House Bill 741 Summary

• Adds new definition of "eligible adult learner" and revises the definition of "in-demand careers" to require careers with positive economic output for Idaho, job growth potential, and excludes careers requiring postbaccalaureate degrees.

• Changes grant application timeline by moving the final award announcement deadline from June 1 to June 30 of the academic year students graduate from high school.

• Establishes a prioritization system for grant awards: first by pursuit of in-demand careers based on a council-created matrix, then by financial need verified through tax returns or income documents.

• Removes the requirement that excess Advanced Opportunities Program funds be transferred to the In-Demand Careers Fund, instead allowing the state board of education to retain and appropriate those funds.

• Declares an emergency and makes the act effective July 1, 2024, with most provisions expiring July 1, 2029.