The bill introduces the Alabama Workforce Pathways Act, which aims to create alternative pathways for students to earn a high school diploma tailored to their future career plans. The State Board of Education, along with the State Department of Education, is tasked with developing a curriculum for a Workforce Pathways diploma. This curriculum will be designed within 120 days of the pathway's approval and will include a list of required credits, courses, competencies, and experiences. The bill stipulates that all K-12 students in Alabama will receive the same high school diploma, but those in the Workforce Pathways program will only need to complete two math and two science credits, as opposed to the standard four credits in each subject required of other students. Instead, these students may earn credits through career and technical education courses that prepare them for immediate employment after graduation.

The bill also addresses the potential for additional funding to construct, retrofit, or upgrade career and technical education centers to ensure accessibility for every high school in the state. Furthermore, it mentions the possibility of providing extra funding for the Alabama Short-Term Credential Program, which offers scholarships for training in in-demand careers through the Alabama Community College System. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2024. The bill has been enrolled and passed through the Senate with amendments, and the House of Representatives has concurred with these amendments. The bill is sponsored by Senator Chesteen.