MS SB2297

Establishes the Mississippi Department of Labor with a Commissioner appointed by the Governor for a four-year term, replacing the previous Department of Employment Security structure.

Creates five offices within the Department: Employment Security, Job Development and Training, Industry Service and Industry Start-up Training, Employee Relations and Job Discrimination, and Disabled Employee Assistance.

Transfers all duties, powers, equipment, supplies, records, and appropriated funds from the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (Office of the Governor) to the new Office of Employment Security effective July 1, 2013.

Authorizes the Office of Job Development and Training to administer federal and state-funded employment programs including Job Training Partnership Act, Wagner-Peyser Act, JOBS programs, and Comprehensive Employment and Training Act.

Grants the Commissioner broad authority to promulgate regulations, establish administrative units, prepare budget requests, supervise department institutions and programs, and delegate powers as necessary to carry out labor-management services.