Committee hears bill to create adult workforce diploma program for ages 21–40 with outcome‑based payments to providers

Senator Brass presented Senate Bill 193 as a hearing‑only measure to create a Georgia Adult Workforce Diploma Program that would give adults ages 21 to 40 the opportunity to complete an accredited high‑school diploma while developing employability and career‑technical skills. Brass described the proposal as complementary to the existing Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) offerings, which serve younger students and have an age cutoff.

The bill establishes a framework under which approved third‑party providers would be paid through a tiered, outcome‑oriented structure: some funds would cover up‑front costs but the bulk of payments would follow measurable milestones and graduation. Brass and committee members characterized the payment structure as an accountability mechanism that shifts risk toward providers and incentivizes completion. The author said approved programs would report annually on success and outcomes.

Members asked about provider accountability, reporting, the program’s relationship to TCSG and whether TCSG supported the measure; Brass said TCSG supports the bill. The committee raised concerns about opening state funds to private providers and emphasized the importance of reporting and fiscal controls; Brass said the payment schedule and reporting requirements provide the principal accountability. The author said the program seeks roughly $5 million (subject to appropriations) to launch.

Witness testimony (employers and trade association representatives) emphasized workforce need and apprenticeship links; committee members praised the idea and urged attention to outreach and quality control. As a hearing item, the committee did not vote on SB 193; members requested further details on appropriations, performance metrics and oversight.

Ending: The committee adjourned after discussing implementation mechanics and appropriations; no committee vote was recorded.