Bill > HB272

This bill establishes the Trade Education Assistance Act, which creates a new state program to provide financial support for New Mexico residents pursuing trade education programs. Eligible individuals must be New Mexico residents, have at least a high school diploma, be at least two years past high school, have at least one dependent, and be enrolled in a trade education program approved by the state's higher education department. The program will offer stipends of up to $30,000 per calendar year, which can be used for living expenses while participating in approved trade education programs focused on obtaining licenses or certificates in construction industries. Stipends will be awarded for up to six months and can be renewed for a total of two years. A new "trade education assistance fund" will be created, initially funded with a $100 million appropriation from the general fund, to support the program. The higher education department will be responsible for administering the fund, awarding stipends, creating program rules, and providing annual reports to legislative committees about the program's status, number of recipients, and types of trade education programs supported. The act will become effective on July 1, 2025, with the goal of supporting workforce development in trade-related fields.

Education

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=272&year=25