The bill aims to enhance access to career opportunities for students aged 16 and 17 who are involved in or have completed preparatory secondary career and technical education programs. It recognizes that while these programs provide valuable hands-on experience and training, existing age restrictions imposed by state agencies hinder students from starting coursework, obtaining licenses or certifications, and entering the workforce. To address these barriers, the bill directs the office of the superintendent of public instruction to expand a statewide career and technical education task force, which will review current laws and policies and propose necessary changes to improve access for these students.

Additionally, the bill amends the composition and responsibilities of the statewide career and technical education task force. New representatives from various sectors, including school district career and technical education directors, worksite learning coordinators, and labor organizations, are added to ensure diverse input. The task force is tasked with developing recommendations to enhance work-integrated learning opportunities, improve program administration, and identify barriers to youth employment. It will also assess existing agency rules that impose age restrictions and propose changes to facilitate better access to training and employment for minors. The task force is required to report its findings by November 15, 2026, and the section of the bill will expire on June 30, 2027.