Mississippi Senate Bill SB2904

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Regional commissions for facilities for individuals with mental illness; revise commission members.

Impact

The passage of SB2904 is set to streamline the membership structure of these regional commissions, which can enhance their operational efficiency and decision-making processes. By specifying a clear framework for county representation and limiting commission membership to five members for two-county regions, the bill aims to improve collaboration between counties in providing essential services for individuals with mental health challenges. Furthermore, the more defined roles and responsibilities of commission members could lead to better management of resources and initiatives focused on mental health and intellectual disabilities.

Summary

Senate Bill 2904 aims to amend Section 41-19-35 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 regarding the composition of regional commissions that provide facilities and services for individuals with mental illnesses and intellectual disabilities. This bill seeks to clarify the number of appointed members on these commissions, particularly focusing on regional commissions comprised of only two counties. Under the proposed amendments, each county is to appoint two members to the commission, and a third member will be appointed from the more populous county involved in the commission, ensuring both counties are democratically represented in the governance of mental health services.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding SB2904, particularly in discussions over local governance and how appointments to these commissions are made. Stakeholders may raise concerns about the adequacy of representation for smaller counties, especially if they feel that the larger county is given undue influence through the additional member appointed from the more populous county. Additionally, advocates for mental health services may wish to ensure that the members appointed to these commissions possess the necessary expertise and commitment to effectively support individuals with mental illnesses and disabilities.