JFAC backs large adult education infusion and technical-college support; committee approves report and transfer exemptions

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee on March 11 approved new funding for the Division of Career Technical Education that includes a large, one-time general-fund allocation for adult education and literacy and ongoing support for technical colleges.

Senator Woodward moved the motion, which as presented on the record included authority to add $2,273,700 in spending authority for federal grants, $50,000,000 one-time from the general fund for adult education and literacy programs, and $10,000,000 ongoing from the general fund as trustee-and-benefit payments to postsecondary programs for distribution to technical colleges. The mover stated the committee action as an addition of $10,050,000 from the general fund and $2,273,700 in federal funds; however, the line-item amounts shown on the record list the $50,000,000 one-time adult-education appropriation and the $10,000,000 ongoing technical-college allocation separately. Committee members voted the motion forward with a do-pass recommendation.

Language presented and accepted by unanimous consent describes the use of the appropriated funds, requests a report from the Office of the State Board of Education on outcomes of adult education and literacy investments over the preceding five fiscal years, provides exemptions from object-transfer limitations for several Division of CTE programs, and imposes conditions, limitations, and restrictions on use of the funds. Senator Woodward’s unanimous-consent request to accept the language met no objections and the language will accompany the bill as it moves forward.

The committee recorded the vote on the motion as a do-pass recommendation. Members noted the funds aim to address adult literacy and workforce needs and to distribute support to technical colleges and related programs.