Bill > HB335

This bill appropriates $11 million from the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund to the Mississippi State Department of Health for the MAGnet Community Health Disparity Program, which aims to improve health access and outcomes for Mississippians. For the fiscal year 2025-2026, the funds are specifically designated to address the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on minority and disadvantaged communities by developing mitigation plans, reducing racial disparities in vaccine distribution, and conducting outreach to these communities. Federally Qualified Health Centers can apply to receive funding through the program. The bill includes strict oversight provisions, requiring the department to ensure that all expenditures comply with federal guidelines from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), specifically Section 602 of the Social Security Act. Additionally, if any funds are determined to have been improperly used by federal inspectors, the department or recipient must repay those funds to the state. The appropriation will become effective on July 1, 2025, and the funds must be used to support COVID-19 related health interventions in vulnerable communities.

Budget and Finance

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0335.xml