This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically focusing on the establishment of a community college apprenticeship and workforce development program fund. The fund will be administered by the Office and will consist of revenues generated from a new surcharge imposed on businesses, corporations, and small businesses that employ fifty or more employees. The surcharge will be set at one percent of the payroll taxes paid during the taxable year, starting from December 31, 2025. The bill also mandates that the Department separately account for these revenues and deposit them into the newly established fund.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Office in terms of creating an application process for community colleges to access the fund, as well as the authority to adopt rules and prescribe forms for its administration. The definition of "community college" will align with existing statutes. Overall, the bill aims to enhance workforce development through financial support for community colleges while ensuring that the revenue generated from the surcharge is specifically allocated for this purpose.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-5304, 43-1015, 43-1112, 43-1712, 15-1401, 42-1116, 43-206, 35-146, 35-147