Nonviolent misdemeanors; require citations in lieu of arrest with limited exceptions.

SB 2803 requires Mississippi law enforcement to issue a written citation (not make an arrest) for most nonviolent misdemeanor offenses when officers have probable cause to believe a crime occurred. It directly affects people charged with minor offenses like traffic violations or petty theft, unless specific exceptions apply. Key exceptions include violent misdemeanors (such as domestic violence or weapon-related offenses), refusal to provide ID, outstanding warrants, or if the person is under supervision for a felony. The bill also overrides local policies that mandate arrests for nonviolent misdemeanors and specifies that citations require a written promise to appear in court. This changes current practice by reducing low-level arrests for minor crimes while maintaining arrest authority for serious or high-risk situations.