Bill > S2059

This bill, titled "Chang-Diaz further amendment (Representative Board Membership)," proposes changes to existing laws concerning workforce development, primarily by establishing a State Workforce Development Board and modifying the composition and responsibilities of an education and training collaborative. The bill amends several sections of Massachusetts General Laws, consistently replacing the word "investment" with "development" in contexts related to workforce initiatives, signifying a shift in focus from financial investment to broader developmental strategies. The core of the bill is the creation of a State Workforce Development Board, which will operate within, but not be subject to the jurisdiction of, the department. This board will have a diverse membership, including state officials, elected officials, representatives from business and industry (including small businesses), labor organizations, joint labor-management apprenticeship programs, and community-based organizations that serve individuals facing employment barriers or youth. Additionally, the board will include one member from the Senate and one from the House of Representatives. The bill also specifies that appointments should reflect the diversity of the commonwealth's population, including women, people of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities. The board will be chaired by a member representing business and industry and will be responsible for assessing and recommending improvements to the public workforce development system, promoting proportionate workforce participation of underrepresented groups, and meeting regional workforce needs, all in accordance with the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014. Furthermore, the bill revises the structure and powers of an education and training collaborative associated with the Taunton Development Corporation, detailing its board of directors' composition, which includes representatives from universities, colleges, labor organizations, and business groups, and clarifying its ability to enter into contracts and manage property.