MS SB2683

Replaces the term "durable legal custody" with "durable legal guardianship" throughout Mississippi Code sections 43-15-13, 43-21-105, 43-21-609, and 43-21-613 to align with federal funding requirements.

Maintains the definition and legal effect of durable legal guardianship as a court-ordered status giving guardians responsibility for a child's physical custody, care, nurture, food, shelter, education, and medical care, subject to residual rights of natural parents or guardians.

Exempts cases where durable legal guardianship is granted from Department of Human Services oversight, monitoring responsibilities, and disposition review hearings, with the department released from physical and legal custody.

Applies the terminology change to neglected and abused child cases where temporary placement, adoption, or foster care is inappropriate or unavailable, requiring at least one year of physical custody under Department supervision before guardianship takes effect.

Takes effect July 1, 2015.