The bill H.34 amends 10 V.S.A. § 540 to enhance workforce education and employment leadership in Vermont. It designates the Commissioner of Labor and the Executive Director of the Office of Workforce Strategy and Development as co-leaders responsible for coordinating the state's workforce system. The bill introduces new provisions that emphasize the importance of aligning workforce education and training programs with the needs of the available workforce, employers, and specific job credentials. It also establishes the Department of Labor as the State Workforce Agency under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and outlines various duties for both leaders, including developing strategies to reduce layoffs, providing reemployment services, and maintaining a comprehensive inventory of workforce programs.

Additionally, the bill includes several deletions from the previous law, such as the removal of specific duties related to advising the Governor on workforce integration and the requirement for businesses receiving state funding to submit detailed training reports. Instead, it focuses on ensuring coordination among state agencies, improving employment outcomes for individuals receiving public assistance, and establishing job centers. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to create a more integrated and effective workforce development system in Vermont.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-540
As Passed By the House -- Official: 10-540
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 10-540