MS SC502

Former Mississippi State Senator James L. "Jim" Bean died on July 7, 2013, at age 80; he represented Forrest, Lamar and Perry Counties from 1986 to 2000.

Served as Chairman of the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee from 1996 to 2000, handling legislation on Medicaid, welfare reform, nursing home care, and foster care.

Sponsored "The BEANie BABY" bill concerning foster care for children, which became a model adopted by all 50 states and changed thousands of children's lives.

Helped establish the Mississippi Primary Health Care Association and the Federally Qualified Health Clinic Support Program, and received the organization's first Lifetime Achievement Award.

Legislature expresses sympathy to his surviving family, including his wife Peggy of 58 years, and commends his exemplary public service and leadership in the Mississippi Senate.