MS HB157

Upgrades abuse of a vulnerable person from a misdemeanor to a felony, with punishment of 1-5 years in the Department of Corrections and a fine of $2,000-$5,000.

Expands criminal liability to include both willful and reckless acts or omissions that cause neglect, physical pain, injury, mental anguish, unreasonable confinement, or deprivation of necessary services to a vulnerable person.

Maintains separate penalties for exploitation of vulnerable persons based on value: misdemeanor if under $250, felony if $250 or more (up to 10 years imprisonment).

Creates a felony enhancement for a third or subsequent misdemeanor conviction of exploitation within 5 years, punishable by 1-5 years in the Department of Corrections and a $2,000-$5,000 fine.

Takes effect July 1, 2020.