MS HB1475

Creates the Concern for Children with Sickle Cell Disease Task Force to study the growing incidence of sickle cell disease and make recommendations to the legislature on identification, treatment, and accommodation of affected individuals and families.

Task force comprises 13 members including three parents of children with sickle cell disease, representatives from the State Department of Education, State Department of Health, Sickle Cell Anemia Association, medical associations, University of Mississippi Medical Center, a private pediatrician, and a licensed nurse.

Task force shall review best practices from other states, assess current Mississippi school district and medical services, identify funding sources and educational guidelines, and evaluate higher education's role in developing workforce skills related to sickle cell disease.

State Department of Health shall provide staff and support for the task force to conduct its work.

Task force must hold its first meeting by April 1, 2013, and file a report with relevant legislative committees and state agencies by December 1, 2013.