Bill H.34 amends the existing workforce education and training laws in Vermont to enhance the leadership structure and responsibilities of the workforce system. The bill designates the Commissioner of Labor and the Executive Director of the Office of Workforce Strategy and Development as co-leaders of workforce education and employment and training in the state. It introduces new responsibilities for these leaders, including ensuring the coordination of workforce programs, developing strategies to reduce employee layoffs, and establishing job centers. The bill also emphasizes the importance of aligning workforce education and training activities with the needs of the available workforce and employers, as well as requiring regular reporting and evaluation of workforce programs.

Additionally, the bill mandates the creation and maintenance of a publicly accessible inventory of workforce education and training programs, which will help assess the effectiveness of the workforce development system and identify best practices. It also requires the Executive Director to issue a comprehensive biennial workforce report to the Governor and relevant legislative committees, summarizing the accomplishments and performance of the workforce investment system. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

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