MS HB1242

Clarifies that child support agreements and paternity acknowledgments must be filed with and approved by "the court having jurisdiction over such matters" rather than "said court" to ensure proper jurisdictional authority.

Allows written declarations under penalty of perjury from mothers to establish paternity when the alleged father fails to appear in court, eliminating the requirement for in-person testimony or presence at hearings.

Replaces references to sworn affidavits with "written declarations made under penalty of perjury" for paternity establishment documents submitted by mothers and alleged fathers.

Authorizes the Department of Human Services to issue administrative orders for genetic testing based on written declarations under penalty of perjury from either parent or the department, without requiring sworn affidavits.

Takes effect July 1, 2020.