Bill > HB4595

This bill establishes criteria for approving short-term training programs to be eligible for federal Workforce Pell Grants, which are financial aid awards for postsecondary education. The bill defines "eligible workforce training programs" as those meeting specific federal requirements, and also defines "high-skill," "high-wage," and "in-demand" industry sectors or occupations, which are those requiring education beyond high school, paying above 150% of the federal poverty level, or identified as having job growth or shortages, respectively. The Governor, in consultation with the West Virginia Workforce Development Board, will approve programs if they prepare students for at least one of these types of industries or occupations. The West Virginia Workforce Development Board is tasked with proposing rules for legislative approval, and all provisions of the bill must comply with federal rules for the Workforce Pell Grant program, with federal law taking precedence in case of conflict. This act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Government Affairs

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4595&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill