Bill > H7127

This bill makes several changes to Florida's higher education and workforce training laws, primarily by updating definitions and requirements related to apprenticeships, career centers, and educational programs. Key provisions include redefining "journeyworker" to encompass a broader range of skilled workers with demonstrated expertise, and updating the definition of "related instruction" for apprenticeships to include various learning formats like electronic media and self-study. The bill also revises how career centers can be designated as "technical colleges," requiring them to offer specific types of certificate programs and adhere to accreditation standards. It clarifies that charter technical career centers can use the "charter technical college" designation if they meet certain program and accreditation criteria, and it updates reporting requirements for these centers. Additionally, the bill modifies provisions related to baccalaureate degree programs at Florida College System institutions, removes a temporary restriction on approving such programs, and adjusts the definition of "applied technology diploma" to "college credit certificate" across various sections concerning workforce education, student fees, and scholarship programs like Bright Futures. It also updates the composition of the Higher Education Coordinating Council to include the Chancellor of Career and Adult Education and revises the common placement test requirements for postsecondary readiness. Finally, the bill adjusts the timeline for submitting university accountability reports and modifies funding mechanisms for workforce education programs to emphasize weighted enrollment and program costs, while also introducing performance funding for programs that lead to high-skill, high-wage jobs and industry certifications.