MS HB868

Authorizes the State Department of Health to apply for federal grants under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) to fund school-located influenza vaccination programs for children ages 5-18.

Directs the department to seek grants from specific PPACA sources including Community Transformation Grants (Section 4201), Prevention and Public Health Investment Fund (Section 4002), preventive care education funding (Section 4004), wellness demonstration projects (Section 1201), and other federal or private prevention and vaccination funding.

Requires the State Department of Health to make information about available federal grant and appropriations opportunities under PPACA publicly available via its website to local government agencies, public health departments, school districts, and nonprofit organizations.

Establishes legislative findings that school-based influenza vaccination programs can reduce transmission to vulnerable populations, decrease school absenteeism, and improve pandemic preparedness while addressing funding and logistical challenges.

Takes effect July 1, 2011, with a sunset provision repealing the act on June 30, 2011.