MS HB1073

Amends Section 97-5-39 of the Mississippi Code to revise elements of the crime of contributing to the delinquency of a minor and related child abuse offenses.

Expands Section 97-5-39(4)(a) to include endangerment when a child is present where any person is selling, manufacturing, or possessing controlled substances with intent to manufacture, sell, or possess as prohibited under Sections 41-29-139 or 41-29-313.

Maintains existing penalties including misdemeanor charges (up to $1,000 fine and one year jail) for basic delinquency contributions, and felony charges with sentences up to life imprisonment for felonious child abuse depending on the severity of harm.

Allows judges to suspend sentences for subsections (1) and (2) and require treatment at approved facilities instead, with eligibility limited to one occurrence per person.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.