FL S1538

Establishes the Renewable Energy Jobs Assistance Program within the Department of Economic Opportunity to support growth and sustainability of Florida's renewable energy industry

Requires the department to determine which areas of the renewable energy industry have the greatest worker shortages and prioritize grants to applicants training for high-need positions

Provides low-interest loans with a maximum of $200,000 at 2 percent interest for tuition and related expenses at state universities, Florida College System institutions, or career centers; loans have a 4-year term with interest-only payments due in the 12th month, then combined principal and interest payments

Appropriates $20 million in nonrecurring General Revenue Fund dollars to the Department of Economic Opportunity for fiscal year 2018-2019 to implement the program

Takes effect October 1, 2018