Bill > S4012

This bill establishes the "New Economy Opportunity Skills System Pilot Program" to improve workforce development collaboration in New Jersey by creating a more integrated approach among local workforce development boards, community colleges, and county vocational school districts. The pilot program will be implemented in three local areas and focuses on developing joint workforce training programs with industry-recognized credentials, coordinating outreach and marketing efforts, integrating funding resources, and establishing performance evaluations. The State Employment and Training Commission will lead the initiative, consulting with the New Jersey Council of County Colleges and the New Jersey Council of County Vocational-Technical Schools to develop a statewide strategy for scaling the program. Community colleges and county vocational school districts will be designated as preferred providers of postsecondary education, workforce training, and adult literacy programs, with a specific mandate to help public assistance recipients prepare for employment. The commission is required to submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature detailing participant outcomes, program effectiveness, and recommendations for improvement. The pilot program will be funded through a combination of state and federal funds, with a preference for utilizing federal funding first, and is set to expire three years after its implementation.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4012