Bill > HB1696

This bill establishes the "Mississippi Office of Apprenticeship Act" to create a new office within the Mississippi Department of Employment Security, which will serve as the state's official apprenticeship agency. This office will be responsible for setting labor standards, ensuring equal opportunities in apprenticeship programs, and resolving disputes between parties involved in apprenticeship agreements, all in compliance with federal regulations from the U.S. Department of Labor (referred to as "Department" and abbreviated as "DOL" in federal regulations like 29 CFR). The bill also defines key terms such as "apprentice," "apprenticeship," and "journey worker," which is a skilled worker who has mastered the competencies for an occupation. A new Mississippi Apprenticeship Council will be formed as an advisory body to the Office of Apprenticeship, composed of representatives from various workforce development and education entities, as well as employer and employee organizations. Importantly, this bill clarifies that apprenticeship programs and their sponsors are not required to register with the new Mississippi Office of Apprenticeship, though the office will develop a state apprenticeship completion credential and promote apprenticeship opportunities. The act will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB1696.xml