Appropriation; Office of Workforce Development for supporting and expanding the career coaching program for schools.

HB 301 appropriates $20 million from the state general fund to expand career coaching programs in Mississippi middle and high schools for the 2026 fiscal year. The Office of Workforce Development will manage the funds, with the Department of Employment Security serving as fiscal agent. This funding directly supports public schools in enhancing career guidance services for students. It builds upon an existing program established under Mississippi Code Section 37-73-3.