CA SB964

Requires the High-Speed Rail Authority to contract with the Employment Development Department to develop a labor market assessment identifying workforce education and skills needed for construction, operation, and maintenance of California's high-speed train system.

Mandates the Employment Development Department consult with the Mineta Transportation Institute at California State University, San Jose and collaborate with other workforce assessment efforts in developing the assessment.

Requires the Authority and Employment Development Department to establish an advisory committee including representatives from higher education institutions, the Workforce Investment Board, State Department of Education, labor organizations, and the Employment Training Panel to advise on skilled labor availability and workforce training options.

Assessment must be submitted to the Legislature by January 1, 2012 and incorporated into the Authority's biennial revised business plan.

Appropriates $500,000 from the High-Speed Passenger Train Bond Fund to the Authority for these workforce development purposes.