Bill > H1066

This bill establishes a "TAFDC Career Pathways Trust Fund" to help recipients of Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) pursue education and career goals. The fund, administered by Middlesex Community College through the Massachusetts Community College Executive Office, will provide financial assistance for students enrolled in certificate or two-year associate's degree programs at community colleges. This includes funding for work-study opportunities and reimbursing students for educational expenses. The bill also mandates the creation of "education opportunity coordinators" within the Department of Transitional Assistance to guide TAFDC recipients in developing career plans, accessing financial aid, and obtaining other necessary support, with each community college having at least one on-campus coordinator. Furthermore, the bill requires annual reporting on the program's effectiveness, including data on enrollment, graduation, and employment rates of participants, ensuring that funds received by students do not negatively impact their TAFDC eligibility.