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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Re-ref Com On Appropriations/Base Budget2026-05-13

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill appropriates $3.85 million in recurring funds to expand workforce training programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across up to 25 community colleges, $4.9 million in nonrecurring funds to implement digital credential systems statewide, and directs ApprenticeshipNC to develop an expedited pathway for apprentices to become teachers.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill addresses critical workforce gaps by preparing individuals with disabilities for employment through micro-credentials and job training, helping them gain independence and economic self-sufficiency.
• •They contend the digital wallet system modernizes how credentials are verified and shared with employers, streamlining hiring processes.
• •Supporters also see the teacher apprenticeship pathway as a solution to North Carolina's teacher shortage by creating faster routes into the classroom.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may question whether the $3.85 million in recurring funds is sufficient to meaningfully expand programs across all participating colleges or whether the digital wallet infrastructure costs are justified given the large upfront investment.
• •Some may express concerns about the complexity of coordinating multiple state agencies for the teacher apprenticeship study or worry that expedited teaching pathways could lower education standards if not carefully implemented.