Mississippi House Bill HB800

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Department of Mental Health and community health centers; expand outpatient services for certain formerly incarcerated state inmates.

Impact

The implementation of HB 800 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws regarding mental health services for formerly incarcerated individuals. By expanding the range of outpatient and community-based services, it aims to address a critical gap in mental health care for this vulnerable population. This expansion may also involve allocating funds that are currently available for the enhancement of such services, potentially improving access to care and reducing the likelihood of recidivism and further mental health crises.

Summary

House Bill 800 mandates the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, along with community mental health centers, to expand outpatient and community-based services specifically for former inmates of the Department of Corrections. This bill focuses on individuals who have been diagnosed with mental illness while incarcerated. The objective is to ensure that these individuals receive necessary mental health support during their reintegration into society, as they are no longer housed within correctional facilities.

Contention

While the bill seeks to provide essential services, there may be contention surrounding the adequacy of funding and resources allocated to effectively implement the expanded services. Stakeholders may debate the state's ability to sustain these programs over time and whether the provided funding will adequately meet the needs of the population targeted by the bill. Additionally, some may question the extent to which the bill truly addresses the broader societal issues contributing to mental health challenges among formerly incarcerated individuals.