MS HB245

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

Board consists of 13 Governor-appointed members serving terms concurrent with the Governor: 8 business representatives (including 2 from small businesses with fewer than 50 employees), 2 worker representatives, and 3 education representatives (secondary, two-year, and four-year institutions)

Board duties include validating national skill standards, convening industry groups to develop standards where none exist, reviewing standards from other states/nations for mutual credential recognition, and promoting standards use among employers

Mississippi Community College Board provides staff support; board members receive no compensation but are entitled to mileage and expense reimbursement

Effective date of July 1, 2026