IL HB4296

Creates the Workforce Pipeline Act requiring each public high school, school district, and State Board-recognized nonpublic high school to provide access to at least one Pipeline Program in a high-need occupation beginning with the 2027-2028 school year

Establishes liability protections for participating employers, limiting civil liability to statutory duties when acting in good faith and complying with safety requirements, while requiring employers to maintain workers' compensation and general liability insurance

Provides a bid preference of up to 5% for employers participating in Pipeline Programs when contracting with institutions, and authorizes the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to establish competitive grants subject to appropriation

Requires parental consent for students under 18 to participate, allows optional student compensation determined by workforce partners, and permits articulation agreements for academic credit, credentials, or apprenticeship hours

Mandates annual one-page reporting by the State Board of Education to the General Assembly on program participation and outcomes, with the Act set to repeal on July 1, 2032