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HB 180

Work-Based Learning Coordinator Pilot Program; established, report, sunset.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 5 co-sponsors

Virginia pilot program creates Work-Based Learning Coordinators to connect students with career opportunities, but Appropriations Committee recommends rejection due to budget concerns.

Left in Committee Appropriations
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Bill Summary · HB 180

Legislative bill overview

HB 180 establishes a pilot program in Virginia to create Work-Based Learning Coordinator positions that would connect students with career-focused learning opportunities outside traditional classrooms. The bill includes a sunset provision, meaning the program would automatically expire after a set period unless renewed, and requires a report on the program's outcomes.

Why is this important

Work-based learning programs can improve student engagement, career readiness, and workforce pipeline development by bridging the gap between education and employment. The pilot approach allows Virginia to test the program's effectiveness and cost-efficiency before deciding whether to expand it statewide, which could influence how other states approach career education funding.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget concerns: The Appropriations Committee's "lay on the table" recommendation (which effectively kills the bill) suggests fiscal constraints or disagreement over funding priorities for new coordinator positions during a tight budget cycle
  • Coordinator role definition: Questions likely exist about job duties, qualifications, reporting structure, and whether existing staff could absorb these responsibilities versus creating new positions
  • Program measurement: Determining what constitutes success and how to measure ROI on coordinator salaries versus actual student outcomes and job placement rates

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

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