Mississippi House Bill HB980

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/24
• Refer: 2/6/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Board of Dental Examiners; provide that the state-at-large position shall be appointed from nominations by the Mississippi Dental Society.

Impact

The proposed bill will not only streamline the process of appointing board members but also ensure that those appointed have received broad support from their peers. By requiring the Governor to select an appointee from a list generated by popular vote within the Mississippi Dental Society, the bill is likely to enhance accountability and representation on the board. This could lead to a more relevant and responsive board that aligns better with the interests of practicing dentists and dental hygienists in Mississippi.

Summary

House Bill 980 aims to amend Section 73-9-7 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, altering the way the state-at-large position on the State Board of Dental Examiners is filled. It mandates that this position be appointed by the governor from a list of three members nominated by the Mississippi Dental Society. The nominees will be the three candidates who receive the highest number of votes in a statewide balloting poll conducted by the board itself. This change emphasizes a more democratic process in the selection of board members, reflecting the wishes of practicing dentists across the state.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill may also face criticism, particularly regarding the perceived influence of the Mississippi Dental Society in the nomination process. Some stakeholders may argue that this could lead to favoritism or bias in selecting nominees, potentially excluding qualified candidates who may not have the same network or connections within the society. Furthermore, concerns may arise about the state's role in regulating appointments, as stakeholders may fear that political considerations could play a role in the Governor's final selection.