MS HB274

Requires family protection specialists with the same level of education and experience employed by the Department of Human Services to receive equal compensation regardless of the geographic area of the state where they work.

Applies the equal compensation requirement to both the Office of Family and Children's Services and the Division of Aging and Adult Services.

Establishes formal standards for family protection workers and specialists, including educational requirements (bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, nursing, family studies, or related field) and mandatory four-week training with certification testing.

Requires family protection specialists at senior, advanced, and supervisory grades to hold state licensure as a social worker in addition to baseline qualifications.

Sections 43-1-55 and 43-27-107 are set to expire on July 1, 2019, with the act taking effect July 1, 2016.