SB22-192 Summary

• Creates stackable credential pathways in Colorado by requiring the Department of Higher Education to develop processes aligning nondegree credentials (certificates, apprenticeships, industry certifications) with degree programs in high-demand industries by June 15, 2023.

• Establishes "Credentials to Support Colorado Jobs Cash Fund" with $1 million appropriated for 2022-23 fiscal year to support development and implementation of stackable credential pathways aligned with industries identified in the Colorado Talent Report.

• Requires allocation of $1.8 million to community and technical colleges and local district colleges for 2022-23 to fund student access to nondegree credential programs that are part of industry-aligned pathways and address critical job shortages.

• Mandates creation of stackable credential pathways for at least three growing industries by January 1, 2024, and two additional industries by January 1, 2025, including competency frameworks and credential inventories from multiple providers.

• Requires reporting to education committees by December 29, 2023, and December 31, 2025, including data on credentials earned disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and gender; sections sunset July 1, 2024-2026.