MS HB117

Creates the Health Disparities Council within the State Department of Health to make recommendations for reducing racial and ethnic disparities in health care access and outcomes, including disparities related to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, infant mortality, HIV/AIDS, asthma, and other conditions.

Council shall consist of 40 members including 3 House representatives, 3 state senators, 8 community members from affected areas, and 20 representatives from specified health care organizations and associations, with two legislative cochairmen.

Council must meet at least bimonthly, adopt bylaws, establish committees as needed, and maintain quorum of 10 members; all meetings are open to the public with opportunity for public comment.

Council shall submit annual reports by July 1 to the Governor and legislative committees containing data on health disparities, workforce diversity, program recommendations, statutory/regulatory proposals, and recommendations for improving cultural competency in health care.

Community members appointed under the bill receive per diem compensation at the rate authorized by Section 25-3-69 and reimbursement for mileage and expenses; all other members serve without compensation.