Bill > SJR20

This joint resolution requests the Virginia Board of Workforce Development to conduct a comprehensive study of the current funding model for noncredit workforce credential programs at comprehensive community colleges, which are currently self-sustaining and funded solely through student tuition and fees. The study will involve assembling a diverse work group including representatives from state government, education, labor, and industry to evaluate the existing funding challenges, such as low instructor salaries, program cancellations due to insufficient tuition, and limitations on meeting workforce training demands. Specifically, the work group will examine disparities between noncredit and credit course funding, consult with community college leadership and industry representatives, review instructor compensation strategies, assess program capacity and enrollment demands, explore funding models from other states, and develop recommendations for reforming the funding approach. The board is required to submit a preliminary report by November 1, 2024, and a final report by June 30, 2025, with the ultimate goal of improving the sustainability of workforce credential programs and better supporting the training needs of Virginia's emerging workforce.

Budget and Finance

https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?251+sum+SJ20