MS HB1292

Upgrades abuse of a vulnerable person from a misdemeanor to a felony offense under Mississippi Code Section 43-47-19.

Expands criminal liability to include acts or omissions done "recklessly" in addition to "willfully" when causing neglect, physical pain, injury, mental anguish, unreasonable confinement, or deprivation of necessary services to vulnerable persons.

Establishes felony penalties of a fine of not less than $1,000 and imprisonment of not less than one year in the Department of Corrections custody for abuse convictions.

Maintains separate misdemeanor penalties for exploitation of vulnerable persons valued under $250, and felony penalties for exploitation valued at $250 or more.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.