Grooming; revise age of child when person is in a position of trust.

HB 1294 revises Mississippi law to increase the age threshold for enhanced penalties when a person in a position of trust (such as a teacher, coach, or parent) commits child grooming. Currently, the law applies to children under 16 for general grooming offenses, but this bill changes the age to 18 for those in trusted roles. Under the amendment, individuals in such positions who groom children under 18 face felony penalties of 5-10 years in prison or fines up to $20,000 - up from 2-10 years for standard grooming. The bill does not alter the definition of "grooming" but strengthens consequences for trusted adults exploiting minors. It takes effect July 1, 2026.