MS SB2781

Exempts youth court investigative records from the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983, bringing youth courts into alignment with law enforcement agency confidentiality protections.

Adds youth courts, chancery courts sitting as youth courts, and the Department of Child Protection Services to entities whose investigative reports are exempt from public disclosure, though these agencies retain discretion to release records voluntarily.

Brings forward multiple sections of Mississippi Code related to youth court confidentiality (Sections 43-21-251, 43-21-255, 43-21-257, 43-21-259, 43-21-261, 43-21-263, 43-21-265, and 43-21-267) and public records definitions for potential future amendments.

Extends confidentiality protections to child victims by expanding language to protect "a child" in addition to victims, and clarifies information sharing between public bodies for criminal law enforcement and child protection purposes.

Becomes effective July 1, 2025, with Section 43-21-261 (confidentiality disclosure provisions) set to expire July 1, 2026.