MS HB1420

Updates all references throughout the Mississippi Termination of Parental Rights Law from "Department of Human Services" to "Department of Child Protection Services"

Creates conception by an unlawful sexual act (rape or sexual battery under state law) as new grounds for terminating the father's parental rights, without requiring a criminal conviction

Adds conviction of human trafficking of a child under Section 97-3-54.1 to the list of offenses that may constitute grounds for terminating parental rights

Clarifies procedures for voluntary versus involuntary termination of parental rights, including allowing courts to waive guardian ad litem appointment when a parent executes a written voluntary release

Permits courts to exclude a child from termination hearings if determined to be in the child's best interest, rather than requiring consent from the guardian ad litem or legal counsel