The bill establishes a retail industry work group in Washington state, as recommended by a 2023 report on the future of the retail workforce. The work group, to be formed by the state board for community and technical colleges, will include representatives from higher education, business, labor, and workforce development. Its primary objectives are to identify valuable degrees, certificates, and apprenticeship programs for the retail workforce, assess gaps in educational opportunities, and recommend best practices for program design. Additionally, the work group will focus on creating career pathways with stackable credentials and identifying barriers to obtaining high-quality credentials in the retail sector.

Furthermore, the work group is tasked with recommending up to four colleges to pilot short-term credential and microcredential programs that align with the identified best practices. The bill defines a "state-registered apprenticeship program" and sets an expiration date for the section on July 1, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance the retail workforce by reducing turnover and promoting internal advancement through standardized credentials and educational pathways.