House Bill No. 849 aims to expand the eligible programs for the M.J. Foster Promise Program, which provides financial assistance for students pursuing associate degrees or shorter-term postsecondary credentials in high-demand, high-wage occupations. The bill amends existing law to include programs associated with Louisiana Economic Development (LED) projects, thereby prioritizing workforce needs linked to these initiatives. Key provisions include the requirement for the Louisiana Workforce Commission to convene an advisory council annually and as needed to address workforce needs related to LED projects. The council will also review and designate qualified programs, ensuring that programs related to LED projects receive priority in the selection process.

Additionally, the bill mandates the secretary of LED to maintain a list of priority programs that support workforce needs for LED projects and to notify the council of new projects requiring workforce development support. The Board of Regents is authorized to enter into data-sharing agreements with LED and the Louisiana Workforce Commission to facilitate the selection of qualified programs and streamline the creation of new associate degree programs. The bill repeals a specific provision from existing law, further refining the eligibility criteria and processes for the M.J. Foster Promise Program.

Statutes affected:
HB395 Original: 17:1(C), 17:2(A)(13)
HB395 Engrossed: 17:1(C), 17:2(A)(13)