MS SB2477

Vendors and subcontractors providing goods or services funded through the Rural Health Transformation Program (Public Law No. 119-21) must be selected through a competitive bidding process and cannot use emergency purchase procedures or bidding exemptions

Subgrantees receiving grants through the program are exempt from competitive bidding requirements for items such as workforce development programs, technology purchases, medical equipment, and facility upgrades

Priority for subgrant awards must be given to entities in CMS-designated super rural zip codes, Health Professional Shortage Areas, counties with high maternal/infant mortality or lacking obstetric services, and counties with per capita income at or below $45,000

Subgrantees that have not received direct state or federal appropriations for medical equipment or capital expenditures in the past 5 years shall receive priority for grant awards

Agencies awarding Rural Health Transformation Program funds must provide quarterly reports to the Legislature on funds expended and subgrantee awards