HB 16-1289 Summary

• Creates a Career Development Success Pilot Program in the Department of Education to provide financial incentives for school districts and charter schools to encourage students in grades 9-12 to complete qualified career development programs starting in the 2017-18 budget year.

• Provides up to $1,000 per student who successfully completes a qualified industry-credential program, internship, residency, construction apprenticeship/pre-apprenticeship program, or Advanced Placement computer science course.

• Requires the Workforce Development Council to publish annual lists (by August 15, 2016, then July 1 each year) of eligible programs aligned with high-demand jobs identified in the Colorado Talent Pipeline Report.

• Mandates the General Assembly appropriate at least $1 million annually, with the Department of Education distributing funds first to industry-credential completers, then internship/apprenticeship completers, then AP course completers if funds remain.

• Requires districts to forward 100% of received funds to their authorized charter schools; includes annual reporting requirements on program outcomes and participation demographics; repeals the section effective September 1, 2019.