MS SB2262

Amends Section 97-5-39 to establish felonious child abuse when a child tests positive at birth for a controlled substance not prescribed by a physician.

Mother convicted under this provision shall be sentenced to imprisonment in the Department of Corrections for not more than five (5) years and/or a fine not to exceed $5,000.

Amends Section 43-21-105 to define an "abused child" to include a child who tests positive at birth for a controlled substance unless the substance was prescribed by a physician.

Brings forward Section 43-21-353 regarding mandatory reporting of child abuse by designated professionals (physicians, nurses, social workers, teachers, law enforcement, etc.) and provides immunity protections for reporters.

Effective date: July 1, 2016.