MS HB412

Expands the definition of "vulnerable person" under the Vulnerable Persons Act to include any minor who is 10 years old or younger and cannot perform normal daily living activities or provide their own care or protection due to their age.

Doubles penalties for crimes of sexual abuse, exploitation, abuse, and battery committed against minors 10 years old or younger under the Vulnerable Persons Act, including sexual battery, indecent contact, and felonious abuse.

Doubles penalties for failure to report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of minors 10 years old or younger in care facilities, increasing the punishment to up to $1,000 fine or 12 months in county jail.

Doubles penalties for simple and aggravated assault committed against vulnerable minors 10 years old or younger, increasing simple assault penalties to up to $1,000 fine or 5 years imprisonment and aggravated assault to up to $5,000 fine or 30 years imprisonment.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.