MS SB2034

Establishes civil liability for persons who knowingly, willfully and maliciously make false reports of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect.

Persons who counsel others to make false reports with malice are also subject to civil liability.

Liable parties must pay damages suffered by the subject of the report, including reasonable attorney fees and costs.

Defines a false report as one with no rational supporting argument, no credible evidence, no reasonable expectation of success, or completely untenable claims.

Effective date: July 1, 2024.