The bill aims to enhance career planning opportunities for students in Florida by amending several statutes related to work-based learning and career education. It mandates that work-based learning opportunities be scheduled to maximize student access and participation. Additionally, it requires high schools to host annual career fairs that provide students aged 16 and older the chance to meet with potential employers offering paid work experiences, including registered preapprenticeship and apprenticeship programs. The bill also stipulates that students' personalized academic and career plans must be reviewed annually starting in high school, with necessary revisions made and signed by the student, their parent or guardian, and a school counselor.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new section that allows students to earn postsecondary credit and career education clock hours for training acquired through apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs. The Board of Governors and the State Board of Education are tasked with adopting regulations and rules to facilitate this process, which includes evaluating credentials and ensuring uniformity in awarding credits. A workgroup will be formed to prioritize postsecondary course equivalencies and determine the minimum credits or hours to be awarded for these programs, with recommendations due by March 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 571 Filed: 1001.43