MS SB2605

Amends Mississippi Code Section 97-35-47 to explicitly include false reports of child abuse or neglect as unlawful, making such reports to the Department of Human Services or law enforcement punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or a fine up to $5,000.

Requires courts to order defendants to pay restitution to law enforcement agencies for reasonable investigative and prosecution costs related to false reports.

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

Defines a false report as one with no rational supporting argument, unsupported by credible evidence, that a reasonable person could not expect to succeed, or that is completely untenable.

Effective date: July 1, 2018.