(a)      There is a Partnership for Workforce Quality Fund in the Department managed and supervised by the Secretary.

      (b)      (1)      The Fund is a continuing, nonlapsing fund which is not subject to § 7-302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

            (2)      The Treasurer shall separately hold and the Comptroller shall account for the Fund.

            (3)      Any investment earnings of the Fund shall be paid into the Fund.

      (c)      The Fund may consist of any of:

            (1)      Moneys appropriated by the State to the Fund;

            (2)      Moneys made available to the Fund through federal programs or private contributions;

            (3)      Application or other fees paid to the Program in connection with the processing of requests for financial assistance; and

            (4)      Any other moneys made available to the Fund.

      (d)      The Department may use moneys in the Fund to:

            (1)      Provide grants to defray the costs of workforce training; and

            (2)      Pay expenses for administrative, actuarial, legal, and technical services for the Program.