This bill aims to enhance the structure and funding of apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs in Florida by amending existing statutes. Key revisions include the establishment of uniform minimum standards and policies that require partnerships between local educational agencies and apprenticeship programs, ensuring clarity in funding allocations and responsibilities. The Department of Education is tasked with developing a standard model contract template for these partnerships, which must outline the roles of each party, funding details, and compliance with applicable laws. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a funding transparency tool by July 1, 2026, to provide historical funding data for apprenticeship programs.

The bill also revises the reporting requirements for apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs, changing the annual report publication date from September 1 to November 30, and expanding the report's content to include detailed financial and performance metrics. Furthermore, it introduces new requirements for meetings of the District Workforce Education Funding Steering Committee, ensuring public notice and opportunities for public comment, and allows for the use of communications media technology for these meetings. Overall, the bill seeks to improve accountability, transparency, and collaboration in workforce education initiatives.

Statutes affected:
S 1458 c1: 1011.80