NC S340

The NC Works Commission shall conduct a comprehensive review of the State's anticipated workforce demand and educational supply to identify skills gaps, working with the Department of Commerce, Department of Labor, Department of Public Instruction, UNC General Administration, and the North Carolina Community College System.

An initial written report with findings and recommendations is due to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee (JLEOC) by February 1, 2020, with a final report no later than 45 days before the 2021 General Assembly convenes, plus periodic progress reports at least every six months.

The report must include two-year and 10-year labor market projections by region and occupational clusters, assessment of educational supply from high schools through universities, and a state and regional skills-gap analysis.

The report shall recommend what degrees and certificates should be established to address regional skills gaps, identify duplicative educational programs, and identify data gaps needed for more detailed analysis with estimated costs.

The act becomes effective upon enactment.