Bill > HB1621

This bill modifies Mississippi's Career and Technical Education (CTE) program by expanding the definition and use of industry certifications. The legislation clarifies that "industry certification" means a credential awarded by an independent third-party entity that assesses students' skills and knowledge, with certifications now qualifying if they address critical economic needs, are linked to high-demand or emerging occupations, or connect to jobs paying at least 70% of the state's median income. The bill allows CTE grant funds to be used for purchasing equipment for programs leading to qualifying industry certifications, removing previous restrictions that prohibited using these funds to supplement basic CTE program operations. The State Workforce Investment Board will continue to annually provide the State Board of Education with a list of qualifying industry certifications, and schools can receive $600 per student who earns such a certification, subject to available funding. The bill maintains existing reporting requirements, mandating annual reports to state leadership detailing student enrollment, certification achievements, and grant awards, with a planned implementation date of July 1, 2025.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1621.xml