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Panel approves bill letting charter schools apply for workforce capitalization grants
Summary
The Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee voted to report favorably on a bill that would allow charter schools to access the workforce development capitalization incentive grant program and raise a program requirement from three to six programs, with members debating whether adding charters could reduce school-district grant awards.
The Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee on Thursday reported favorably on CS for SB 742, a bill that would allow charter schools to apply directly for funds under the workforce development capitalization incentive grant program and increase from three to six the number of programs for which each career center and Florida College System institution must offer a “money-back guarantee.”
The bill’s sponsor, Senator Simon, told the committee the change would let charter schools use the capitalization incentive to create or expand career and technical education programs that lead to industry certifications on the CAPE industry certification funding list.
The proposal drew a question from Senator Davis about whether including charter schools could reduce the amount of funding or the number of grants school districts receive. Senator Simon answered that the effect depends on whether the appropriation to the grant program is continued; “if the funds are still there, then yes, they [charter schools] will be able to receive those funds. If not, then no, they won't,” he said.
Nathan Hoffman of Foundation for Florida’s Future submitted an appearance form in support; he waived speaking time. No amendments were offered on the floor of the subcommittee. Senator Simon waived closing remarks and the committee clerk called the roll.
By roll call, the panel voted to report CS for SB 742 favorably. The committee did not specify a motion sponsor on the record. The committee’s favorable report advances the bill in the legislative process.
Votes at the subcommittee were recorded as follows: Senator Burgess — yes; Senator Kalatiued — yes; Senator Davis — yes; Senator Leake — yes; Senator Smith — yes; Vice Chair Bradley — yes; Chair Harrell — yes. Senator Trumbull was excused from the meeting.
The bill text in committee hearing noted two substantive changes: adding charter schools as eligible applicants to the capitalization incentive grant program and raising the required number of programs for which career centers and Florida College System institutions must offer a money-back guarantee from three to six.
If enacted, the change would not by itself increase the program’s budget; the program’s ability to award more grants or larger awards depends on future appropriations.
CS for SB 742 was reported favorably and will move forward in the legislative process for further consideration.
