West Virginia House Bill HB144

West Virginia 2023 1st Special Session

• Introduced: 8/6/23
• Engrossed: 8/6/23
• Enrolled: 8/8/23
• Passed: 8/8/23
• Chaptered: 8/28/23

Caption

Including Potomac State College of West Virginia in the definition of community and technical college education program for participation in the “Learn and Earn Program”

Impact

The bill, by amending existing education statutes, supports the broader goal of making technical programs more accessible and affordable, particularly for individuals otherwise unable to pursue full-time education. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and local employers, with the requirement for a dollar-for-dollar cash match from employers further incentivizing participation. The final outcome of the pilot program will determine if Potomac State College can continue to engage with the 'Learn and Earn Program' beyond the trial period, thus potentially impacting future educational partnerships.

Summary

House Bill 144, approved during the 2023 extraordinary session of the West Virginia Legislature, introduces a three-year pilot program to include Potomac State College of West Virginia University as an eligible institution for the 'Learn and Earn Program.' This initiative aims to enhance access to technical education for working adults who cannot enroll full-time due to employment obligations. By integrating cooperative education, the program provides students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while receiving financial compensation, thereby encouraging program completion and potential retention in the state workforce.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 144 appears to be largely positive, with consensus among legislators regarding the necessity of enhancing educational opportunities for West Virginians. Supporters argue that the bill is a step towards addressing workforce development challenges by improving educational access for those less likely to pursue higher education due to job constraints. The focus on practical work experience through cooperative education has received favorable attention, indicating a proactive approach to addressing the skills gap in the state.

Contention

While the bill has not faced significant opposition, potential points of contention may arise regarding the efficacy of the pilot program and how success will be evaluated. There may also be inquiries about the allocation of resources and the methods by which the council determines the ongoing eligibility of Potomac State College. As a pilot program with a defined timeline, stakeholders will be closely observing results and discussing implications for future workforce education initiatives across the state.