Public defenders; authorize new assistants and provide for office space and expenses for those in Hinds County.

HB 1045 would increase the number of full-time assistant public defenders in Hinds County (Seventh Circuit Court District) by authorizing six new positions. It requires that these new staff receive office space, equipment, two investigators, two legal secretaries, and operating expenses at least equal to the District Attorney’s office, subject to legislative funding. The bill directly affects public defenders serving criminal defendants in Hinds County court cases by expanding their staffing and resource support. The legislation was introduced but died in committee on February 4, 2025, and did not become law.