Bill > H3983

This bill establishes the Emerging Technologies Workforce Training Trust Fund, a dedicated financial resource aimed at supporting workforce development in cutting-edge technology fields. The fund will be administered by the Department of Career Services and the Commonwealth Corporation Foundation, and can receive funding from state appropriations, private sector contributions, federal grants, and other donations. The fund's primary objectives include providing grants to educational institutions and training organizations to develop programs in blockchain, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and renewable energy technologies; sponsoring scholarships and paid internships with a focus on underrepresented populations; creating work-based learning opportunities like apprenticeships; funding public awareness campaigns about emerging technology careers; and developing regional workforce strategies. The Commonwealth Corporation Foundation will be responsible for managing the fund's expenditures and will be required to submit an annual report detailing grant awards, participant training and employment outcomes, private sector contributions, and recommendations for program improvements. The report will be distributed to various legislative committees and published online. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and notably, any money remaining in the fund at the end of a fiscal year will not revert to the General Fund, ensuring continued investment in emerging technology workforce development.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3983