AN ACT REQUIRING THE OFFICE OF WORKFORCE STRATEGY TO CONVENE A WORKING GROUP TO EXPAND PAID WORK-BASED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES.

HB 7094 requires Connecticut's Office of Workforce Strategy to form a working group by January 2026. This group must develop a plan for a state grant program to expand paid internships and work-based learning opportunities for students in postsecondary education (like community colleges and universities). The plan must evaluate current programs, assess regional and industry needs, create a model for employer-student participation, and detail how grants would be awarded, including eligibility and funding levels. The bill directly affects students seeking paid work experience, employers offering such opportunities, and higher education institutions.