Funding for GED programs advanced

A bill that would allocate funding to private entities offering high school equivalency programs was advanced from general file May 12.

LB382, introduced by Omaha Sen. Tanya Cook, would provide grant funding to any entity, other than an educational institution, that runs a qualified high school equivalency training program. Cook said it is important to continue providing easy access to educational opportunities across the state.

“We need to recognize the vital challenge in preparing an adult workforce in which all individuals possess basic reading, writing, mathematics and computer skills,” she said. “If we want to continue to attract jobs and employers to the state, it is essential that we provide easy access to educational opportunities for all Nebraskans.”

An Education Committee amendment, adopted 30-0, would authorize a transfer of $400,000 from the Job Training Cash Fund to support the grant program. The amount of grant funding would depend on the number of enrolled students.

Literacy Center of the Midlands in Omaha currently is the only program that would qualify for funding under the bill.

Senators advanced the bill to select file on a 30-0 vote.