House Bill No. 849, introduced by Representative Brass, aims to expand the eligible programs for the M.J. Foster Promise Program to include those associated with Louisiana Economic Development (LED) projects. The bill amends existing law to enhance the responsibilities of the Louisiana Workforce Commission's advisory council, which will now meet annually and as needed to address workforce needs related to LED projects. The council is tasked with identifying qualified programs that align with high-demand, high-wage jobs and will prioritize programs related to LED projects in its selection process. Additionally, the bill establishes an expedited review process for programs linked to urgent workforce needs, requiring the administering agency to act within 45 days.

The legislation also mandates that the secretaries of LED and the Louisiana Workforce Commission serve on the advisory council, with specific duties including maintaining a list of priority programs and notifying council members of new LED projects requiring workforce support. Furthermore, the Board of Regents is authorized to enter into data-sharing agreements with LED and the Workforce Commission to facilitate the selection of qualified programs and the creation of new associate degree programs. The bill repeals a specific provision from existing law, streamlining the eligibility requirements and focusing on enhancing workforce development in alignment with economic growth initiatives.

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