The bill seeks to improve and streamline higher education financial aid programs in West Virginia, with a particular emphasis on workforce development. It repeals the existing Learn and Earn Cooperative Education Program and introduces significant amendments to the Code of West Virginia concerning higher education grants, scholarships, and loans. Notable changes include the establishment of block grants within the Learn and Earn Grant Program, a redefinition of administrative costs, and clarifications regarding the medical student loan program, including award amounts, service commitments, and repayment terms. Additionally, the bill merges the higher education adult part-time student grant with the higher education grant, revising eligibility requirements for the PROMISE scholarship and the WV Invests grant programs.

The legislation also creates new programs aimed at addressing workforce needs, such as the Health Sciences Loan Repayment Program and the Mental Health Provider Loan Repayment Program, both managed by the Higher Education Policy Commission. These programs are designed to provide financial assistance to medical and mental health professionals who commit to serving in underserved areas. Furthermore, the bill establishes the Future Workforce Grant Program to support students in short-term training programs, outlines the allocation process for distributing funds, and sets guidelines for grant awards based on tuition costs and program demand. It also amends the PROMISE Scholarship Program to ensure annual awards do not exceed $4,750 while maintaining eligibility criteria related to GPA and community service. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and support workforce development in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18B-3D-1, 18B-3D-2, 18B-3D-3, 18B-3D-4, 18B-3D-5, 18B-3D-6, 18C-3-1, 18C-3-3, 18C-5-6, 18C-5-7, 18C-7-6, 18C-9-3, 18C-9-5
Committee Substitute: 18B-3D-1, 18B-3D-2, 18B-3D-3, 18B-3D-4, 18B-3D-5, 18B-3D-6, 18C-3-1, 18C-3-3, 18C-5-6, 18C-5-7, 18C-7-6, 18C-9-3, 18C-9-5
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 18B-3D-1, 18B-3D-2, 18B-3D-3, 18B-3D-4, 18B-3D-5, 18B-3D-6, 18C-3-1, 18C-3-3, 18C-5-6, 18C-5-7, 18C-7-6, 18C-9-3, 18C-9-5
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 18B-3D-1, 18B-3D-2, 18B-3D-3, 18B-3D-4, 18B-3D-5, 18B-3D-6, 18C-3-1, 18C-3-3, 18C-5-6, 18C-5-7, 18C-7-6, 18C-9-3, 18C-9-5