MS HB149

Creates the crime of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Mississippi, prohibiting knowingly mutilating, facilitating mutilation, or transporting a female under 18 years old for the purpose of mutilation

Defines FGM to include excision, infibulation, or circumcision of female genitalia, narrowing of the vaginal opening, and harmful procedures such as pricking, piercing, incising, scraping, or cauterizing

Eliminates defenses based on religious beliefs, customs, rituals, or consent from the minor or parent/guardian, though allows exceptions for procedures necessary for physical health or medical purposes related to labor and birth

Classifies violations as aggravated assault, punishable by up to one year in county jail or up to 20 years in Department of Corrections custody

Requires licensed professionals who violate the act to be reported to their licensing board for unprofessional conduct, and allows additional criminal charges to be filed arising from the same incident