Mississippi Department of Health

The meeting includes the State Health Officer's report, an update on the legislative session, and a report from the Chief Financial Officer. Regulatory actions feature a reappointment to the Mississippi Professional Art Therapy Council. New business covers a public assistance state and local disaster assistance agreement. Several appendices will be presented, including financial reports, personnel matters, contracts and subgrants, J-1 Visa information, and the Mississippi Trauma Care System report.

The board convened to review and discuss a Federal Court Order regarding a Certificate of Need (CON). The meeting included an executive session for the discussion of legal matters, after which it was announced that no formal action was taken.

The board meeting included a review of the state health officer's report, covering legislative preparation, rural health grants, and public health statistics concerning influenza and other respiratory illnesses. Financial discussions focused on fiscal year 2027 budget recommendations for the Department and medical cannabis programs. The board approved consent agenda items regarding regulations for obstetric systems of care, certificate of need processes, hospital operating standards, and child care facility licensure. Additionally, committee reports addressed proposed fee increases for wastewater sustainability and updates on certificate of need subcommittee progress regarding statutory language and exemptions for hospital services.

The board convened to review and discuss an ongoing personnel and litigation matter. An executive session was held to address these topics, after which it was announced that no formal action was taken.

The meeting included recognition for a Senator's efforts in championing public health and the introduction of the new Director of Health Services. Key discussion points included the State Health Officer's report covering EMS memorial dedication, Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness, Rural Health Transformation Grant, and Infant Mortality updates. The Chief Financial Officer presented on the state fiscal year 2027 budget request and provided updates on ongoing construction projects, including pharmacy improvements and parking garage elevator modernization. The State Epidemiologist reported on rising pertussis cases and one related infant death. A consent agenda was approved after one item concerning amendments to Child Care Facilities regulations was pulled for further committee review. Committee reports covered an overview of items prepared for the upcoming 2026 legislative session, including controlled substance law revisions and funding allocations. The Board also discussed the ongoing infant mortality public health crisis, examining rates and collaborative efforts to decrease incidents. The CON committee is preparing recommendations for the legislature.