West VirginiaSB 4022026 Regular SessionSenate

Workforce Readiness and Opportunity Act

Sponsored By: Randy E. Smith (Republican)

Signed by Governor

§18B-3D-8

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Employer-aligned credentials, focus on trades

The commission works with Commerce, Education, charter schools, community and technical colleges, higher education, and employers to build job-ready credentials. It must keep talking with employers so content matches local and regional job needs. The law prioritizes credentials for construction, manufacturing, and energy jobs.

More help for colleges, track results

The program helps public colleges build and run micro-credential offerings and student supports. The commission can hire outside experts to design strong programs. It must verify completions and track whether credentials raise job placement and earnings. The commission can set rules under state administrative procedures to run the program.

Secure, portable education and skill records

The program sets rules for how micro-credentials are designed and verified. It sets technology standards for creating, keeping, and sharing credentials. Approved entities store your records securely, and you control who can see them. Records can include micro-credentials, degrees, licenses, certifications, and apprenticeships.

State micro-credentials for students and workers

The law creates a statewide micro-credential program inside the Higher Education Policy Commission. The Chancellor runs the program and sets standards for which skills count and how people prove mastery. Credentials can be earned online, with AI tools, hands-on, or on the job. The law takes effect 90 days after passage.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Randy E. Smith
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Mike Woelfel
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 163 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/14/2026

Senate concurred in House amendments and passed bill (Roll No. 656)

Yes: 34 • No: 0

House vote • 3/11/2026

Passed House (Roll No. 389)

Yes: 95 • No: 0

Senate vote • 2/24/2026

Passed Senate (Roll No. 209)