Bill > A02118

This bill establishes the "Learning for Work Act", which creates a comprehensive youth apprenticeship program aimed at addressing the low college and career readiness of high school graduates. The bill has three main components: a youth apprenticeship program, an enhanced regents professional diploma, and a tax credit for employers. The youth apprenticeship program will be a one or two-year program starting in grades eleven or twelve, combining academic coursework with on-the-job training in specific occupational areas. Local partnerships will be responsible for implementing the program, and they can receive grants to help recruit employers, monitor student progress, and coordinate training activities. The enhanced regents professional diploma will recognize students' professional skills and occupational training, requiring students to complete technical assessments, a work-skills employability profile, and a work-based learning experience. Employers participating in the youth apprenticeship program will be eligible for a tax credit of $1,500 per apprentice, which can be applied against their state tax liability. The bill aims to provide an alternative pathway for students who may not benefit from a traditional four-year college route, helping them develop workforce-ready skills and potentially reducing student debt while meeting the needs of local employers.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2118