The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish the West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance and expand the membership of the West Virginia-Ireland Trade Commission to include a focus on education. It mandates partnerships between state four-year and two-year higher education institutions in West Virginia and their counterparts in Ireland, which are necessary for eligibility for grant funding of up to $50,000, contingent on legislative appropriation. The Higher Education Policy Commission is tasked with determining which institutions qualify for these grants.

Additionally, the bill outlines the purposes of both the West Virginia-Ireland Trade Commission and the West Virginia-Ireland Education Alliance. The Trade Commission aims to enhance trade and investment relations, promote academic exchanges, and address mutual policy issues between West Virginia and Ireland. Meanwhile, the Education Alliance seeks to strengthen academic, cultural, and workforce connections, fostering opportunities for shared learning and international engagement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 29-36-2, 29-36-4, 29-36-6
Committee Substitute: 29-36-2, 29-36-4
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 29-36-2, 29-36-4
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 29-36-2, 29-36-4