MS HB1572

Establishes a 7-member Rare Disease Task Force within the Mississippi Rare Disease Advisory Council, with members appointed by the Governor (3), Lieutenant Governor (1), Speaker of the House (1), and the Council (1 insurance industry representative), plus the Council chairman serving as task force chair

Task force will identify gaps in care, coverage limitations, workforce shortages, and systemic barriers affecting rare disease patients, and advise policymakers on evidence-based solutions

Requires review of alternative funding programs (manufacturer assistance, charitable contributions, third-party aid used instead of direct insurance coverage) and their impact on access to rare disease therapies

Department of Insurance must consult with the task force on coverage barriers, and the Council may accept complaints about alternative funding practices and refer substantiated complaints for investigation

Annual written report due December 1 to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Speaker of the House, and legislative committees covering task force findings, therapy access trends, and policy recommendations; effective July 1, 2026