Bill > LD1705

This bill establishes the Career Advancement and Navigation Program within the Maine Department of Education, in collaboration with the Maine Community College System. The program requires hiring one college and career success coordinator at each community college campus to provide students with comprehensive support, including academic guidance, transition assistance, advising services, and referrals to on and off-campus resources. The bill mandates that the Department of Education conduct an annual assessment of adult education needs, submitting a detailed report to the Legislature by December 3, 2025, and each year thereafter. This report must include information about funding allocation, program outcomes, additional funding requirements, and recommendations for improvements. The bill also requires the department to provide a written explanation if adult education funds are not disbursed according to established procedures and to develop clear guidelines for using state funds for adult education programs. Additionally, the department must biennially convene a stakeholder group representing adult education directors, instructors, professional associations, and students to provide input on statewide goals, funding priorities, and program improvements. Importantly, the bill requires the Legislature to appropriate 100% of the state's obligation for adult education funding, addressing a decade-long issue of chronic underfunding and aiming to support workforce development, immigrant and refugee populations, and equitable access to education.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1705&snum=132