MS HB234

Creates a seven-member Mississippi Medicaid Commission to replace the Division of Medicaid in the Office of the Governor, with four members appointed by the Governor and three by the Lieutenant Governor, all subject to Senate confirmation.

Commission members must have knowledge of Medicaid matters, cannot be healthcare providers or have financial interests in providers, cannot be elected officials, and are limited to two consecutive terms with staggered initial appointments ending in 2026, 2028, and 2030.

Executive Director appointed by the commission (not the Governor) must meet educational/experience requirements and serves at the pleasure of the commission; commission establishes Medical Care Advisory Committee, Drug Use Review Board, and Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee to advise on program operations.

All powers, duties, functions, records, property, and employees of the Division of Medicaid transfer to the new commission on July 1, 2025, with conforming changes throughout Mississippi Code sections governing Medicaid administration and service delivery.

Section 43-13-117 stands repealed July 1, 2028 and Section 43-13-145 stands repealed July 1, 2028, indicating these governance changes are temporary unless extended by future legislation.