CT SB00077

Establishes an Unemployed Armed Forces Member Subsidized Training and Employment program within the Labor Department to provide grants to eligible Connecticut-based businesses for on-the-job training of unemployed military veterans.

Eligible new employees must have been unemployed, honorably discharged from active service in Operation Enduring Freedom or authorized military operations against Iraq after at least 90 days in a combat zone, with no prior employment at related businesses in the preceding 12 months.

Grant amounts decline over six months: 100% of wages up to $20/hour in month one, 75% in months two-three, 50% in months four-five, and 25% in month six; grants are cancelled if the employee leaves employment.

Authorizes the State Bond Commission to issue up to $10 million in bonds (with $5 million effective July 1, 2013) to fund the program through the Labor Department.

Requires the Labor Commissioner to report semi-annually to relevant legislative committees on program participation, number of employees hired, and jobs created or maintained.