MS HB328

Creates the "Career Pathways Initiative" requiring the Mississippi Department of Employment Security, Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning, Mississippi Community College Board, and State Workforce Investment Board to jointly develop and annually update a collaborative plan.

Initiative must increase access to education credentials for low-income parents and individuals to qualify for higher-paying jobs, improve workforce preparedness for high-skill jobs, and develop training courses in consultation with local employers and workforce boards.

Allocates resources based on performance incentives tied to participant enrollment, course completion, job placement in targeted categories, and job retention.

Authorizes use of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds for eligible participants with custody of children under 21 whose family income is below 250% of federal poverty level.

Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning shall contract with state agencies, two-year colleges, local governments, and private or community organizations to provide job training certificates and higher education degrees for low-income adults, with applications submitted to the Board.