Introduced February 25, 2026
SB249
Log in to followAN ACT relating to workforce development and declaring an emergency.
Create a new section of KRS 151B to grant the governor, in consultation with the Kentucky Workforce Innovation Board, the authority to approve all eligible workforce training programs for federal Workforce Pell Grants and coordinate approval of eligible workforce training programs to avoid duplicative payments; require the board to establish an internal procedure to determine that a program meets applicable federal requirements and ensure that the implementation of this procedure does not impose requirements more restrictive than or inconsistent with any applicable federal rules governing the Workforce Pell Grants; EMERGENCY.
In effect since April 13, 2026
This act carries an emergency clause, so it took effect as soon as it became law instead of waiting the usual 90 days after the session adjourned (Ky. Constitution § 55).
Plain-language summary
This bill sets up a state process for approving workforce training programs that qualify for federal Workforce Pell Grants, giving the governor that approval authority in consultation with the Kentucky Workforce Innovation Board. The board is required to create an internal review procedure to confirm programs meet federal requirements, without adding rules that go beyond what federal law requires. Because it was declared an emergency, the law took effect immediately upon signing. Who it may affect: people seeking job training or workforce education, workforce training program providers, and community and technical colleges.
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Legislative History
Primary Sponsor
Phillip Wheeler
Senator · Senate District 31
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