Enhanced penalties for crimes against certain persons; include certain CPS employees.

HB 1615 adds Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) social services employees to the list of protected individuals under enhanced sentencing laws. Specifically, it amends Mississippi Code Section 99-19-301 to include MDCPS workers in the Social Services Occupational Group as defined by the agency’s compensation plan. This means crimes like assault or threats committed against these employees would trigger higher penalties under existing law. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026, if enacted.