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Bill

SB 25

Offshore Wind Industry Workforce Program and Fund; established, report, sunset.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jennifer Carroll Foy

Virginia creates an offshore wind workforce training program with a dedicated fund and reporting requirements to develop skilled workers for expanding wind energy industry jobs.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Bill Summary · SB 25

Legislative bill overview

SB 25 establishes a workforce development program and dedicated fund in Virginia to train and prepare workers for jobs in the offshore wind industry. The bill includes reporting requirements and a sunset provision, meaning the program will expire after a set period unless renewed by the legislature.

Why is this important

As Virginia develops offshore wind energy capacity, the state needs skilled workers for construction, installation, maintenance, and operations. This bill addresses potential workforce gaps and ensures local workers can access training for these jobs, which typically offer competitive wages and long-term career opportunities.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism and costs: Questions about how the fund will be financed (general revenue, industry contributions, or other sources) and whether costs are sustainable long-term
  • Program effectiveness and accountability: The fiscal impact statement and reporting requirements suggest scrutiny over whether training actually leads to employment and meets industry needs
  • Geographic equity: Concerns about whether training opportunities and resulting jobs will be distributed fairly across Virginia's regions or concentrated in coastal areas

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

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