MS HB123

Prohibits courts from modifying child custody orders based on a parent's separation from the child due to active military duty, unless the parent has died.

Prohibits courts from considering a parent's separation from a child due to active military duty as a factor in best interest determinations during custody proceedings.

Applies the military duty protections to both initial custody determinations under Section 93-5-24 and custody modification proceedings under Section 93-11-65.

Provides exceptions allowing custody modifications when circumstances genuinely change, but active military duty service alone cannot be the basis for such modifications.

Directs courts to refer to Section 93-5-34 for custody and visitation rules specifically governing military temporary duty, deployment, or mobilization situations.