MS HB396

Reenacts sections 41-3-1.1 through 41-3-19 establishing the State Board of Health with 11 members appointed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General with staggered terms, including 5 licensed physicians and 6 public health professionals.

Establishes the position of Executive Officer (State Health Officer) appointed by the board for a 6-year term, requiring either a physician with a graduate degree in public health or a physician deemed qualified by the board.

Grants the State Board of Health authority over public health matters including disease control, food safety, water quality, milk sanitation, child care licensure, and telemedicine regulation, with specific power to issue permits and charge fees for services.

Creates a Local Governments and Rural Water Systems Improvements Board to administer revolving loan and grant programs for counties, municipalities, and water organizations, with loans repayable over up to 15 years.

Extends the repeal date of these sections from June 30, 2014, to July 1, 2018, allowing continuation of the State Board of Health structure and Department of Health operations.