MS HB1062

Expands the definition of "certified peer support member" to include current or retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency communications workers, civilian employees of first responding agencies, and emergency medical technicians who have received critical incident stress management training and are certified by the State Department of Health, State Fire Academy, or Department of Public Safety's Office of Standards and Training.

Extends privileged communication protections to both certified peer support members and participating emergency service responders, preventing them from being compelled to disclose contents of communications made during peer support events without consent of the responder.

Excludes privilege protection when the certified peer support member was an initial responder, witness, or party to the incident; when communication reveals intent to commit a crime and disclosure is necessary to prevent serious harm or threat to public safety; or when a crime has been committed and disclosed.

Establishes criminal penalties of up to $500 fine and/or up to six months in county jail for anyone who reveals privileged communications or threatens, intimidates, or attempts to compel disclosure of peer support event contents.

Effective date: July 1, 2023.