The proposed bill aims to establish the Coalfield Career Pipeline Program within the West Virginia Code, specifically under Article 2 of the State Board of Education. This program is designed to enhance workforce training opportunities in coalfield counties, addressing the need for skilled labor in various industries. The bill outlines authorized uses for the program, which include mobile career and technical education (CTE) units, paid apprenticeships, certification programs, and collaborations with local employers.

Additionally, the bill identifies priority industries for workforce development, such as commercial driver licensing, diesel and heavy equipment mechanics, healthcare occupations, information technology, electrical work, construction, and emerging energy trades. It also stipulates that preference will be given to applications that involve multiple agencies, including boards of education, workforce development boards, economic development authorities, county commissions, and regional planning and development councils, thereby promoting a collaborative approach to workforce training in the region.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-47