Misdemeanors; authorize alternate sentencing for recidivist misdemeanants.

SB 2082 defines a "recidivist misdemeanant" as someone convicted of three or more misdemeanors within ten years. It requires courts to sentence such individuals to a minimum of six months in county jail (up to three years) or a $2,000 fine, instead of allowing suspended sentences. The bill removes judicial authority to suspend sentences for these offenders, amending Mississippi Code Section 99-19-25 to restrict this option. This law would apply to repeat misdemeanor offenders in Mississippi starting July 1, 2026, but the bill died in committee in February 2026.