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Bill

HB 5244

To institute the Learn and Earn program for four-year schools.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ryan Browning and 5 co-sponsors

HB 5244 establishes a Learn and Earn program enabling West Virginia four-year college students to combine paid work with academic study, aiming to reduce debt and build workforce skills.

To House Education
#education(higher)
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Bill Summary · HB 5244

Legislative bill overview

HB 5244 proposes to establish a "Learn and Earn" program for four-year educational institutions in West Virginia. The bill would create a framework allowing students to combine academic study with paid work experience at participating colleges and universities. Specific program details, funding mechanisms, and implementation requirements are not yet available from the introduction stage.

Why is this important

Work-study and experiential learning programs can help students reduce educational debt while gaining practical skills and work experience. For West Virginia, this could address workforce development needs and improve college affordability in a state facing economic transitions. However, the actual impact depends entirely on program design, funding levels, and employer participation rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source unclear: The bill's introduction documents do not specify whether funding comes from state appropriations, institutional budgets, or federal sources, raising questions about fiscal sustainability
  • Wage and labor standards: No details provided on minimum wages, hours limits, or protections to ensure programs don't exploit student labor or reduce full-time job opportunities
  • Equity and access: Unknown whether all students can participate regardless of financial need, major, or institution type, potentially creating disparities in opportunity

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

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