MS HB201

Amends Section 97-5-39 of the Mississippi Code to create a new felony offense of child endangerment for any person who willfully, unlawfully, and with criminal intent places a child at unreasonable substantial risk of serious bodily harm or injury.

Establishes penalties of up to ten (10) years imprisonment in the Penitentiary or a fine of up to Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00), or both, for conviction of child endangerment.

Creates an enhanced offense for a parent, legal guardian or caretaker who knowingly permits a child to be present where controlled substance manufacturing, sales, or possession is occurring, punishable by up to ten (10) years imprisonment or Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) fine.

Increases penalties to up to twenty (20) years imprisonment or Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000.00) fine if the child endangerment involving controlled substances results in substantial harm to the child's physical, mental, or emotional health.

Effective date: July 1, 2010.