Colorado 2023 Regular Session

Colorado House Bill HB1094

Introduced
1/19/23  
Refer
1/19/23  
Report Pass
1/30/23  
Refer
1/30/23  
Report Pass
3/10/23  
Refer
3/10/23  
Engrossed
3/16/23  
Refer
3/16/23  
Report Pass
3/23/23  
Refer
3/23/23  
Report Pass
4/6/23  
Refer
4/6/23  
Engrossed
4/24/23  
Engrossed
4/24/23  
Enrolled
4/25/23  

Caption

Extend Agricultural Workforce Development Program

Impact

By extending the deadline for the Agricultural Workforce Development Program from July 2024 to July 2029, the bill aims to ensure the continuity of support for Colorado's agricultural workforce. The program has proven essential in building a skilled workforce and will specifically benefit areas within agriculture that require sustained support to develop talent. The changes proposed in HB 1094 are designed to create a stronger pipeline of skilled workers, which is essential for the ongoing success of the agricultural industry in the state.

Summary

House Bill 1094 aims to extend the Agricultural Workforce Development Program in Colorado, originally established in 2018. The program provides financial incentives for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural businesses to hire interns, thereby facilitating hands-on training and career pathways for young and beginning farmers. The bill seeks to address the ongoing challenge of finding qualified agricultural employees by enhancing internship opportunities, allowing for internship durations to be extended from six months to one year. This extension is intended to support year-round agricultural operations and better prepare interns for careers in agriculture.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1094 appears to be largely positive, especially among agricultural stakeholders and legislators who understand the pressing need for a well-trained agricultural workforce. Supporters emphasize the program's role in fostering the next generation of farmers and ranchers while addressing labor shortages within the sector. While there are no significant recorded oppositions from the discussions available, the usual debate regarding government intervention and fiscal responsibility in supporting such programs could arise.

Contention

While the bill generally enjoys support, potential contention may arise from concerns about the program's long-term funding and effectiveness. Questions may be raised regarding whether extending the defined duration of internships indeed leads to successful placements and sustainable job growth. The challenge lies in monitoring and evaluating the program's outcomes, ensuring it meets both agricultural demands and educational objectives without overextending taxpayer resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CO SB057

Agricultural Workforce & Suicide Prevention

CO SB012

Reentry Workforce Development Cash Assistance Pilot Program

CO HB1138

Tax Credit for Transfer of Agricultural Asset

CO SB055

Agricultural & Rural Behavioral Health Care

CO HB1237

Programs for the Development of Child Care Facilities

CO SB050

Colorado Workforce Demonstration Grants Pilot Program

CO HB1409

Employment-Related Funding & Workforce Enterprise

CO SB152

Regenerative Agriculture Tax Credit

CO HB1317

Workforce Data Collection

CO HB1390

School Food Programs

Similar Bills

HI HB1294

Relating To Agricultural Workforce Housing.

HI SB498

Relating To Agricultural Workforce Housing.

HI SB2961

Relating To Agricultural Workforce Housing.

CA SB831

Agricultural workers: immigration: parole.

HI SB2928

Relating To Education.

CA AB376

Veterans benefits: veteran farmers or ranchers.

HI HB826

Relating To Housing.