Healthcare

SB 2016 is an appropriation bill that allocates $722.7 million (combined General Fund and special source funds) to Mississippi’s Department of Mental Health for fiscal year 2026 (July 2025-June 2026). It directly affects the department’s operations by funding staff salaries, mental health services, and specific programs like crisis centers and fentanyl education. Key provisions restrict the funds to "Personal Services" (salaries, wages, and vacancy funding), prohibit using General Funds to replace federal funds, and require strict adherence to the Variable Compensation Plan. The bill mandates efficient use of funds to meet performance targets, such as reducing unmet community mental health care access. As a procedural funding measure, it does not create new policies but authorizes existing service delivery.

SB 2024 provides $1.29 million in state funding to Mississippi's Board of Dental Examiners for fiscal year 2026 (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026). It specifically allocates $694,646 for staff salaries and benefits for the board’s 8 authorized positions, with strict rules preventing use for promotions or salary increases beyond budget limits. Additionally, $27,000 is designated for the Board of Pharmacy to support its Prescription Monitoring Program. This is a routine budget allocation for operational costs, not a new policy change.