For Immediate Release: Monday, September 9, 2024 
Contact: Office of Communications, Communications@MyFloridaCFO.com, 850.413.2842 

CFO Jimmy Patronis: Florida Boosts Apprenticeship Programs with $2 Million Workers’ Comp Insurance Rebate for Students

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted efforts to bolster Florida’s apprenticeship programs and the work-based learning programs for students 18 years old or less throughout the state by reimbursing the cost of workers’ compensation insurance to participating employers. During the 2024 Legislative Session, lawmakers provided $2 million to the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) to permit employers, including eligible school districts and Florida College System institutions, to apply to DFS for reimbursement of the proportionate cost of workers’ compensation premium paid during the fiscal year for students participating in work-based learning programs.

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “Apprenticeship programs and work-based learning are vital for the success of our state’s students and workforce. The invaluable skills learned while on the job empower students throughout their lives, providing them with career opportunities that not only enable them to earn a great living but also contribute meaningfully to their communities. Florida is already home to world-class colleges and universities, and with innovative ideas like this, we can continue to bolster our state’s apprenticeship opportunities and talent pipeline so more students and employers can benefit. I strongly encourage Florida businesses and universities to take advantage of this reimbursement program to help equip the next generation with the hands-on education opportunities required to be successful in their careers and pursue the American Dream.”

Senator Travis Hutson said, "Florida's apprenticeship programs are an amazing bridge between education and experience, transforming eager learners into skilled professionals. Our state’s businesses and job creators will benefit from this rebate program, and I was proud to see this good legislation across the finish line. Thank you to CFO Patronis and the DFS Team for being champions of workforce education, job growth, and business development in Florida."

Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly said, “In 2019, Governor DeSantis set a goal for Florida to become number one in workforce education by 2030 and Florida’s rankings as number one in talent development and number one in higher education are a clear sign that we got our homework done early. This rebate will help continue the great work of this administration, increasing registered apprentices by 45%, keeping Florida’s economy number one for job seekers and job creators.”

For more information and eligibility requirements for the Workers' Compensation Premium Reimbursement Work-based Learning (WBL) Program and answers to Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the Division of Workers’ Compensation website HERE.

Apprentice Florida encourages and assists businesses in establishing apprenticeships. For more information, please visit ApprenticeFlorida.com.

 ### 

About CFO Jimmy Patronis   
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and X (@FLDFS).