Bill > B26-0567

This bill establishes the DC Young Adult Corps Program to provide paid, full-time service opportunities for District residents aged 17 to 24 who have recently graduated high school or obtained a high school equivalency credential, or meet other eligibility criteria set by the Department of Employment Services (DOES). The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME) will be responsible for the program's overall design, setting priorities for service placements based on District needs, and ensuring alignment with educational and workforce goals, while DOES will manage participant selection, placement, compensation, and the program's day-to-day operations. Participants will engage in structured service placements with approved organizations, known as "host organizations," which can include government agencies, schools, nonprofits, and other entities, and will be expected to work at least 30 hours per week for up to 12 months, receiving wages at or above the District's minimum wage, and potentially a completion award of up to $3,000 upon successful completion of their service year. The program aims to build participants' skills, strengthen the District's workforce by addressing community needs in areas like education and public safety, support local organizations, and retain talent by connecting participants to future opportunities, with a dedicated "DC Young Adult Corps Fund" established to support completion awards, wage subsidies, and program administration. The bill also mandates data collection, annual reporting to the Mayor and Council, and independent evaluations every three years to assess the program's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Government Affairs

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0567