MS HB428

Creates the Mississippi Department of Labor effective July 1, 2024, consolidating labor-related functions including the abolished Department of Employment Security and establishing five administrative offices: Employment Security, Job Development and Training, Industry Service and Industry Start-up Training, Employee Relations and Job Discrimination, and Disabled Employee Assistance.

Establishes an elected Commissioner of Labor position with a $120,000 annual salary to be elected at the 2027 general election and every four years thereafter; Governor shall appoint a qualified interim commissioner from July 1, 2024, until the 2027 election.

Transfers all duties, powers, equipment, supplies, records, and appropriated funds from the Mississippi Department of Employment Security to the new Office of Employment Security within the Department of Labor.

Authorizes the Department of Labor to administer and coordinate federal and state-funded job training and employment programs including the Workforce Investment Act, Wagner-Peyser Act, Job Training Partnership Act, and JOBS/Basic Skills Training Program.

Amends election law to add the Commissioner of Labor to the list of elected state officials beginning with the 2027 general election and establishes candidate filing fees for the position.