MS HB1190

Creates the Mississippi First Responder PTSD and Suicide Prevention Task Force to assess mental health needs of first responders and develop a strategic plan and proposed legislation.

Task force composition includes 21 members: 3 Senate and 3 House committee members, representatives from State Department of Health, Department of Mental Health, Department of Human Services, Department of Public Safety, Office of Attorney General, plus designated representatives from first responder organizations including police, sheriffs, firefighters, law enforcement officers, National Guard, and ambulance services.

Task force duties include assessing first responder mental health needs, developing support programs and services, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, reducing mental health stigma, ensuring program sustainability, and recommending changes to state and local laws and policies.

Task force must meet at least monthly, with appointments made within 30 days and a final report with findings and recommendations submitted to the Legislature before December 1, 2025, at which time the task force is dissolved.

Members receive no compensation for service, and state agencies must provide facilities, assistance, information and data upon request of the task force chair.