Malicious prosecution; require officials or employees involved to pay all costs associated with.

HB 426 requires elected or appointed Mississippi officials who participate in a malicious prosecution (unjustified legal action causing harm) to personally pay all associated costs, including legal fees and expenses. If a court finds malicious prosecution, the official faces penalties like termination from their position, disbarment (if they're a lawyer), and suspension of retirement benefits until costs are paid. The governing authority employing the official must calculate and report all costs to the presiding judge, who then issues a binding order for the official to reimburse the government. This law aims to hold officials financially accountable for abusive legal actions, effective July 1, 2025.