Bill > HB1232

This bill requires the Department of Mental Health (DMH) and community mental health centers to expand outpatient and community-based services specifically for former inmates of the Department of Corrections who were diagnosed with a mental illness while incarcerated. The expanded services will be designed to support these individuals after their release from correctional institutions, helping them transition back into the community by providing mental health treatment and support. The bill stipulates that these expanded services will be funded through existing appropriated funds allocated for such purposes, meaning no additional funding is being requested. The new services will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving the DMH and community mental health centers time to develop and implement the expanded programs. By focusing on mental health support for recently released inmates with documented mental health diagnoses, the bill aims to potentially reduce recidivism and improve mental health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1232.xml