MS HB15

Creates the Mississippi Skill Standards Board as an advisory body to the Governor, Legislature, and state workforce development system to develop industry-defined skill standards and credentials for skilled occupations requiring less than a baccalaureate degree.

Board composition consists of 13 members appointed by the Governor: eight business representatives (including two from businesses with fewer than 50 employees and one each from four sector clusters), two worker representatives, and one representative each from secondary education, two-year public postsecondary education, and four-year public postsecondary education.

Board duties include validating nationally established skill standards for curriculum and training, convening industry groups to develop new standards and certification procedures, reviewing standards from other states and nations for mutual credential recognition, and promoting use of standards among employers.

Board members receive no compensation but are entitled to reimbursement for mileage and expenses; the Mississippi Community College Board provides staff support and the board must meet at least quarterly.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.