HB 2177-S - DIGEST
(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 2ND SUB)

Creates the rural county high employer demand jobs program to: (1) Meet the workforce needs of business and industry in rural counties by assisting students in earning certificates, associate degrees, or other industry-recognized credentials necessary for employment in high employer demand fields; and

(2) Provide qualifying student awards in the amount equal to tuition fees and required services and activities fees when the student enrolls in a community or technical college program that prepares him or her for a high employer demand field.

Requires the state board for community and technical colleges to: (1) Administer the program and adopt rules necessary to implement the program;

(2) In consultation with a community or technical college located in an eligible county, and the county's workforce development council, identify high employer demand fields within the eligible counties; and

(3) Award grants to certain students in the amount equal to the cost of tuition fees and required services and activities fees.

Creates the rural jobs program account.