Mississippi Code Title 41. Public Health § 41-3-21

(a) To perform such laboratory tests and procedures as shall be determined beneficial to the health of the people of Mississippi;

(b) To apply for and maintain any and all necessary federal or other certifications and/or licenses for the performance of its duties, unless such authority shall be otherwise assigned by official action of the State Board of Health;

(c) The Mississippi Public Health Laboratory shall be under the management of a director, who shall be appointed by the State Health Officer. The responsibility for the laboratory shall be vested in the director. The director shall be the administrative officer of the Mississippi Public Health Laboratory and shall perform the duties as may be assigned to him or her by the State Board of Health. The director shall receive compensation as may be fixed by the State Board of Health, subject to the approval of the State Personnel Board. The State Health Officer may employ such other persons as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section. The compensation and the terms and conditions of their employment shall be determined by the State Board of Health in accordance with applicable state law and rules and regulations of the State Personnel Board.