MN SF1940

Creates Bridge to Work Minnesota, a pilot on-the-job training incentive program administered by the Commissioner of Employment and Economic Development for unemployed individuals eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.

Limits program participation to 5,000 applicants per year selected on a first-come, first-served basis, with administrative costs paid from existing general fund appropriations.

Allows eligible individuals to receive up to 25 hours per week of on-the-job training for up to eight weeks at participating employers while continuing to receive full unemployment benefits.

Requires participating employers to pay eligible individuals an earnings stipend equal to at least the applicable minimum wage, provide bona fide training for positions paying at least 175 percent of the federal poverty guideline for a family of four, and commit to hiring the individual for at least 90 days after training ends.

Stipend earnings do not reduce unemployment benefits received, contrary to standard unemployment law provisions.