Mississippi Department of Labor; create.

HB 176 creates the Mississippi Department of Labor, replacing the existing Department of Employment Security. It transfers all duties, powers, and funds from the old department to this new structure, which will include five specific offices: Employment Security, Job Development and Training, Industry Service, Employee Relations, and Disabled Employee Assistance. The bill establishes that the Commissioner of Labor will be elected starting in 2027 (with a gubernatorial appointment until then), responsible for overseeing the department's operations and workforce development programs. This reorganization directly affects Mississippi residents seeking job training, employment services, and workplace protections, as well as employers needing workforce development support.