JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – The Mississippi Supreme Court has stepped in with a temporary fix to a new law that took effect this week, impacting the state’s child protection system.
The law keeps state agencies from disclosing records involving children without exceptions. It created concern that the change would impact the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services (MDCPS) and the courts that oversee cases of abused or neglected youth.
MDCPS filed an emergency motion with the Mississippi Supreme Court on Wednesday, July 1, and on Thursday, July 2, the court issued a temporary order.
The high court’s order provides a temporary fix by suspending penalties for violating confidentiality. The order will remain in place until July 24.
On Friday, July 3, MDCPS praised the court’s action in a statement.
“MDCPS greatly appreciates the Supreme Court’s efforts,” the MDCPS statement said. “MDCPS will continue to work with the judiciary, the Legislature, county and state partners, families, foster families, advocates, and law enforcement under this temporary order until a long-term solution is implemented.”
Want more WLBT news in your inbox? Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.
See a spelling or grammar error in our story? Please click here to report it and include the headline of the story in your email.
Copyright 2026 WLBT. All rights reserved.
