Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1431

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  

Caption

Nursing education; unspent TANF funds shall be spent to pay expenses of persons enrolled as part of workforce training.

Impact

This bill aims to enhance the nursing workforce in Mississippi by facilitating access to necessary educational programs for those in need. By focusing TANF funds on education, the legislation seeks to improve job readiness and provide better employment opportunities for individuals seeking careers in nursing. The intent is to address workforce shortages in the healthcare sector by creating a more skilled pool of nursing professionals.

Summary

House Bill 1431 amends Section 43-17-5 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to prioritize the allocation of any unspent Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds. Specifically, these funds will be directed first towards covering education-related expenses for individuals enrolled in nursing education courses as part of workforce training. Additionally, the bill allocates resources to support child care expenses for these individuals while they pursue their education.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding HB 1431 may involve debates over the effective use of TANF funds. Some stakeholders may argue that while focusing on nursing education is beneficial, the reallocation of these funds could detract from other essential support services that TANF provides, such as housing assistance or food support for low-income families. Furthermore, there may be differing opinions on the adequacy of child care support provided, which is crucial for parents returning to school.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB284

Nursing education; unspent TANF funds shall be spent to pay expenses of persons enrolled as part of workforce training.

MS HB24

Nursing education; unspent TANF funds shall be spent to pay expenses of persons enrolled as part of workforce training.

MS HB303

Nursing education; unspent TANF funds shall be spent to pay expenses of persons enrolled as part of workforce training.

MS HB463

Child care; DHS shall transfer to CCDF the first $40 Million of unspent TANF funds from prior FY to be used for child care vouchers.

MS HB355

Child care; DHS shall transfer to CCDF the first $40 Million of unspent TANF funds from prior FY to be used for child care vouchers.

MS SB2743

Child care; DHS shall transfer to CCDF the first $40 Million of unspent TANF funds from prior FY to be used for child care vouchers.

MS SB2717

Child care; DHS shall transfer to CCDF the first $40 Million of unspent TANF funds from prior FY to be used for child care vouchers.

MS HB84

Child care; DHS shall transfer to CCDF the first $40 Million of unspent TANF funds from prior FY to be used for child care vouchers.

MS HB970

TANF funds; prohibit use of for college scholarships for persons not receiving TANF benefits.

MS HB715

TANF funds; prohibit use of for college scholarships for persons not receiving TANF benefits.

Similar Bills

MS HB971

TANF benefits; remove certain restrictions and penalties for applicants and recipients.

MS HB582

TANF benefits; remove certain restrictions and penalties for applicants and recipients.

MS HB126

TANF benefits; remove certain restrictions and penalties for applicants and recipients.

MS SB2806

Applicants for TANF benefits; repeal section that required drug testing as condition of eligibility.

MS SB2388

Applicants for TANF benefits; repeal section that requires drug testing as condition of eligibility.

MS SB2689

Applicants for TANF benefits; repeal section that requires drug testing as condition of eligibility.

MS HB463

Child care; DHS shall transfer to CCDF the first $40 Million of unspent TANF funds from prior FY to be used for child care vouchers.

MS HB774

TANF block grant; DHS shall transfer 30% of each year to CCDF for child care vouchers.