Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1315

Introduced

1/20/25

Refer

1/20/25

Failed

2/4/25

Caption

MS Dementia Care Pilot Program; extend period of operation and bring forward other sections.

Impact

The passage of HB1315 would have a significant impact on state law by formalizing the existence and operational timeline of the Mississippi Dementia Care Program. The amendment would facilitate ongoing respite care services, which are vital for the support of informal caregivers, allowing them necessary breaks from caregiving responsibilities. The bill recognizes the crucial role of federal funding to support these services and emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among various state departments to optimize resources and service delivery.

Summary

House Bill 1315 seeks to amend Section 43-63-7 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to extend the operational period of the Mississippi Dementia Care Pilot Program. This program is designed to assist informal caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related forms of dementia. Under the proposed amendment, the program will continue for six years instead of the previously designated three years, thereby allowing for extended support and provision of respite care services for families burdened by caregiving duties. The bill also emphasizes the collaboration between the Mississippi Department of Human Services and other state agencies for program implementation and funding acquisition.

Contention

While HB1315 aims to provide vital support for caregivers, there may be discussions around the adequacy of funding and resources to sustain the program for the extended six-year period. Concern may arise regarding the reliance on federal appropriations for the continuity of services, which could be subject to fluctuations in federal budget allocations. Additionally, stakeholders may debate the effectiveness of the pilot program in addressing the needs of caregivers and whether it adequately covers the varying aspects of support required for different family dynamics dealing with dementia care.