MississippiHB 5622026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Upskill Mississippi Grant Program; establish to provide last-dollar tuition assistance at community colleges for certain programs.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Tuition grants and $500 for adult students

The law pays your remaining tuition and fees at a Mississippi public community or junior college after other grants and scholarships. You also get $500 each year for books and materials. To qualify, you must live in Mississippi for at least two years and still live there, be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, have a high school diploma or GED, and be enrolled at least half-time. You must be at least 24 and independent on the FAFSA, finish the Mississippi Aid Application by the Board deadline, and keep satisfactory academic progress. Only programs on Accelerate Mississippi’s yearly priority list are eligible. Money is sent to your college after your enrollment is verified.

Colleges must support UPSKILL students

Colleges must assign each grant recipient an advisor who checks in at least three times per term. They must enroll recipients in Mississippi Works, create program-to-career maps, and connect students to paid practicums or apprenticeships when possible. Colleges must seek other funds, like WIOA or TANF, to offer up to $250 per term for emergency aid, childcare, or transportation. They should offer evening, weekend, or online options when possible and use early alert systems.

State runs UPSKILL grants and reports

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid runs the UPSKILL program. It sets rules with the state board, takes applications each year, tells students their award, and sends funds to colleges. The office can use up to 5% of program money to run the program and must report awards, participation, and outcomes to the Legislature. The program operates only if the Legislature provides funding.

Phased rollout through 2029 school year

The law takes effect July 1, 2026. A small pilot starts in Spring 2027. A full pilot runs in the 2027–2028 school year. The program is statewide in the 2028–2029 school year. The student aid office develops each phase.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Christopher M. Bell
House

Cosponsors

Rodney Hall
Republican • House
Omeria Scott
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 332 • No: 2

House vote • 3/31/2026

Conference Report Adopted

Yes: 116 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/31/2026

Conference Report Adopted

Yes: 52 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/11/2026

Passed As Amended

Yes: 48 • No: 2 • Other: 1

House vote • 2/9/2026

Passed