On July 1 of this year, if a child from the age of 4 to 7 is being transported in a passenger vehicle, that child must be in a “booster seat” when traveling. (Click on the “booster seat” text to go directly to the legislation passed this year.) There additional height and weight recommendations in addition to the age ranges. The change in the child restraint section of the mandatory seat belt law was supported by the Highway Patrol and sponsored by the Mississippi Pediatric Doctors Association. The goal is to clearly protect the lives of these young children in the event of an accident. A violation of this new statute carries the same $25 fine that accompanies the other seatbelt violations. To any parents out there reading this, remember - BUCKLE UP THOSE BABIES, and that includes that precious cargo who is between the ages of 4 an 7. Buckle Up Mississippi - it’s proven to save lives!

Here’s a sneak peak at one of the hot issues at the Capitol that could impact state troopers. Since so many of you have called about this issue, we thought it best to update everyone here on the website. This week, the Mississippi State Senate passed SB 2680 which allows a number of state agencies to go out from under the control of the State Personnel Board for a period of one year. The Department of Public Safety is one of those agencies. Read More . . .

Now is the time that we begin our planning session for the 2008 Mississippi Legislative Session. While they do not go in until early January, there is a lot of work that needs to take place between now and that time. First, we have to identify what our legislative priorities will be and have those approved by the MSTA board. Second, we then research what state law says about that issue and begin drafting legislation. Finally, we’ll look to see what other states are doing and begin finding legislative sponsors for those issues that the board adopts. Our “Move Over” bill was the brainchild of a red leg, and that idea was then presented to the board. We developed our version of that bill after reviewing numerous other state laws. So, if you have an idea that we should explore, let us know. You never know - next year, YOU might be the one at a bill signing with the governor! Read More . . .

WOW! What a great session! We got a $2,500 pay raise, Move Over becomes law on July 1, stun guns purchasers must get a background check, litter fine goes up by $50 and dedicated to fallen law enforcement memorial, new trooper school, tougher guidelines for sex offenders, stronger penalties for felons caught with a gun - and much much more.

Be sure to thank your legislators when you see them over the summer for their support of Mississippi State Troopers. Thanks to each of you who made phone calls to your legislators during this past session about our pay raise - every time you called - that legislator would let me know that they heard from you. YOUR VOICE IS HEARD LOUDLY when you use it! Kevlar and Larry - as always - great working with you and what an outstanding year at the Capitol! Remember, if you have any suggestions for ideas that we can use for the 2008 session, let me know. Read More . . .