MS HB386

Requires persons making reports of suspected child abuse or neglect to the Department of Human Services to provide their name, address, and telephone number in the written report.

Amends Section 43-21-353 to add the reporter's contact information as a mandatory element of child abuse and neglect reports, in addition to existing requirements about the child, injuries, and suspected perpetrator.

Requires persons reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable persons to provide their name, address, and telephone number as part of reports made under Section 43-47-7.

Maintains confidentiality protections by specifying that reporter identity shall not be disclosed except to law enforcement, prosecutors, or by court order, with violations remaining a misdemeanor offense.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.