MS SB2739

Requires nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers to obtain a permit from the State Department of Health before providing transportation services for elderly, disabled, or Medicaid patients in Mississippi

Mandates driver qualifications including fingerprint and annual criminal background checks, sex offender registry checks, motor vehicle records checks, drug screens, and OIG exclusion list verification

Requires the Department to establish standards for vehicle safety, inspection, maintenance, specialized equipment for disabled persons, and minimum insurance requirements

Authorizes the Department to revoke permits, impose fines on non-compliant providers, and seek injunctions against those operating without valid permits

Allows existing NEMT providers to continue operating without a permit until July 1, 2023, with full permit requirements taking effect after that date