MS HB1481

Extends the repeal date of Medicaid comprehensive care and services coverage provisions from June 30, 2018 to July 1, 2021.

Extends the repeal date of hospital assessment provisions for funding Medicaid, including disproportionate share hospital payments and Medicare upper payment limits, from June 30, 2018 to July 1, 2021.

Changes the name of the "Women's Health Protection and Preborn Pain Act" to the "Women's Health Protection and Fetal Heartbeat Act" and prohibits abortion if a detectable fetal heartbeat is present, with limited exceptions only when abortion is necessary to preserve the pregnant woman's life.

Creates criminal penalties for physicians who knowingly violate fetal heartbeat abortion prohibitions, with fines up to $25,000 and up to 2 years imprisonment; pregnant women are explicitly exempted from criminal liability.

Brings forward existing provisions on telemedicine licensing requirements and nurse practitioner practice authority for potential amendment.