Bill > HB289

This bill establishes an Incarcerated Individual Apprenticeship Program within the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, designed to provide incarcerated individuals with paid apprenticeship opportunities in state, local, or private sector entities. The program aims to help inmates develop marketable job skills and earn money that can be used after their release. Participating employers will determine wages, but must pay at least the state minimum wage, and will also pay the department a daily rate for each incarcerated apprentice. The department will typically credit these payments to the individual's account, though they may redirect funds to support the apprentice's dependents if needed. The Division of Correction will be responsible for the incarcerated individual's safety, transportation, and basic needs during the apprenticeship, with costs covered by the state, municipal corporation, county, or private entity depending on the placement. Importantly, apprentices will remain subject to existing disciplinary rules and will receive a certificate upon successful program completion within 30 days of their scheduled release. The program is independent of Maryland Correctional Enterprises and will prioritize skilled trades to maximize inmates' future employment prospects. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and allows the department to create regulations to implement the program.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0289?ys=2025RS