MS HB1279

Requires contractors bidding on public works projects funded by disaster relief or similar federal sources to submit a signed agreement acknowledging awareness of Section 31-5-37 hiring requirements along with their bid and employment plan.

Applies to projects with expenditures of $5,000 or more financed through federally declared disaster funds, spill remediation funds, or similar legislation including R.E.S.T.O.R.E. Act, Oil Pollution Act, and Federal Water Pollution Control Act funds.

Mandates contractors submit an employment plan within 7 days of contract award that includes job types, skill levels, wages, recruitment methods for low-wage and unemployed individuals, and proof of Mississippi Department of Employment Security registration.

Restricts hiring for the first 10 business days after employment plan receipt to Mississippi residents verified by the Department of Employment Security, with the department submitting qualified candidates for contractor review before other hiring occurs.

Adds new duty to Mississippi State Workforce Investment Board to assist the Department of Employment Security in performing the section's requirements, effective July 1, 2019.