Bill > H0034

This bill proposes to reorganize and clarify the leadership of workforce education, employment, and training activities in Vermont by establishing dual leadership between the Commissioner of Labor and the Executive Director of the Office of Workforce Strategy and Development. The bill expands and details their specific responsibilities, including coordinating workforce programs, developing strategies to reduce layoffs, administering job centers, maintaining an electronic job board, and ensuring workforce activities align with labor market needs. For federal compliance, the Department of Labor will be designated as the State Workforce Agency, with the Commissioner serving as the State Workforce Administrator. The bill requires the Executive Director to produce a comprehensive biennial workforce report to legislative committees, which will include an evaluation of workforce investment system performance and identification of system priorities. The report will incorporate performance information from federally and state-funded workforce development programs. The changes aim to create a more integrated and strategic approach to workforce development in Vermont, with clear lines of responsibility and comprehensive reporting. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, providing time for agencies to prepare for the new organizational structure.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.34