This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code related to the Idaho Launch Grant Program and the In-Demand Careers Fund. It introduces new definitions, including the establishment of an "Advisory board" to oversee the program, and revises existing definitions to clarify eligibility criteria for students and institutions. Notably, it specifies that eligible coursework must be limited to programs requiring no more than an associate degree or equivalent training, and outlines the conditions under which grants can be awarded, including prioritization based on the pursuit of in-demand careers and financial need. The bill also mandates that the executive director of the workforce development council administer the program and report annually to the legislature on various metrics related to grant applications and outcomes.

Additionally, the bill establishes the In-Demand Careers Fund, which will be used to award grants and is funded through legislative appropriations, donations, and other sources. It outlines the process for distributing excess funds when there are more appropriations than participants, prioritizing health care careers and financial need. The provisions of the bill will be null and void after July 1, 2029, and it declares an emergency, making the act effective from July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 72-1204, 72-1205, 72-1206