Healthcare (Mental Health)

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.