This bill establishes a pilot program directed by the State Board of Career and Technology Education, in collaboration with the State Board of Education, to provide grants to public school districts for career and technology programs aimed at students in grades nine through twelve. To be eligible for these grants, school districts must demonstrate that the proposed program is not available within fifty miles, meets a workforce need, has public support, and fulfills any additional criteria set by the boards. The bill outlines the application process, which requires districts to submit their applications on a prescribed form for review and approval.

The bill allocates $10 million for the pilot program, with grant amounts determined based on the number of approved applicants and the costs of their proposed programs. It mandates that grant recipients submit a report one year after implementation, detailing expenditures, student participation, and recommendations for future operations. Additionally, the State Board of Education will assess whether the programs qualify for academic credit towards graduation requirements. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.