MS HB470

Creates the Health Disparities Council within the State Department of Health to make recommendations for reducing racial and ethnic disparities in health care access and outcomes, including disparities related to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, infant mortality, HIV/AIDS, asthma, and lupus.

Establishes a 40-member council consisting of 3 House members, 3 Senate members, 8 ex officio state officials, 8 members from disproportionately affected communities, and 20 members appointed from nominees submitted by specified health organizations and medical centers.

Requires the council to meet at least bimonthly, maintain public meetings with public comment opportunities, and submit annual reports by July 1 to the Governor and relevant legislative committees containing data on disparities, recommendations for programs and services, and proposals for statutory and regulatory changes.

Authorizes the council to make recommendations on increasing racial and ethnic diversity in the health care workforce and to coordinate with the Office of Health Disparity Elimination.

Provides per diem and expense reimbursement only for the 8 community members appointed under subsection (2)(i), while other council members serve without compensation.