Mississippi Senate Bill SB2041

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/24
• Refer: 1/16/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Female genital mutilation; prohibit and create civil cause of action.

Impact

The proposed legislation amends several sections of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to strengthen penalties related to child abuse. It establishes genital mutilation as a specific ground for terminating parental rights and creates a new statute of limitations, allowing victims to file claims up to ten years after the act. Additionally, it waives the usual tort claim limits for such cases and also waives sovereign immunity for claims arising from genital mutilation, encouraging victims to seek legal recourse.

Summary

Senate Bill 2041 aims to prohibit the mutilation of girls and young women and establishes civil remedies for victims. The bill takes a firm stance against genital mutilation, defining it extensively and categorizing it as child abuse. It includes clear definitions of mutilation procedures and mandates that any healthcare provider who discovers such acts must report them immediately to the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services and law enforcement. Failure to report suspected cases can lead to misdemeanor charges.

Contention

The bill has sparked significant discussion regarding its implications for parental rights and healthcare practices. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to protect young girls and prevent cultural practices that lead to serious physical and psychological harm. On the other hand, some opponents express concerns that the definitions of mutilation could be interpreted too broadly, potentially affecting cultural practices and parental freedoms. The balance between protecting minors and respecting cultural sensitivities remains a point of contention in the legislative discussions surrounding SB2041.