MS HB793

Creates the Mississippi Skill Standards Board as an advisory board to the Governor, Legislature, and state workforce development system to develop industry-defined skill standards and credentials for skilled occupations requiring less than a baccalaureate degree.

Board consists of 13 members appointed by the Governor with terms concurrent with the Governor's term: 8 business representatives (including 2 from small businesses with fewer than 50 employees), 2 worker representatives, and 1 each from secondary education, two-year public postsecondary education, and four-year public postsecondary education.

Board duties include validating nationally established skill standards, convening industry groups to develop new standards and certification procedures, reviewing standards from other states and nations, promoting use of standards with employers and educators, and developing a memorandum of understanding between workforce and education entities.

Board meets at minimum quarterly at the call of the presiding officer (a business representative appointed by the Governor), with members receiving no compensation but eligible for expense reimbursement.

Mississippi Community College Board shall provide staff support, and the Skill Standards Board shall provide annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and Community College Board; effective July 1, 2015.