MS HB834

Brings forward Section 93-5-1 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, which establishes twelve grounds for divorce including natural impotency, adultery, felony conviction, desertion, habitual drunkenness, drug abuse, and cruel treatment.

Expands the definition of "habitual cruel and inhuman treatment" to explicitly include spousal domestic abuse, which can be established through testimony of a single credible witness.

Defines spousal domestic abuse to include bodily injury, threats, intimidation, emotional or verbal abuse, forced isolation, sexual extortion, sexual abuse, stalking, or aggravated stalking that rises above unkindness or incompatibility.

Maintains existing requirements for divorce on grounds of incurable mental illness, including three years of institutional confinement, examination by two physicians, service of process on hospital superintendent and next blood relatives, and potential bond requirement for care.

Takes effect July 1, 2022.