MS HB237

Expands mandatory child abuse reporting requirements under Section 43-21-353 to explicitly include abuse or neglect occurring in "out-of-home settings" such as licensed facilities, schools, and child care institutions

Requires the Department of Human Services to immediately refer out-of-home abuse reports to law enforcement and notify the district attorney within 48 hours, with licensing agencies required to investigate and report findings

Clarifies that school employees must report child abuse or neglect under the Youth Court Act (Section 43-21-353) rather than the general school unlawful activity reporting provisions

Requires mandatory reporters of sex crimes against minors (health care practitioners, clergy, teachers, child care providers, law enforcement, image processors) to also comply with Youth Court Act reporting requirements

Penalties for willfully violating child abuse reporting requirements include fines up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment up to one year