Bill > AB912

This bill establishes a pilot civil service apprenticeship program designed to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities in California's correctional facilities. Specifically, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR), in collaboration with several state agencies including the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, will create a program by July 1, 2026, that allows individuals with disabilities to become environmental service technicians within correctional facilities. The bill highlights the significant employment challenges faced by people with disabilities, noting that as of 2023, their unemployment rate was 7.2% compared to 3.5% for those without disabilities. By creating this pilot program, the state aims to address systemic barriers to employment, leverage the talents of residents with disabilities, and provide meaningful career pathways. The program will be developed in consultation with labor representatives and involves multiple state agencies to ensure comprehensive support and implementation. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the broader goal of increasing workforce integration and economic opportunities for individuals with disabilities by breaking down accessibility challenges and employer prejudices.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB912