Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1114

Introduced

2/9/24

Refer

2/9/24

Failed

3/5/24

Caption

Practice of medicine or dentistry; allow persons convicted of certain crimes to practice after license reinstatement.

Impact

The implications of HB 1114 extend to the State Board of Medical Licensure and the State Board of Dental Examiners, which would gain additional authority to reinstate licenses for those who have served their time. The changes are poised to alter the landscape of professional licensure, potentially allowing rehabilitated individuals to re-enter the healthcare workforce, thereby addressing workforce shortages and improving accessibility to medical and dental services in communities that may face a lack of practitioners.

Summary

House Bill 1114 aims to amend the Mississippi Code to allow individuals who have been convicted of specific crimes to regain the ability to practice medicine or dentistry after their licenses have been reinstated by the appropriate state boards. The legislation includes adjustments to Section 99-19-35, which previously barred individuals with convictions for various offenses from practicing their professions unless they received a full pardon. This bill proposes that reinstated individuals should not be denied the opportunity to practice solely due to their past convictions, promoting a more rehabilitative approach to medical licensing.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1114 stem from concerns about public safety and the implications of allowing individuals with criminal backgrounds to return to these sensitive professions. Critics argue that such measures may compromise the integrity of medical and dental practices and pose risks to patient safety. Proponents, however, highlight the importance of redemption and the potential benefits of enabling previously incarcerated individuals to contribute positively to society, emphasizing that rehabilitation should be prioritized along with public health considerations.