The bill aims to address Washington's critical workforce gap by amending the advanced computing surcharge and enhancing investments in workforce education. It highlights the projected job growth in various sectors, including advanced computing, healthcare, and skilled trades, while noting a significant shortfall of credentialed workers. To combat this issue, the bill proposes expanding the Washington college grant program for families earning up to 70% of the median family income, increasing teacher training programs, and funding work-study salaries for students engaged in STEM research.

Key amendments include the introduction of a workforce education investment surcharge on select advanced computing businesses, set at 1.22% of their gross income, with specific reporting and payment requirements. The bill also clarifies definitions related to advanced computing and outlines exemptions for certain healthcare providers. Revenues generated from this surcharge will be allocated to the workforce education investment account. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.