Titles the act the “Protect Workers in the age of AI Act.” Adds GS 143B-438.14A, establishing the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Workforce Transition Program (Program) and the AI Workforce Transition Fund (Fund) in the Department of Commerce (DOC). Directs the Program to use any funding to support workers displaced due to artificial intelligence or automation by providing job retraining, credentialing programs, and workforce education. Prioritizes training programs in health care, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, and other skilled trades. Requires employers receiving State economic incentives to report layoffs attributable to automation or AI to DOC. Authorizes DOC to engage in partnerships to carry out GS 143B-438.14A. Makes conforming change to GS 115D-20.

Directs the State Education Assistance Authority to transfer $50 million to DOC of unencumbered, nonrecurring funds remaining at the end of 2025-26 that would otherwise be carried forward into 2026-27 for opportunity scholarship grants. Appropriates those funds to DOC to establish the AI Workforce Transition Fund to provide grants to community colleges and workforce training providers.

Effective July 1, 2026.