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 and financial agreements between the parties involved. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a funding transparency tool by July 1, 2026, to provide historical funding data for apprenticeship programs.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the requirements for the District Workforce Education Funding Steering Committee, ensuring that meetings are publicly noticed and open to public comment, with all relevant workpapers distributed in advance. The funding model used to determine workforce education funding needs will now be provided to legislative appropriations committees at least two months before the regular session, enhancing transparency and accountability in the funding process. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1458 c1: 1011.80