HB 1329 Summary

• Establishes a workforce inclusion and opportunity pilot program to provide coordinated training for incumbent workers seeking higher-paying positions and unemployed or underemployed individuals, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

• Creates a seven-member task force chaired by the director of the division of disability and rehabilitative services, with members representing workforce development, economic development, nonprofits, disability services providers, manufacturing, and business communities.

• Requires task force to implement the pilot program by October 1, 2018, select participating geographic regions and employers, and disburse grants for training, certifications, and employer hiring/training costs from the skills enhancement and rehabilitation services funds.

• Appropriates $1,750,000 annually on July 1 for 2018 and 2019 to a qualifying training institute for people with disabilities for curriculum development, operating expenses, and marketing.

• Requires task force to submit a results report to the governor and legislature by December 1, 2019, with recommendations for program expansion; pilot program expires January 1, 2020.