Bill > S3871

This bill establishes an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Apprenticeship Program within the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development to support the growth of AI talent in the state. The program will collaborate with AI companies to create apprenticeship opportunities focused on AI technology, data analytics, and automation, while also facilitating partnerships between employers and educational institutions. Employers participating in the program can receive a tax credit equal to half the wages paid to a qualified AI apprentice, up to $5,000 per apprentice per tax year. To qualify for the credit, the apprentice must be an unskilled or semi-skilled worker in the AI industry, employed for at least 20 calendar weeks as part of a training program that complies with state and federal standards. The bill defines the AI industry broadly, including technologies that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as speech recognition, decision-making, and generative AI that creates new content. The tax credits will be available for both corporate business taxes and gross income taxes, beginning in the 2026 tax year, with specific application procedures to be determined by the state director. The program aims to support workforce development in the emerging AI sector by providing financial incentives for companies to train and employ new AI professionals.

Labor and Employment

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3871