MS HB562

Establishes the Mississippi Career and Technical Education Employability (MissCATEE) Program to provide tuition-free community college for career and technical education programs aligned with high-wage, high-demand industries including healthcare, advanced manufacturing, IT, transportation, and energy/construction

Eligible recipients must be Mississippi residents for at least one year, have a high school diploma or GED, enroll full-time within 12 months of graduation (or be dually enrolled), complete FAFSA, and maintain satisfactory academic progress

Recipients must commit to working in Mississippi in their credentialed industry sector for a period determined by the Office of Workforce Development; failure to complete the program or fulfill work requirements triggers full repayment with interest

The Mississippi Department of Employment Security serves as fiscal agent, with Local Workforce Development Areas administering fund distribution and receiving 3-5% of appropriated funds for administration

Office of Workforce Development must submit annual reports to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Speaker, and relevant committee chairs detailing fund allocation, student participation, and employment outcomes