Appropriation; Rehabilitation Services, Department of.

This bill appropriates approximately $256 million from state funds to cover the operating expenses of Mississippi's Department of Rehabilitation Services for the 2025 fiscal year. The legislation authorizes the department to hire a total of 1,076 employees, including both permanent and time-limited positions, while establishing strict rules to ensure new hires are used to fill vacancies rather than increase salaries for current staff. Additionally, the act sets specific performance targets for the department, such as the number of individuals served and the rate of employment placement, and includes provisions to prioritize purchasing goods from Mississippi Industries for the Blind.