MS HB1354

Amends Section 97-35-47 to explicitly include false reports of child abuse or neglect to the Department of Human Services as unlawful, with penalties of up to one year in county jail and/or fines up to $5,000.

Requires defendants convicted of making false reports to pay restitution to law enforcement agencies for reasonable investigation and prosecution costs.

Creates civil liability allowing persons to recover damages, including reasonable attorney fees and costs, against those who knowingly and willfully make false reports of child abuse or neglect.

Defines a false report as one lacking reasonable support, unsupported by credible evidence, unlikely to succeed, or completely untenable.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.