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Gov. Brian Kemp speaks at the state Capitol Monday before signing workforce development bills. Credit: Office of Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp.
Kemp signs workforce bills aimed at boosting talent pipeline in Georgia
In a mad dash to sign bills before the Tuesday deadline, Gov. Brian Kemp signed more pieces of legislation Monday focused on strengthening Georgia’s workforce.
“In order to be the best state in the country for business and economic growth, Georgia also has to be the Top State for Talent,” Kemp said in a news release. “Our skilled and highly qualified workforce is a major reason why job creators keep coming to and expanding in our state. Today, I’m proud to sign legislation that further strengthens our workforce so we can remain the best place for opportunity well into the future, ensuring all Georgians can succeed no matter their zip code.”
Kemp signed Senate Bill 556, which codifies the Georgia DREAMS Scholarship program under the Georgia Student Finance Commission. In addition, the bill loosens course restrictions to determine a student’s GPA for the HOPE scholarship, establishes a scholarship program for medical students and removes some requirements for part-time work study students at the Technical College System of Georgia.
“From streamlining professional licensing to strengthening educational opportunities, Georgia is leading the way to ensure our workforce is strong, equipped, and prepared for the jobs of tomorrow,” said state House Speaker Jon Burns in the news release. “The House will continue to support our business community, strengthen our workforce, and invest in the opportunities that keep Georgia thriving for generations to come.”
Kemp also signed House Bill 1302, also known as the Education and Workforce Strategy Act. The bill allows the newly named Office of Education and Workforce Strategy to coordinate with relevant state agencies on workforce development initiatives.
Here are the other five pieces of legislation Kemp signed Monday.
- House Bill 1328 expands the University of North Georgia military scholarship.
- House Bill 541 expands the Tuition Equalization Grant program to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing at specific insitutions.
- House Bill 1254 moves several licensing boards to the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office.
- Senate Bill 432 prevents tuition, technology fees and other funds from lapsing annually through 2030.
- Senate Bill 553 establishes clear pathways to licensure for specific construction industry professions.
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