MS HB435

Creates the Mississippi Skill Standards Board as an advisory board 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: 8 business representatives (including 2 from small businesses with fewer than 50 employees), 2 worker representatives, 1 secondary education representative, 1 two-year postsecondary representative, and 1 four-year postsecondary representative.

Board duties include validating nationally established skill standards, convening industry groups to develop new standards and certifications, reviewing standards from other states and nations for credential portability, and promoting standards use among employers and educational entities.

Board members receive no compensation but are reimbursed for reasonable mileage and expenses; the Mississippi Community College Board provides staff support.

Board must meet quarterly minimum and submit annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and Mississippi Community College Board; effective July 1, 2025.