Relating to: study of guaranteed employment grant program and making an appropriation. (FE)

This bill directs the Department of Workforce Development to study the feasibility of creating a grant program that funds guaranteed jobs in the care economy, such as healthcare, education, and social services. The proposed program would provide grants to public and nonprofit entities to offer at least 100 days of work at $20 per hour, with priority given to specific groups including youth, people with disabilities, low-income households, long-term unemployed individuals, and formerly incarcerated people. The study must analyze the number of positions needed, associated costs, training strategies, and pathways to full-time employment, with results to be reported to state officials within 18 months. To support this research, the bill appropriates an additional $250,000 for the fiscal year 2023-24.