CT SB00968

Establishes the Military to Machinists pilot program by October 1, 2019, operated by the southwest workforce development board to help veterans earn advanced manufacturing certificates and secure employment with eligible businesses.

Establishes the Veterans Platform to Employment pilot program by October 1, 2019, to provide training, skills assessments, career readiness workshops, and subsidized employment for veterans with long-term unemployment.

Requires the workforce development board to distribute educational materials to employers by February 1, 2020, on identifying and assisting veterans experiencing mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide risk, depression, and grief.

Directs the Labor Department to provide veterans with information about the Military to Machinists program when they express interest in advanced manufacturing and to refer veterans to workforce development board facilities with veterans units when closer than department facilities.

Requires annual reports through February 1, 2020, and thereafter on program effectiveness, including data on veterans served, employment placements, salaries, job retention rates, and funding assistance provided to both veterans and eligible businesses.