Higher Ed Bills Target Workforce Pathways

Lawmakers on the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee held a public hearing this week on several proposals aimed at better aligning Connecticut’s education system with workforce needs. 

The bills address key areas such as work-based learning, early college opportunities, and financial assistance programs that help students complete training.

Several proposals seek to make education and career pathways more accessible while helping employers build stronger talent pipelines across the state. 

Expanding ‘Learn and Earn’ Internships 

One of the key bills discussed was HB 5478, which focuses on expanding paid internships and improving access to work-based learning experiences. 

The proposal recognizes the important role employers play in preparing students for careers and includes provisions designed to help small businesses develop structured internship programs. 

Recognizing the resource constraints small employers often face, the bill tasks Connecticut’s public higher education systems with developing programs that train and support small businesses interested in offering internships.

This support includes assistance developing job descriptions, identifying learning objectives, and program management. 

This change allows employers to claim a tax credit for compensation paid to interns.

In addition, the proposal expands the state’s Human Capital Investment Tax Credit to include intern wages.

This change allows employers to claim a tax credit for compensation paid to interns, recognizing internships are a workforce investment. 

CBIA testified in support of the proposal, highlighting the role internships play in contributing to talent pipelines. 

“Internships are essential to strengthening the connection between education and the workforce,” CBIA policy director Danielle Cloud said.

“They give students hands-on experience and exposure to career pathways, while helping employers build talent pipelines and introduce young people to the opportunities available here in Connecticut.” 

Expanding Dual Enrollment Opportunities 

Lawmakers also considered SB 427, which expands dual enrollment opportunities for high school students. 

Dual enrollment programs allow students to take college-level courses while still in high school, meaning they can earn college credit before graduation.  

The proposal establishes a model agreement between high schools and colleges to support the development of these programs and create a coordinator role to track participation and outcomes across the state. 

The bill also includes a need-based scholarship program to help cover enrollment costs for students who may not otherwise be able to participate. 

Increasing Workforce Training Access 

HB 5427 expands Connecticut’s debt-free community college program to include workforce development and continuing education programs. 

Currently, the program primarily supports students pursuing degrees.

Expanding eligibility allows individuals enrolled in workforce development, continuing education or non-credit programs to receive financial support as well. 

Broadening access would allow more residents to obtain short‑term credentials and training tied to the skills employers are looking for. 

Flexible Degree Pathways 

Another bill under consideration, SB 396, allows higher education institutions to offer degree programs with as few as 90 credit hours. 

Under the proposal, colleges and universities could apply to establish these programs if they meet accreditation standards recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.   

Greater flexibility for degree structures helps students complete their education more quickly and at a lower cost.

Greater flexibility for degree structures helps students complete their education more quickly and at a lower cost, while giving institutions greater ability to design programs that align with employer demands. 

Together, these proposals reflect continued efforts by policymakers to strengthen Connecticut’s talent pipeline. 

Expanding access to internships, early college opportunities, and workforce training programs can help prepare students for careers while supporting employers’ need for skilled talent. 

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For more information, contact CBIA’s Danielle Cloud (860.244.1911).