MS HB151

Expands mandatory reporting requirement for suspected sex crimes against minors under age 16 to include health care practitioners, clergy members, teachers, child care providers, law enforcement officers, and commercial image processors.

Requires law enforcement officers who receive a mandatory report to file an affidavit against the offender on behalf of the State if probable cause exists that a sex crime against a minor has been committed.

Mandates collection of fetal tissue during abortions on minors under age 14 and umbilical cord blood from minors under age 16 giving birth when it would be reasonable to suspect the pregnancy resulted from a sex crime against a minor.

Establishes penalties for failure to report: first offense up to $500 fine, second offense up to $1,000 fine or 30 days imprisonment, and third or subsequent offense up to $5,000 fine or one year imprisonment.

Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for mandatory reporters acting in good faith and for health care practitioners and facilities complying with forensic collection regulations.