HB 132 Summary

• State Health Officer shall establish a program to reduce health disparities across gender and racial groups by 2026 in priority areas including infant mortality, cancer screening, HIV/AIDS, immunizations, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and accidental injuries/violence.

• State Health Officer must conduct a statewide assessment using focus groups, needs assessment surveys, and key informant interviews to establish baseline data and measurable outcomes in partnership with community-based organizations.

• State Health Officer shall contract with a Mississippi-based entity specializing in health disparities with at least four years of experience and provide $250,000 in funding for needs assessment, outcome development, and program management.

• State Health Officer must identify and select community-based organizations as planning partners and develop a comprehensive plan including morbidity/mortality data, assessment results, measurable outcomes, and a community grant program to decrease health disparities.

• State Health Officer shall conduct biennial evaluations and submit biennial reports to the Legislature on program activities, evaluation data, and outcome measures; effective July 1, 2020.