The proposed bill introduces the "West Virginia Skilled and Ready to Work Internship and Apprenticeship Incentive Act," aimed at enhancing the state's workforce by providing tax incentives to employers who offer qualified internships and apprenticeships. The bill outlines the purpose of fostering a skilled labor market, attracting business investment, and promoting long-term economic growth in West Virginia. It defines "Qualified Internship or Apprenticeship" as a structured, paid work experience that meets specific criteria, including registration with relevant state or federal departments and a minimum of 120 hours of training.

Eligible employers can receive a tax credit of 50% of the wages paid to each qualified intern or apprentice, capped at $10,000 per individual per taxable year, with a total limit of $150,000 in credits per employer annually. The bill also establishes certification requirements for employers, mandates annual reporting to the Department of Economic Development, and specifies non-qualified positions that do not qualify for the tax credit, such as retail and food service roles. Overall, the legislation aims to incentivize the development of a skilled workforce while ensuring that the tax benefits are directed towards high-demand occupations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 30-44-1, 30-44-2, 30-44-3, 30-44-4, 30-44-5, 30-44-6