Back the Badge Act

Beginning July 1st, people in Mississippi who commit crimes against law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency workers will face doubled penalties.
Governor Phil Bryant signed House Bill 645, the Back the Badge Act, meant as a response to killings of police officers last year in Dallas and Baton Rouge.
The law expands Mississippi’s existing hate crimes law which enhances penalties for crimes committed because of a victim’s race, religion, national origin, or gender. The measure says it shouldn’t be interpreted to limit free speech, addressing concerns about people being punished for protesting police behavior.
During earlier debates, some lawmakers raised concerns about harsh treatment of African-Americans by police officers.