MS HB1262

Amends Mississippi Code sections 43-21-105, 43-15-13, 43-21-609, and 43-21-613 to replace terminology "durable legal custody" with "durable legal guardianship" throughout youth court and child welfare statutes.

Clarifies that durable legal guardianship requires the child to have been in physical custody of the proposed legal guardian for at least one year under Department of Human Services supervision before the arrangement can take effect.

Exempts cases where durable legal guardianship is granted from ongoing disposition review hearing requirements, and releases the Department of Human Services from oversight and monitoring responsibilities.

Establishes durable legal guardianship as an alternative disposition when temporary relative placement, adoption, or foster care placement is determined inappropriate, unavailable, or not in the child's best interest.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.