WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 4533

Including Potomac State College in the definition of community and technical college education program for participation in the “Learn and Earn Program”

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gary Howell

HB 4533 adds Potomac State College to West Virginia's Learn and Earn Program, extending workforce education financial support to students at that regional institution.

To House Education
#education(higher)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 4533

Legislative bill overview

HB 4533 expands West Virginia's "Learn and Earn Program" to include Potomac State College as an eligible institution. Currently, the program covers community and technical colleges, but Potomac State College (a regional campus of West Virginia University) is excluded. This bill adds it to the definition of qualifying educational institutions for program participation.

Why is this important

The Learn and Earn Program provides financial support or work-study opportunities for students pursuing career and technical education. Including Potomac State College would extend these benefits to students at that institution, potentially increasing educational access in a rural West Virginia region and reducing barriers for students seeking affordable workforce training.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope creep: Critics may argue that selectively adding individual colleges undermines the clear distinction between community/technical colleges and four-year institutions, potentially leading to future requests from other regional campuses
  • Budget impact: Expanding program eligibility increases state spending unless the bill reallocates existing funds, which could face resistance if not offset
  • Equity concerns: Supporters of other regional campuses or institutions may question why Potomac State College receives special treatment, raising fairness questions about program administration

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.