MS HB1051

Creates the Mississippi Prison Education Reform Act of 2021, requiring the Mississippi Department of Corrections to establish and maintain educational classes for inmates through partnerships with the Department of Education, Department of Employment Security, school districts, or private schools

Mandates at least 25 specific vocational training programs be available to inmates, including auto mechanics, welding, cosmetology, culinary arts, commercial driver's license, computer technology, electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC

Establishes an 11-member Correctional Education Advisory Committee with representatives from corrections, education, universities (Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Jackson State), and a prison rights advocate to oversee educational programs

Creates a new Deputy Commissioner for Education position within the Department of Corrections to administer prison-based education programs, with goals including achieving 9th grade functional literacy for all inmates and providing vocational skills for in-demand occupations

Requires the committee to develop a five-year comprehensive plan for a unified correctional school system by June 1, 2022, and submit a report to the Legislature by January 1, 2023, with recommendations on curriculum, funding, and teacher training