Career Pathways Program appropriation

SF 1543 appropriates $500,000 from the workforce development fund to fund the Minnesota Virtual Academy's career pathways program in partnership with Operating Engineers Local 49, specifically for Independent School District No. 294 in Houston. The program provides up to five semesters of courses leading to eligibility for the Operating Engineers Local 49 apprenticeship program, with additional academic and counseling support from participating school districts. The bill requires targeted outreach to students of color, Indigenous students, low-income students, and other underserved groups throughout Minnesota. It mandates annual reports detailing program participation, spending, demographics, and recommendations for statewide program improvement, with funds available until June 30, 2027.