MS HB442

Establishes the Mississippi Department of Labor effective July 1, 2024, composed of five offices: Employment Security; Job Development and Training; Industry Service and Industry Start-up Training; Employee Relations and Job Discrimination; and Disabled Employee Assistance.

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

Creates the position of Commissioner of Labor as the chief officer of the department, to be appointed by the Governor until the 2027 general election, then elected every four years thereafter with an annual salary of $120,000.

Assigns the Office of Job Development and Training to administer federal and state-funded employment and training programs under the Job Training Partnership Act, Wagner-Peyser Act, JOBS program, and Comprehensive Employment and Training Act.

Adds the Commissioner of Labor to the list of elected state officials in the 2027 general election and establishes candidate filing fees of $500-$2,500 for primary elections and $500 for independent candidates.