Bill > SB461

This bill updates West Virginia's workforce investment laws to align with the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), establishing the "West Virginia Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act." It renames the existing West Virginia Workforce Investment Act and amends several sections of the code to reflect this change, while also adding a new section on open meetings and public information. Key provisions include defining terms like "Board" (West Virginia Workforce Development Board), "Local area," and "WIOA," and outlining the composition and responsibilities of the West Virginia Workforce Development Board. This board, which must meet federal WIOA requirements for representation from businesses, labor organizations, community-based organizations, and government officials, will advise the Governor and Legislature on workforce investment and assist the Governor in developing and implementing the state's workforce development plan. The bill also details the board's duties, such as promoting higher-paying jobs and careers, developing strategies for career pathways, improving the one-stop delivery system, and enhancing technological improvements for service access. It mandates that the board conduct business in an open manner and make information publicly available. Furthermore, state agencies receiving workforce funding must report to the board, and Workforce West Virginia will provide administrative support and facilitate coordination between the board and local workforce investment activities. The bill also establishes a Workforce Investment Interagency Collaborative Team to address issues and improve the workforce development system, requiring agencies to enter into memorandums of understanding to maximize coordination and eliminate duplication of services.