MS HB75

Establishes the "Mississippi Comprehensive Teen Pregnancy Prevention Act" requiring the Department of Human Services and Department of Health to develop programs promoting teen pregnancy prevention and educating youth about consequences of unprotected and underage sexual activity.

Department of Human Services shall develop programs promoting family communication about pregnancy prevention, educating communities about consequences of teen sexual activity, encouraging postponement of sexual activity, and providing medically accurate information about contraceptives and barrier methods.

State Department of Health shall develop programs including counseling to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, provide support services for pregnant teens, offer health and educational services, and train individuals for school-based support programs.

School nurses employed by local school districts are designated as "health service coordinators" and shall carry out the Department of Health program strategies; school nurses are prohibited from providing abortion counseling or referrals and may not dispense contraceptive devices in schools.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.