The West Virginia Youth Summer Employment and Career Readiness Act establishes a statewide program aimed at providing paid summer employment and career readiness opportunities for youth aged 14 to 20. The program, administered by the Department of Commerce's Division of Workforce Development, seeks to enhance the workforce by offering structured work-based learning experiences, career exposure, and skill development through partnerships with public and private employers. The legislation emphasizes the importance of early work experience in improving educational and workforce outcomes, addressing workforce shortages, and retaining young residents in the state.

The Act outlines the creation of a special revenue fund to support the program, which will be funded through grants, donations, and legislative appropriations. It specifies the authorized uses of funding, including wage subsidies and training costs, and mandates annual reporting on program implementation and outcomes. Additionally, the Act provides immunities for employer partners participating in the program, protecting them from liability when hiring youth participants under certain conditions. Overall, the legislation aims to foster economic growth in West Virginia by preparing young individuals for successful careers and attracting businesses to the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5B-2P-1, 5B-2P-2, 5B-2P-3, 5B-2P-4, 5B-2P-5, 5B-2P-6, 5B-2P-7, 5B-2P-8, 5B-2P-9, 5B-2P-10
Committee Substitute: 5B-2P-1, 5B-2P-2, 5B-2P-3, 5B-2P-4, 5B-2P-5, 5B-2P-6, 5B-2P-7, 5B-2P-8, 5B-2P-9
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 5B-2P-1, 5B-2P-2, 5B-2P-3, 5B-2P-4, 5B-2P-5, 5B-2P-6, 5B-2P-7, 5B-2P-8, 5B-2P-9
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 5B-2P-1, 5B-2P-2, 5B-2P-3, 5B-2P-4, 5B-2P-5, 5B-2P-6, 5B-2P-7, 5B-2P-8, 5B-2P-9, 5B-2P-10