MS SB2525

Creates the Advocate Confidentiality Law protecting communications between victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking and their advocates from disclosure in civil, criminal, legislative, and administrative proceedings without prior written consent.

Defines "advocate" as employees, contractors, agents, or volunteers of victim service providers who complete a minimum of 20 hours of training in victimization dynamics, relevant laws, crisis intervention, and victim resources.

Allows disclosure of confidential communications only when: mandated by specific state statutes, necessary to prevent imminent risk of serious bodily harm or death, or pursuant to a valid court order after in-camera review determining the information is relevant, material, and unobtainable from other sources.

Prohibits any disclosure of shelter locations in civil or criminal proceedings and establishes a civil liability of $10,000 plus compensatory damages for advocates or providers who violate confidentiality provisions.

Amends Section 93-21-109 to replace domestic violence shelter confidentiality provisions with the new comprehensive advocate confidentiality law; effective July 1, 2019.