Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2131

Introduced
1/13/22  
Refer
1/13/22  

Caption

Appropriation FY 2023; IHL-University of Mississippi Medical Center for Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program.

Impact

The funding specified in SB2131 particularly underscores the importance of incentivizing medical professionals to pursue careers in rural facilities. By providing substantial scholarships, the legislation is expected to attract more medical graduates to serve in underserved communities where healthcare needs are critical. This funding aims not only to support the educational costs of these medical students but also to reinforce the state's commitment to equitable healthcare accessibility across different populations.

Summary

Senate Bill 2131 aims to allocate funding for the University of Mississippi Medical Center to support the Rural Physicians Scholarship Program for the fiscal year 2023. The bill proposes an appropriation of $1,860,000 from the State General Fund, which will be used to cover the expenses associated with enticing medical students to practice in rural areas of Mississippi. This initiative is seen as a crucial step in addressing the shortage of physicians in rural parts of the state, which has been a persistent issue affecting healthcare access for many residents.

Contention

While the bill has generally received positive support from various stakeholders concerned with rural healthcare, there may be points of contention regarding budget allocations in a time of constrained fiscal resources. Some critics may argue that despite the good intentions behind the scholarship program, the overall effectiveness will depend on subsequent job placement and retention efforts within the targeted areas. Furthermore, ensuring that these funds are utilized efficiently and translate into actual healthcare services remains a concern amongst budget watchdogs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2040

Appropriation FY 2024; IHL-University of Mississippi Medical Center for Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program.

MS SB2906

General Fund; FY2024 University of Mississippi Medical Center for Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program.

MS SB3182

General Fund; FY2025 appropriation to UMMC for Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program.

MS SB3010

Appropriation; IHL - University of Mississippi Medical Center.

MS SB3008

Appropriation; IHL - University of Mississippi Medical Center.

MS SB3014

Appropriation; IHL - University of Mississippi Medical Center.

MS SB3010

Appropriation; IHL - University of Mississippi Medical Center.

MS SB2009

Appropriation; IHL - University of Mississippi Medical Center.

MS SB2060

Appropriation FY 2023; to University of Mississippi Medical Center for fire protection.

MS SB3008

Appropriation; IHL - Mississippi State University - Veterinary Medicine, College of.

Similar Bills

HI SB440

Relating To Education.

AZ HB2616

Public service scholarship fund

NH HB747

Establishing a program for enrichment scholarships for gifted students and making an appropriation therefor.

MI HB5829

Higher education: financial aid; state competitive scholarships; eliminate. Amends secs. 2, 3, 4, 5, 5a, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 of 1964 PA 208 (MCL 390.972 et seq.) & repeals acts and rescinds rules.

NJ A3624

Authorizes creation of Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation license plates.

NJ A231

Authorizes creation of Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation license plates.

AZ HB2420

Law enforcement; families; tuition scholarships

CA SB326

Postsecondary education: Middle Class Scholarship Program.