Governor signs bill reauthorizing the Technical Vocational Education Program

Kuskokwim Learning Academy students gather for a historic photo with Governor Bill Walker right after he signed Rep. Fansler's HB 141. Photo by Dean Swope

Rep. Fansler’s HB 141 Extends the Program for Three Years to Support Jobs and Economic Development Across Alaska.

Today (Aug. 29th), Alaska Governor Bill Walker officially signed House Bill 141 into law, reauthorizing the Technical Vocational Education Program (TVEP) for another three years. HB 141 was sponsored by Representative Zach Fansler (D-Bethel) and passed both chambers of the Alaska Legislature with broad bipartisan support.

“We’re grateful both bodies agreed to extend this program for another three years. In the last fiscal year alone, this program served 10,295 youth and adults,” said Rep. Fansler. “TVEP addresses a real need, providing valuable workforce development to train and educate Alaskans for Alaska jobs. My office will continue to be involved in promoting education and job training opportunities within the district and around the state.”

TVEP was initially created by the Alaska Legislature in 2000 with the purpose of enhancing the quality and accessibility of job training across the state, as well as aligning training opportunities with regional workforce needs. Programs receiving TVEP funds serve youth and adults from every region of Alaska and have helped meet local demands for education and training in everything from healthcare to diesel engines to hard rock mining.

For more information, please contact Alaska House Majority Coalition Press Secretary Mike Mason at (907) 444-0889.

Gov. Walker (at right) and Lt. Gov. Byron Mallot (center) join students from the Kuskokwim Learning Academy in an Eskimo Dance in celebration of the signing of HB 141 in Bethel last week. Photo by Dean Swope