MS HB1541

Creates new crime of therapist engaging in sexual contact with patient or former patient (within 12 months of relationship ending), punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and/or $10,000 fine; consent is not a defense.

Defines "therapist" broadly to include physicians, psychologists, counselors, social workers, clergy, marriage/family therapists, and any person providing mental health services, whether licensed or not.

Adds violation of therapist sexual contact law as grounds for disciplinary action against licensed physicians, psychologists, professional counselors, social workers, and marriage/family therapists.

Provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for any person or entity reporting abuse, neglect, commercial sexual exploitation, or human trafficking in good faith, and requires mandatory reporters to report discovered adult abuse that occurred in childhood by persons associated with their organization.

Effective July 1, 2024.