MS HB861

Amends Section 97-31-55 to provide immunity from alcohol-related charges for persons who seek assistance or report a sexual offense, in addition to existing protections for those seeking emergency medical assistance.

Adds new subsection (4) to Section 97-31-55 protecting persons whose pretrial release, probation, supervised release, or parole shall not be revoked based on incidents for which they qualify for immunity.

Amends Section 41-29-149.1 to extend good samaritan protections to persons who seek medical assistance for or report a sexual offense, protecting them from drug violation charges for controlled substance possession or use at the time of the offense or report.

Excludes from immunity protections any person alleged to have committed the sexual offense being reported, clarifying the law does not protect offenders themselves.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.