Mississippi receives approval for WorkFlex waiver, removing barriers to meet employer needs

• “This is an important step forward for Mississippi’s workforce,” said Governor Tate Reeves.

The U.S. Department of Labor recently approved a waiver for the state of Mississippi to help meet the needs of the state’s workforce. 

Called the Workflex plan, Mississippi submitted a request for the waiver and approval was granted by the Labor Department. The plan will open a path to allow the Magnolia State to better align workforce training with the state’s economic development and employer needs, the Mississippi Department of Employment Security stated.

“Workflex provides a unique opportunity to redesign service delivery in ways that work better for our employers and for Mississippians pursuing meaningful careers. We look forward to partnering with MDES, local workforce boards, and our community stakeholders to implement this flexibility effectively,” said Dr. Courtney Taylor, Executive Director of Accelerate MS.

Among the benefits of the modernization of the federal regulations include the ability to streamline provisions in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, thereby reducing administrative barriers. 

“This is an important step forward for Mississippi’s workforce,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “Workflex gives our state the freedom to innovate—ensuring we can cut red tape, serve our businesses more effectively, and help Mississippians get the training and support they need to succeed. I’m proud of the team that worked to secure this approval and excited for what it means for our state’s future.”

MDES expects the newly granted ability to streamline regulations and allow Mississippians to gain new employment sector skills faster, meeting the needs of today’s employers in a timelier manner. 

“This approval positions Mississippi to innovate how we deliver workforce services and respond more quickly to the needs of businesses and workers,” said William J. Ashley, Executive Director of MDES. “Workflex gives us the tools to remove outdated barriers, improve performance outcomes, and strengthen the pathways Mississippians use to enter and advance in the workforce.”

According to the Department of Labor, the waiver last for up to five years.

“Once the WorkFlex waiver authority has been granted, the Governor can approve waivers for local areas without having to come back to the Secretary for permission,” the Labor Department stated.