.

MS HB33

Appropriation; Capital Post-Conviction Counsel, Office of.

MS HB294

MS Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel; clarify the practice limitations of.

MS HB1218

MS Office of Capital Post-Conviction Counsel; clarify the practice limitations of.

MS HB37

Appropriation; State Public Defender, Office of.

MS HB1763

Appropriation; State Public Defender, Office of.

MS SB2020

Appropriation; Counselors, Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional.

MS SB3083

Appropriation; Counselors, Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional.

MS SB3024

Appropriation; Counselors, Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

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MD HB390

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MD HB0390

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MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

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PA HB1330

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PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1220

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.