(The Center Square) – Legislation in the North Carolina House of Representatives is filed to direct the state to reevaluate college degree requirement for state jobs and recognize work experience.
This includes military service and apprenticeships. Rep. John Bell, R-Wayne, said the bill can potentially help fill vacant positions while opening the door to workers who may be skilled and experienced but lack a diploma.
Reduce Barriers to State Employment, also known as House Bill 177, is a single page of 21 lines and would become effective immediately if enacted.
The State Human Resources Commission would be directed to assess each position of the state agencies, departments and institutions for necessary educational, experiential and training requirements. It would be tasked with determining if experience and training are usable rather than a requirement for higher education degrees.