AN ACT TO ENACT THE MISSISSIPPI MATERNAL HEALTH PROTECTION ACT; TO REQUIRE PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAMS TO PROVIDE A MINIMUM OF 12 MONTHS OF POSTPARTUM CARE, INCLUDING MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT; TO REQUIRE TIMELY POSTPARTUM FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS BY PUBLIC HOSPITALS AND CLINICS; TO REQUIRE PUBLIC HEALTH FACILITIES TO ADOPT CERTAIN EVIDENCE-BASED MATERNAL SAFETY PROTOCOLS AND TO REPORT MATERNAL MORBIDITY DATA TO THE DEPARTMENT; TO AUTHORIZE THE DEPARTMENT TO ISSUE CORRECTIVE ACTION PLANS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH FACILITIES THAT FAIL TO IMPLEMENT SAFETY PROTOCOLS; TO AUTHORIZE THE MATERNAL MORTALITY REVIEW COMMITTEE ESTABLISHED UNDER SECTION 41-112-1 TO REVIEW ALL PREGNANCY-RELATED DEATHS WITHIN THE STATE, TO IDENTIFY SYSTEMIC CAUSES ASSOCIATED WITH SUCH DEATHS AND TO PUBLISH AN ANNUAL REPORT WITH RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PREVENTING SUCH DEATHS; TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO ESTABLISH A MATERNAL EMERGENCY TRANSPORTATION FUND AND TO OUTLINE OBJECTIVES AND APPROVED FUND USES; TO SET FORTH LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS; TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO ENACT INTO LAW THE INTERSTATE DENTAL AND DENTAL HYGIENE LICENSURE COMPACT AND PROVIDE THAT THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI ENTERS THE COMPACT WITH OTHER STATES AND JURISDICTIONS THAT JOIN IN THE COMPACT; TO PROVIDE THAT THE PURPOSE OF THE COMPACT IS TO EXPEDITE LICENSURE AND INCREASE ACCESS TO DENTAL HEALTH CARE THROUGH LICENSURE BOARDS ACTING IN COOPERATION; TO DEFINE TERMS; TO CREATE A COMPACT AND COMMISSION; TO SET FORTH DUTIES OF COMPACT MEMBER STATES AND POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION; TO SET FORTH APPLICATION AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS AND MATTERS RELATED TO COMPACT LICENSE PRIVILEGE ISSUANCE; TO PROVIDE FOR JURISDICTION OVER COMPACT LICENSE PRIVILEGE HOLDERS, FEES, MILITARY WAIVER, INVESTIGATIONS, INFORMATION REQUESTS, RULEMAKING FUNCTIONS OF THE COMMISSION, COMPACT OVERSIGHT, ENFORCEMENT AND PROCEDURES, DISPUTE RESOLUTION, MEMBER STATE ELIGIBILITY, EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE COMPACT, WITHDRAWAL, COMPACT DISSOLUTION, SEVERABILITY AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE COMPACT PROVISIONS, BINDING EFFECT OF THE COMPACT AND RULES OF ORDER TO BE APPLIED AT MEETINGS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 73-9-1, 73-9-23, 73-9-35 AND 73-9-41, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM TO THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO REPEAL SECTIONS 41-7-171 THROUGH 41-7-209, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH ARE THE MISSISSIPPI HEALTH CARE CERTIFICATE OF NEED LAW OF 1979; TO AMEND SECTIONS 23-15-625, 25-41-7, 35-1-19, 41-3-15, 41-4-18, 41-9-11, 41-9-23, 41-9-68, 41-9-209, 41-9-210, 41-71-7, 41-71-19, 41-73-5, 41-75-1, 41-75-5, 41-75-9, 41-75-25, 41-77-1, 41-77-5, 41-77-21, 41-77-23, 41-77-25, 43-11-9, 43-11-19, 43-13-117.5 AND 57-117-5, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, AND TO REPEAL SECTION 41-9-311, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM TO THE PRECEDING PROVISION; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 41-58-7, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE LICENSURE QUALIFICATIONS FOR RADIOLOGIST ASSISTANTS; TO AUTHORIZE A RADIOLOGIST ASSISTANT TO NOTIFY HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS TREATING THE PATIENT THAT THE ORDERED IMAGING PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN COMPLETED; TO PROVIDE THAT A RADIOLOGIST ASSISTANT MAY ONLY COMMUNICATE HIS OR HER INITIAL OBSERVATIONS TO THE RADIOLOGIST; TO AUTHORIZE A RADIOLOGIST ASSISTANT TO COMMUNICATE THE RADIOLOGIST'S FINAL OR PRELIMINARY INTERPRETATION TO OTHER HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 73-9-5, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS FOR DENTAL HYGIENISTS PRACTICING UNDER GENERAL SUPERVISION; TO UPDATE CPR AND CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS; TO AUTHORIZE DENTAL HYGIENE PRACTICE UNDER GENERAL SUPERVISION IN LICENSED NURSING HOMES, INSTITUTIONS FOR THE AGED OR INFIRM AND CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES; TO ALLOW PATIENTS IN LICENSED NURSING HOMES, INSTITUTIONS FOR THE AGED OR INFIRM AND CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES TO BE SEEN FOUR TIMES CONSECUTIVELY UNDER GENERAL SUPERVISION; TO LIMIT THE SERVICES THAT MAY BE PROVIDED IN SUCH SETTINGS TO NONINVASIVE ROUTINE SERVICES; TO REVISE LIMITATIONS ON SUPERVISION AND PATIENT ELIGIBILITY; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 41-9-39, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE HOSPITALS, FROM OCTOBER 1 THROUGH MARCH 1 OF EACH YEAR, TO OFFER, PRIOR TO DISCHARGE, IMMUNIZATIONS AGAINST INFLUENZA VIRUS TO ALL INPATIENTS 50 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER THAT ARE AT AN INCREASED RISK OF INFLUENZA COMPLICATIONS, UNLESS CONTRAINDICATED AND CONTINGENT UPON THE AVAILABILITY OF THE VACCINE; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-111, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ESTABLISH PHARMACY TECHNICIAN-TO-PHARMACIST RATIO REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSED PHARMACIES THAT ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND FOR THOSE THAT ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC; TO DIRECT THE MISSISSIPPI BOARD OF PHARMACY TO ADOPT RULES AND REGULATIONS NECESSARY TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE; TO EXCLUDE FROM BEING COUNTED TOWARD THE RATIO CERTAIN SUPPORTIVE PERSONNEL WHO ARE NOT PERFORMING THE FUNCTIONS OF A REGISTERED PHARMACY TECHNICIAN; TO AUTHORIZE A LICENSED PHARMACY TO EXCEED THE PHARMACY TECHNICIAN-TO-PHARMACIST RATIO IF ALL PHARMACY TECHNICIANS IN EXCESS OF THE APPLICABLE RATIO ARE NATIONALLY CERTIFIED BY A CERTIFICATION PROGRAM RECOGNIZED BY THE BOARD; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-1, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE THAT NOTICE OF ALL STATE BOARD OF COSMETOLOGY AND BARBERING (BOARD) MEETINGS BE GIVEN AS PROVIDED IN SECTION 25-41-1 ET SEQ.; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-2, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE VARIOUS DEFINITIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-3, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT THE BOARD SHALL USE THE STANDARDS ESTABLISHED BY THE STATE PERSONNEL BOARD IN DETERMINING WHETHER OR NOT THE BOARD'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MAY RECEIVE COMPENSATORY LEAVE AND IN DETERMINING WHETHER OR NOT EMPLOYEES OF THE BOARD MAY BE GRANTED ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE WITH PAY; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-11, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT THAT LICENSE OWNERS MUST DISPLAY THE LICENSE IN A CONSPICUOUS PLACE IN HIS OR HER PRINCIPAL OFFICE, PLACE OF BUSINESS OR EMPLOYMENT AT ALL TIMES; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-12, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CLARIFY THE BOARD'S AUTHORITY REGARDING EXAMINATIONS; TO AMEND SECTIONS 73-7-13, 73-7-13.1, 73-7-18 AND 73-7-21, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PROVISIONS GOVERNING APPRENTICESHIPS; TO REQUIRE THAT EXAMINATIONS AND ALL TESTING REQUIREMENTS BE CLEAR, OBJECTIVE AND UNIFORMLY APPLIED; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-15, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO EXAMINATION FOR AN INSTRUCTOR'S LICENSE; TO INCREASE THE LENGTH OF A TEMPORARY INSTRUCTOR'S PERMIT FROM 90 DAYS TO SIX MONTHS; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-16, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT THE REQUIRED BOND, CASH, OR A CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT SHALL BE FOR THE PROVISION OF INDEMNIFICATION OF ANY PERSON SUFFERING LOSS AS THE RESULT OF ANY FALSE CERTIFICATION, SCHOOL CLOSURE, ANY FRAUD OR MISREPRESENTATION USED ON BEHALF OF THE PRINCIPAL IN PROCURING SUCH PERSON'S ENROLLMENT IN A COURSE OF INSTRUCTION, INCLUDING REPAYMENT OF TUITION PAID IN ADVANCE BY ANY STUDENT; TO EXEMPT ANY ENTITY PROTECTED BY IMMUNITY UNDER THE MISSISSIPPI TORT CLAIMS ACT FROM BEING REQUIRED TO OBTAIN A SURETY BOND IN FAVOR OF THE BOARD OR TO FILE CASH, A CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT OR GOVERNMENT BONDS IN LIEU THEREOF WHEN MAKING APPLICATION FOR A SCHOOL LICENSE; TO DELETE PROVISIONS PROVIDING FOR ISSUANCE OF TEMPORARY LICENSES, PROBATIONARY LICENSES, CONDITIONAL LICENSES AND NONCONDITIONAL LICENSES FOR SCHOOLS; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-17, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT BY JANUARY 1, 2027, THE BOARD SHALL PROMULGATE RULES AND REGULATIONS TO ENABLE LICENSURE OF MOBILE SALON/BARBER SHOPS; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-19, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT FROM AND AFTER THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ACT THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2026, ANY COSMETOLOGIST, BARBER, ESTHETICIAN, NAIL TECHNICIAN OR INSTRUCTOR WHO HAS AT LEAST TEN YEARS' EXPERIENCE UNDER THEIR LICENSE AND WHOSE LICENSE HAS BEEN EXPIRED FOR NOT MORE THAN TEN YEARS SHALL NOT HAVE TO TAKE THE EXAMINATION IN ORDER TO RENEW THEIR LICENSE, BUT SHALL RENEW THEIR LICENSE UPON PAYMENT OF THE REQUIRED RENEWAL FEE, ANY ADJUDICATED FINES, AND COMPLETION OF ANY CONTINUING EDUCATION THAT IS APPLICABLE TO THE LICENSE RENEWAL AS REQUIRED BY THE BOARD; TO PROVIDE THAT FROM AND AFTER JANUARY 1, 2027, A COSMETOLOGIST, BARBER, ESTHETICIAN, NAIL TECHNICIAN OR INSTRUCTOR WHO HAS AT LEAST TEN YEARS' EXPERIENCE UNDER THEIR LICENSE AND WHOSE LICENSE HAS BEEN EXPIRED FOR NOT MORE THAN FIVE YEARS SHALL NOT HAVE TO TAKE THE EXAMINATION IN ORDER TO RENEW THEIR LICENSE, BUT SHALL RENEW THEIR LICENSE UPON PAYMENT OF THE REQUIRED RENEWAL FEE, ANY ADJUDICATED FINES, AND A DELINQUENT FEE FOR EACH YEAR THAT THEIR LICENSE HAS BEEN EXPIRED AND COMPLETION OF ANY CONTINUING EDUCATION THAT IS APPLICABLE TO THE LICENSE RENEWAL AS REQUIRED BY THE BOARD; TO REQUIRE CERTAIN CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSES FOR INITIAL LICENSE RENEWAL; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-23, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE PROVISIONS REGARDING LICENSURE BY RECIPROCITY; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-27, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO MODIFY THE PENALTIES FOR CLASS A, CLASS B AND CLASS C VIOLATIONS; TO PROVIDE THAT UNLICENSED PRACTICE OR PRACTICING ONE OF THE PROFESSIONS REGULATED BY THE BOARD WITHOUT A LICENSE OR TEMPORARY PERMIT BY AN INDIVIDUAL WHO HAS OTHERWISE SATISFACTORILY PASSED THE PRESCRIBED EXAMINATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 73-7-13, 73-7-13.1, 73-7-18 OR 73-7-21, DURING ANY PERIOD OF TIME IN WHICH NO BOARD OR FORMAL BOARD RULES AND REGULATIONS WERE IN PLACE SHALL NOT BE SUBJECT TO ANY DISCIPLINE OR FINES; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-29, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM TO THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT; TO PROVIDE THAT AN APPLICANT FOR AN INITIAL LICENSE FOR COSMETOLOGIST, BARBER, NAIL TECHNICIAN OR ESTHETICIAN, SHALL NOT BE CHARGED A FEE IF THE APPLICANT PRODUCES DOCUMENTATION OF HIS OR HER PARTICIPATION IN CERTAIN BENEFIT PROGRAMS; TO PROVIDE THAT REFUNDS ON OVERPAYMENT OF FEES WILL BE MADE SUBJECT TO RULES AND REGULATIONS PROMULGATED BY THE STATE FISCAL OFFICER; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-31, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REPLACE THE PHRASE "FACIAL TREATMENTS" WITH "ESTHETICS SERVICES"; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-33, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO DELETE LANGUAGE REGARDING THE APPAREL THAT MUST BE WORN WHILE AT WORK; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-35, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT A LICENSEE MAY RENDER SERVICES TO ANY PERSON WHO MAY BE CONFINED TO A SKILLED NURSING FACILITY, A LONG-TERM CARE HOSPITAL OR A COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL REHABILITATION FACILITY; TO PROVIDE THAT LICENSEES MAY RENDER SERVICES TO DECEASED PERSONS AWAY FROM THEIR SHOP; TO AMEND SECTIONS 73-7-9 AND 73-7-37, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM; TO CREATE A NEW SECTION WITHIN CHAPTER 7, TITLE 73, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO AUTHORIZE REGISTRATION AS INACTIVE STATUS FOR ANY LICENSED COSMETOLOGIST, BARBER, ESTHETICIAN OR NAIL TECHNICIAN WHO IS REGISTERED BUT NOT ACTIVELY PRACTICING IN THIS STATE; TO AMEND SECTION 73-7-14, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE ISSUANCE OF MASTER COSMETOLOGIST, BARBER, NAIL TECHNICIAN AND ESTHETICIAN LICENSES, TO PROVIDE FOR THE REPEAL OF SUCH SECTION ON THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ACT; TO BRING FORWARD SECTIONS 73-7-5, 73-7-7 AND 73-7-25, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR PURPOSES OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENT; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 43-13-117, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE MEDICAID AND PRIVATE INSURANCE COMPANIES REGULATED BY THE STATE TO COVER AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION DEVICES FOR CHILDREN WITH NONSPEAKING OR LIMITED VERBAL COMMUNICATION REGARDLESS OF COMPLEX MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO DIRECT THE MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES (DEPARTMENT), FOR ANY CHILD IN THE CARE AND CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT, TO DETERMINE WITHIN 60 DAYS AFTER ENTRY INTO CARE WHETHER THE CHILD IS RECEIVING OR IS ELIGIBLE FOR CERTAIN EARNED FEDERAL BENEFITS; TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO APPLY FOR SUCH BENEFITS ON BEHALF OF THE CHILD IF A DETERMINATION IS MADE THAT THE CHILD IS OR MAY BE ELIGIBLE; TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO APPLY TO BECOME THE CHILD'S REPRESENTATIVE PAYEE IF NO OTHER SUITABLE CANDIDATE IS AVAILABLE; TO PROVIDE THE DEPARTMENT'S OBLIGATIONS IF APPOINTED TO SERVE AS THE REPRESENTATIVE PAYEE; TO PROVIDE THAT THE DEPARTMENT SHALL DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A SUCCESS SEQUENCE SAVINGS AND DISBURSEMENT PLAN FOR EACH CHILD WITH CONSERVED EARNED BENEFITS; TO ENABLE A CHILD TO ACCESS A PORTION OF CONSERVED BENEFITS UPON COMPLETION OF SPECIFIC MILESTONES THAT PROMOTE INDEPENDENCE AND FINANCIAL READINESS; TO PROVIDE FOR THE RELEASE OF ANY REMAINING CONSERVED BENEFITS UPON TERMINATION OF THE DEPARTMENT'S CUSTODY OR LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE CHILD; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO BE KNOWN AS THE MISSISSIPPI RURAL REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITIES ACT OF 2026; TO DECLARE THE LEGISLATIVE INTENT REGARDING THE PURPOSE OF REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITIES; TO CREATE THE DELTA REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY; TO PROVIDE FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF SUCH AUTHORITY; TO PROVIDE FOR PARTICIPATION AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY AND THE OWNERS OF COMMUNITY HOSPITALS FOR THE HOSPITALS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY; TO PROVIDE THAT PARTICIPATING COMMUNITY HOSPITALS WILL NO LONGER BE GOVERNED BY THE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL LAWS BUT WILL BE GOVERNED BY THE AUTHORITY BOARD; TO PROVIDE THAT THE AUTHORITY BOARD MAY APPOINT A CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE AUTHORITY; TO SPECIFY THE POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER; TO PROVIDE THAT THE AUTHORITY BOARD SHALL HAVE ALL OF THE POWERS, AUTHORITY, RIGHTS, PRIVILEGES AND IMMUNITIES CONFERRED ON THE OWNERS AND THE BOARDS OF TRUSTEES OF COMMUNITY HOSPITALS; TO PRESCRIBE ADDITIONAL POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY; TO PROVIDE THAT THE AUTHORITY SHALL BE DEEMED A "GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY" AND "POLITICAL SUBDIVISION" FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE TORT CLAIMS ACT; TO AUTHORIZE THE AUTHORITY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM AS A POLITICAL SUBDIVISION; TO PROVIDE THAT THE REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY SHALL BE TREATED AS A NONSTATE GOVERNMENTAL HOSPITAL AND SHALL HAVE ALL RIGHTS, PRIVILEGES AND ENTITLEMENTS OF A NONSTATE GOVERNMENTAL HOSPITAL FOR PURPOSES OF THE MISSISSIPPI MEDICAID PROGRAM; TO DIRECT THE DIVISION OF MEDICAID TO CREATE AND IMPLEMENT A SUPPLEMENTAL PAYMENT PROGRAM TO SUPPORT THE ESSENTIAL SERVICES AND OPERATIONS OF THE DELTA REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY; TO PROVIDE THAT ANY CONSOLIDATION OR COLLABORATION INVOLVING A REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY AND OTHER PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR NONPROFIT HOSPITALS, HEALTH CARE FACILITIES OR PROVIDERS SHALL BE IMMUNE FROM LIABILITY UNDER THE FEDERAL AND STATE ANTITRUST OR COMPETITION LAWS TO THE FULLEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW; TO AMEND SECTIONS 11-46-1, 41-7-173, 41-13-11, 41-13-15, 41-13-19, 41-13-35, 41-13-47 AND 41-13-101, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM TO THE PRECEDING PROVISIONS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO CREATE THE NATIONAL STATUARY HALL SELECTION COMMISSION TO STUDY AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE SELECTION OF TWO NEW HISTORIC FIGURES TO REPRESENT MISSISSIPPI IN THE NATIONAL STATUARY HALL COLLECTION AT THE UNITED STATES CAPITOL; TO PROVIDE THAT THE RECOMMENDATIONS SHALL BE FIGURES WHO BRING HONOR TO ALL MISSISSIPPIANS AND REFLECT THE DEMOGRAPHICS OF THE STATE AS A WHOLE; TO PRESCRIBE THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE COMMISSION AND TO PROVIDE FOR ITS ORGANIZATION AND MEETINGS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE COMMISSION SHALL MAKE WRITTEN RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNOR AND THE LEGISLATURE NOT LATER THAN NOVEMBER 30, 2026; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 69-25-201, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO RENAME THE "MISSISSIPPI HEMP CULTIVATION ACT" AS THE "MISSISSIPPI HEMP ACT," AND TO EXPAND ITS PURPOSE TO REGULATING THE MANUFACTURE, PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION AND SALE OF CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS OTHER THAN BEVERAGES; TO AMEND SECTION 69-25-203, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO DEFINE CERTAIN TERMS; TO AMEND SECTION 69-25-207, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO TRANSFER THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE MISSISSIPPI HEMP ACT FROM THE COMMISSIONER AND DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND COMMERCE TO THE STATE HEALTH OFFICER AND THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH; TO PROVIDE THAT THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR LICENSING RETAILERS, WHOLESALERS, MANUFACTURERS AND PROCESSORS OF CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS OTHER THAN BEVERAGES; TO SET THE ANNUAL LICENSE FEES TO BE COLLECTED BY THE DEPARTMENT AND TO DIRECT THAT SUCH FEES BE DEPOSITED INTO THE STATE GENERAL FUND; TO AMEND SECTION 69-25-213, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REDUCE, FROM A CONCENTRATION OF MORE THAN 0.5% TO A CONCENTRATION OF MORE THAN 0.3%, THE THRESHOLD FOR VIOLATIONS OF PRODUCING CANNABIS SATIVA L. WITH A CERTAIN DELTA 9 TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL CONCENTRATION ON A DRY WEIGHT BASIS; TO AMEND SECTION 69-25-217, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROHIBIT THE SALE, OR MANUFACTURE OR PRODUCTION FOR SALE, IN MISSISSIPPI OR TO MISSISSIPPI CONSUMERS, OF PRODUCTS DERIVED FROM ANY CANNABIS PLANT, EXCEPT AS AUTHORIZED UNDER THE MISSISSIPPI HEMP ACT, THE LIGHT ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE STATUTES, OR THE MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CANNABIS ACT; TO PROHIBIT THE MANUFACTURE, PRODUCTION OR SALE OF ANY HEMP PRODUCT CONTAINING SYNTHETIC CANNABINOID; TO PROHIBIT THE SALE OF ANY CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCT TO ANY PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF 21 YEARS; TO CREATE NEW CODE SECTIONS TO REQUIRE THAT LABELS FOR HEMP PRODUCTS BE APPROVED BY THE DEPARTMENT; TO REQUIRE THAT A FINALIZED SAMPLE OF FINISHED HEMP PRODUCTS HAVE A CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS; TO PROVIDE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS FOR CONSUMABLE FOOD MANUFACTURING DISTRIBUTORS; TO REQUIRE A LICENSED ENTITY TO PROVIDE A QUARTERLY REPORT TO THE DEPARTMENT; TO REQUIRE THE DEPARTMENT TO IMPLEMENT AN ELECTRONIC REPORTING SYSTEM; TO PROVIDE THAT ANY CONSUMABLE FOOD MANUFACTURING DISTRIBUTOR OR CONSUMABLE HEMP MANUFACTURER, PROCESSOR, WHOLESALER OR RETAILER THAT FAILS TO TIMELY REPORT HEMP PRODUCTS PURCHASED OR SOLD IN MISSISSIPPI, OR THAT PURCHASES OR SELLS ANY UNLAWFUL HEMP PRODUCT, SHALL BE SUBJECT TO A FINE AS PRESCRIBED BY THE DEPARTMENT, AND TO DIRECT THAT SUCH FINES BE DEPOSITED INTO THE STATE GENERAL FUND; TO IMPOSE A 3% EXCISE TAX ON CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS AND TO DIRECT THAT PROCEEDS OF SUCH TAX BE DEPOSITED INTO THE STATE GENERAL FUND; TO AMEND SECTIONS 69-25-211, 69-25-215, 69-25-219, 69-25-221 AND 69-25-223, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CONFORM TO THE PRECEDING PROVISIONS; TO AMEND SECTION 41-137-45, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PERSON OR ENTITY TO SELL OR TRANSFER PRODUCTS DERIVED FROM ANY CANNABIS PLANT TO INDIVIDUALS IN THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, WITH CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS; TO PROVIDE PENALTIES FOR A PERSON OR BUSINESS ENTITY THAT UNLAWFULLY SELLS CANNABIS DERIVED PRODUCTS; TO REVISE CERTAIN INTENT REQUIREMENTS; TO CREATE NEW CODE SECTIONS TO REQUIRE EVERY MANUFACTURER OF A CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCT THAT IS SOLD FOR RETAIL SALE IN MISSISSIPPI TO EXECUTE AND DELIVER TO THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE A CERTIFICATION FORM THAT SEPARATELY LISTS EACH BRAND NAME, CATEGORY, PRODUCT NAME AND FLAVOR FOR EACH CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCT THAT IS SOLD IN MISSISSIPPI; TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO MAINTAIN AND MAKE PUBLICLY AVAILABLE ON ITS OFFICIAL WEBSITE A DIRECTORY THAT LISTS ALL CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCT MANUFACTURERS, BRAND NAMES, CATEGORIES, PRODUCT NAMES AND FLAVORS FOR WHICH CERTIFICATION FORMS HAVE BEEN SUBMITTED AND APPROVED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, AND TO UPDATE THE DIRECTORY AT LEAST MONTHLY TO ENSURE ACCURACY; TO PROVIDE THAT CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS NOT LISTED IN THE DIRECTORY AND INTENDED FOR RETAIL SALE IN MISSISSIPPI SHALL BE SUBJECT TO SEIZURE, FORFEITURE AND DESTRUCTION, AND MAY NOT BE PURCHASED OR SOLD FOR RETAIL SALE IN MISSISSIPPI; TO PROVIDE A PENALTY FOR THE RETAIL SALE OF CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS NOT INCLUDED IN THE DIRECTORY AND TO DIRECT THAT SUCH PENALTIES BE DEPOSITED INTO THE STATE GENERAL FUND; TO REQUIRE THAT CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS MAY NOT BE SOLD OR OFFERED FOR SALE UNLESS CERTAIN CLEARLY VISIBLE NOTICE IS POSTED AT THE LOCATION WHERE THE CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCT IS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE; TO PROVIDE FINES FOR SELLING OR OFFERING TO SELL CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS WITHOUT SUCH NOTICE AND TO DIRECT THAT SUCH FINES SHALL BE DEPOSITED INTO THE STATE GENERAL FUND; TO PROHIBIT THE SALE OF CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS TO AND THE POSSESSION OF CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS BY MINORS; TO PROHIBIT AUTHORIZED RETAIL DISTRIBUTORS FROM OBTAINING CONSUMABLE HEMP PRODUCTS FROM UNAUTHORIZED SOURCES; TO AMEND SECTIONS 67-3-1, 67-3-3, 67-3-5, 67-3-7, 67-3-9, 67-3-13, 67-3-15, 67-3-17, 67-3-19, 67-3-22, 67-3-25, 67-3-27, 67-3-29, 67-3-41, 67-3-45, 67-3-46, 67-3-48, 67-3-48.1, 67-3-49, 67-3-51, 67-3-52, 67-3-53, 67-3-54, 67-3-55, 67-3-57, 67-3-59, 67-3-61, 67-3-63, 67-3-65, 67-3-67, 67-3-69, 67-3-70, 67-3-73, 67-3-74, 67-1-5, 67-1-18, 67-1-51, 67-1-51.1, 67-1-72, 67-7-3, 67-7-5, 67-7-7, 67-7-9, 67-7-11, 67-9-1, 27-65-241, 27-71-301, 27-71-303, 27-71-307, 27-71-311, 27-71-315, 27-71-317, 27-71-325, 27-71-327, 27-71-333, 27-71-335, 27-71-345, 27-71-349, 27-71-509, 45-9-101 AND 97-5-49, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO LEGALIZE THE MANUFACTURE AND SALE OF HEMP BEVERAGES, TO BE REGULATED AND TAXED IN THE SAME MANNER AS BEER, LIGHT WINE AND LIGHT SPIRIT PRODUCTS, GENERICALLY REFERRED TO AS "LIGHT INTOXICATING BEVERAGES"; TO PROVIDE A CURRENT DEFINITION OF "HEMP BEVERAGE," AND TO PROVIDE THAT EFFECTIVE ON NOVEMBER 12, 2026, "HEMP BEVERAGE" MEANS A NONALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE THAT MEETS THE DEFINITION OF "INTOXICATING HEMP PRODUCT" IN SECTION 69-25-203, IS SOLD IN CONTAINERS OF NO SIZE OTHER THAN 12 FLUID OUNCES, AND CONTAINS NO MORE THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF THC PERMITTED IN FINAL HEMP-DERIVED CANNABINOID PRODUCTS AS DEFINED IN 7 USC § 1639o; TO REMOVE THE PARENTAL CONSENT EXEMPTION FOR PERSONS AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD BUT UNDER 21; TO REVISE CERTAIN PROVISIONS REGARDING NOTICE TO PERMIT HOLDERS OF COMPLAINTS OR VIOLATIONS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 3-3-7, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE THE LEGAL HOLIDAYS BY REMOVING CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL DAY AND DESIGNATING THE NINETEENTH DAY OF JUNE AS JUNETEENTH FREEDOM DAY; TO CLARIFY WHEN A LEGAL HOLIDAY WILL BE CELEBRATED IF THE HOLIDAY FALLS ON A SATURDAY OR SUNDAY; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-151, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REFERENCE NEW SECTIONS IN THE PHARMACY BENEFIT PROMPT PAY ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-153, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO DEFINE AND REVISE TERMS UNDER THE PHARMACY BENEFIT PROMPT PAY ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-155, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REVISE THE METHOD OF DETERMINING REIMBURSEMENT TO A PHARMACIST OR PHARMACY BY A PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER OR PHARMACY SERVICES ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION (PSAO) FOR THE DISPENSING OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS AND OTHER PRODUCTS AND SUPPLIES; TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-156, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGERS TO PROVIDE A REASONABLE ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL PROCEDURE TO ALLOW PHARMACIES TO CHALLENGE A REIMBURSEMENT FOR A SPECIFIC DRUG OR DRUGS AS BEING BELOW THE REIMBURSEMENT RATE REQUIRED BY THE PRECEDING PROVISION; TO PROVIDE THAT IF THE APPEAL IS UPHELD, THE PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER SHALL MAKE THE CHANGE IN THE PAYMENT TO THE REQUIRED REIMBURSEMENT RATE; TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-157, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE THE PSAO TO BE LICENSED WITH THE MISSISSIPPI BOARD OF PHARMACY (BOARD); TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-158, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROHIBIT A PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER FROM ENGAGING IN SPREAD PRICING; TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-161, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROHIBIT A PHARMACY, PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER OR PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER AFFILIATES FROM STEERING; TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-162, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROHIBIT PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGERS, PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER AFFILIATES AND PSAOS FROM RETALIATING AGAINST A PHARMACY OR PHARMACIST; TO AMEND SECTION 73-21-163, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD, FOR THE PURPOSES OF CONDUCTING INVESTIGATIONS, TO CONDUCT EXAMINATIONS OF A PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER OR PSAO AND TO ISSUE SUBPOENAS TO OBTAIN DOCUMENTS OR RECORDS THAT IT DEEMS RELEVANT TO THE INVESTIGATION; TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-165, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGERS TO ANNUALLY REPORT TO THE BOARD CERTAIN INFORMATION ABOUT REBATES AND OTHER PAYMENTS RECEIVED FROM PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURERS; TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-167, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CREATE THE MISSISSIPPI SPECIALTY DRUG COMMITTEE AND DIRECT IT TO DEVELOP A LIST OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS THAT MEET THE CRITERIA FOR SPECIALTY DRUG DESIGNATION TO ASSIST WITH PATIENT ACCESS, TRANSPARENCY AND RESPONSIBLE COST MANAGEMENT; TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-211, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO CREATE THE PHARMACY FAIR COMPETITION ACT; TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-213, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS; TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-215, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROHIBIT A PHARMACY BENEFIT MANAGER FROM ACQUIRING DIRECT OR INDIRECT INTEREST IN, OR OTHERWISE HOLDING, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, A PHARMACY PERMIT FOR THE RETAIL SALE OF DRUGS OR MEDICINES IN THIS STATE; TO AUTHORIZE THE BOARD TO ISSUE A LIMITED USE PERMIT UPON A DETERMINATION THAT CERTAIN RARE, ORPHAN OR LIMITED DISTRIBUTION DRUGS ARE OTHERWISE UNAVAILABLE IN THE MARKET; TO CREATE NEW SECTION 73-21-217, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE THE BOARD TO CONDUCT ASSESSMENTS OF EACH ACTIVE RETAIL PHARMACY PERMITS AND TO PROVIDE WRITTEN NOTICE TO PERMIT HOLDERS THAT THE BOARD REASONABLY BELIEVES WILL VIOLATE THIS ACT; TO AMEND SECTION 25-15-301, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE BOARD, OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE, SHALL BE A MEMBER OF THE EVALUATION COMMITTEE WHEN THE PROPOSAL FOR EVALUATION IS FOR PHARMACY BENEFITS OR THE MANAGEMENT THEREOF; TO AMEND SECTION 25-15-303, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ADD THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE BOARD, OR HIS OR HER DESIGNEE; TO THE STATE AND SCHOOL EMPLOYEES HEALTH INSURANCE MANAGEMENT BOARD; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.