The proposed Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act aims to improve workforce participation and readiness in West Virginia by establishing the West Virginia Micro-Credential Program under the Higher Education Policy Commission. This program will recognize skills gained through project-based and experiential learning. The bill also expands tax credits for apprenticeship training programs, allowing contributions to voluntary portable benefits plans without creating an employer-employee relationship. Additionally, it removes the requirement for military-trained applicants to pass a proficiency examination for professional licensure and clarifies the qualifications for these applicants.

The legislation includes amendments to existing tax codes, allowing taxpayers to subtract contributions to voluntary portable benefits plans from their taxable income starting January 1, 2026, and modifies the tax credit structure for apprenticeship training to ensure wages paid to apprentices in recognized trades are eligible for credits. It also streamlines the licensure process for military-trained applicants by allowing them to obtain licenses based on their military training and experience, specifying documentation requirements, and eliminating initial application fees. Overall, the bill seeks to create a more flexible environment for independent contractors and apprentices, ultimately strengthening the state's workforce.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-13W-1, 30-1B-2, 5B-1-11, 11-21-12o, 11-24-6d, 21-18-1, 21-18-2, 21-18-3, 21-18-4, 21-18-5
Committee Substitute: 11-13W-1, 30-1B-2, 11-21-12o, 11-24-6d, 18B-3D-8, 21-18-1, 21-18-2, 21-18-3, 21-18-4, 21-18-5