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 in Washington State. It establishes a new section directing the office of the superintendent of public instruction to expand a statewide career and technical education task force. This task force will review existing laws, rules, and policies that impose age restrictions on students, which are not mandated by federal law and hinder their ability to engage in work or training in their respective fields. The task force is tasked with developing recommendations to improve access to career opportunities for these students.

Additionally, the bill amends existing legislation to include new representatives on the task force, such as school district career and technical education directors, worksite learning coordinators, and representatives from various industries and organizations. The task force will focus on expanding work-integrated learning opportunities, ensuring the successful administration of career and technical education programs, and identifying barriers to youth employment. It will also assess agency rules that impose age restrictions and recommend necessary changes to improve students' access to training and employment opportunities while maintaining safety protections for minors. The task force is required to report its findings by November 15, 2026, and the section will expire on June 30, 2027.