Bill > SB739

This bill establishes the Virginia Youth Empowerment and Mentoring Grant Fund and Program, which will be managed by the Department of Criminal Justice Services. The purpose of this initiative is to provide grants to local organizations that will connect mentors with "high-risk youth," meaning young people who are more likely to become involved in the criminal justice system. The ultimate goal is to help these young people transition into careers in "certified high-wage trades," which are jobs that require specific certifications and offer good pay. The bill also outlines that the Fund will be a special, non-reverting fund in the state treasury, meaning any money left at the end of a fiscal year will remain in the Fund for future use, and it will be used to award grants and administer the program. The Department will set guidelines for these grants and track their effectiveness by measuring reductions in crime in targeted areas and the success of youth placements in the workforce, including their enrollment in apprenticeships and their ability to retain jobs.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB739