Nonviolent Firearm Offense Early Intervention Program Act; enact.

SB 2814 would require courts to refer first-time offenders under age 21 convicted of nonviolent firearm offenses (such as unlawful possession, concealed carry violations, or minor-related offenses) to a state-run rehabilitation program instead of imposing standard criminal penalties. The program, managed by Mississippi’s Department of Mental Health, mandates trauma assessments, therapy, family involvement, firearm safety education, and (for ages 18-21) educational or employment participation. Completing the program could satisfy the offender’s criminal sentence, with exemptions only for proven risks like violent tendencies or prior program failures. The bill defines "nonviolent" broadly to cover many firearm possession cases but explicitly excludes offenses involving threats, discharge, or violence.