MS HB844

Creates the Mississippi K-12 Workforce Development Grant Program Fund to support construction, remodeling, equipment purchases, and upgrades at K-12 career technical centers, funded through workforce development contributions currently deposited to the State Workforce Investment Board bank account.

Redirects State Workforce Investment Board contributions (0.01% of taxable wages) to the new K-12 grant program fund instead of the board's bank account, with remaining funds in that account transferred to the K-12 program as of June 30, 2023.

Establishes administrative caps at 5% of appropriated funds for both the Mississippi Workforce Enhancement Training Fund and Mississippi Works Fund for training services.

Designates the Mississippi Department of Employment Security as fiscal agent for all Office of Workforce Development funds and grants the office new powers including direct access to accounting statements, ability to enter nondisclosure agreements, and authority to select tools and platforms necessary for its mission.

Extends availability of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) workforce development funds through December 31, 2026 (or federal deadline, whichever is later), requiring grant recipients to certify they will complete projects with other funds if not finished by that date and Congress does not extend the deadline.