MS HB562

Amends Section 43-47-19 of Mississippi Code to add a new subsection (4) establishing that a third or subsequent misdemeanor conviction for vulnerable person abuse, neglect, or exploitation within a 5-year period constitutes a felony.

Felony conviction under this provision results in imprisonment of not less than 1 year nor more than 5 years in the Department of Corrections and a fine of not less than $2,000 nor more than $5,000.

Existing misdemeanor penalties remain unchanged: abuse/neglect up to $1,000 fine or 1 year jail time; exploitation under $250 up to $5,000 fine or 1 year jail time; exploitation of $250 or more is already a felony with up to 10 years imprisonment.

Clarifies that lawful medical procedures performed in the usual scope of practice are not violations.

Effective date: July 1, 2011.