Bill > HB4152

This bill, the Workforce-Education Partnership Act, aims to encourage businesses in West Virginia to invest in developing skilled workers by allowing them to send their employees to participate in vocational training programs and high school classes. These programs can be offered by various educational institutions, including public schools, charter schools, private and parochial schools, and even homeschools. The bill defines key terms like "vocational programs" as accredited training for specific trades, "high school classes" as approved study programs, "business owner" as any operating business entity, "employee" as a worker who maintains their job status, and "educational contract" as a formal agreement for employee participation. Under this act, a business owner can enter into an educational contract to have an employee provide education, training, or mentoring, with the employee retaining their employment benefits. Crucially, business owners can claim a tax credit for 100% of the employee's wages paid during their educational participation, with an annual cap of $50,000 per business and a statewide cap of $5 million per fiscal year, ensuring minimal cost to the state. Employees must meet qualifications, and their participation should not replace certified teachers in core subjects but rather focus on specialized instruction in areas like trades, technology, business, and healthcare. The West Virginia Department of Tax and Revenue will manage the tax credit application process, while the Department of Education will oversee compliance with educational standards and report on the program's effectiveness.