HB 21-1149 Summary

• Establishes an industry-driven energy sector career pathway for implementation by the 2022-23 academic year, defining the energy sector to include electromechanical generation, renewable energy, energy efficiency, electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, carbon capture, and hydrogen fuel cell technology.

• Creates the Strengthening Photovoltaic and Renewable Careers (SPARC) Workforce Development Program to provide funding and support for training, apprenticeships, and education programs in energy sector occupations through the Department of Labor and Employment, State Workforce Development Council, and higher education institutions.

• Establishes a $5 million SPARC Program Fund with an initial $5 million transfer from the general fund on July 1, 2021, available for appropriation through fiscal year 2024-25 for training programs, scholarships, apprenticeships, equipment, transportation, and career counseling.

• Prioritizes training for individuals impacted by COVID-19 job losses or industry decline since January 1, 2019, and prioritizes Black, Indigenous, communities of color, and low-income communities to address environmental justice concerns.

• Requires annual reporting to legislative committees and automatically repeals the SPARC program on July 1, 2026, with all unexpended funds returning to the general fund.