MS HB957

Creates the Health Disparities Council within the State Department of Health to make recommendations for reducing and eliminating 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 Senate members, 8 representatives from disproportionately affected communities, 8 ex officio state officials, and 20 representatives from specified medical, health, and advocacy organizations.

Council shall meet at least bimonthly, maintain open public meetings, and submit annual reports by July 1 to the Governor and legislative committees with data on health disparities, workforce diversity, program recommendations, and proposals for statutory and regulatory changes.

Eight community representatives shall receive per diem compensation at the rate authorized by Section 25-3-69 plus mileage reimbursement; all other council members serve without compensation.

Act takes effect July 1, 2011, with council members to be appointed by October 1, 2011.