MS HB962

Establishes a Youth Employment Grant Program administered by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security to assist municipalities in providing employment opportunities for youth ages 16-24.

Requires eligible youth to be enrolled in or committed to enrolling in high school, college, or a high school equivalency program and must be residents of the participating municipality.

Municipalities must submit an employment plan to the Department of Employment Security and provide 20% matching funds equal to 20% of the grant amount to qualify for grants.

Mandates that youth employment plans include at least 10% of work time dedicated to developing basic life skills such as education, communication, leadership, work ethic, and safety training.

Creates the Youth Employment Program Fund in the State Treasury to hold appropriated monies and any other legislatively designated funds, with unexpended balances carried forward and interest earnings retained in the fund; effective July 1, 2020.