MS SB2093

Amends Section 97-5-39 to make felonious child abuse apply when a child tests positive at birth for a controlled substance not prescribed by a physician, with penalties of up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $5,000 for the mother.

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

Brings forward Section 43-21-353 requiring mandatory reporting of child abuse by physicians, attorneys, nurses, social workers, law enforcement officers, and school employees to the Department of Human Services and youth court intake unit.

Establishes that reporters of suspected child abuse have immunity and their identity is confidential except when disclosed to law enforcement or prosecutors with court authorization.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.