HF 5044 Summary

• Appropriates $350,000 in fiscal year 2024 and $350,000 in fiscal year 2025 from the workforce development fund to the Metro Youth Diversion Center (MYDC) for its Youth-Care Assessment and Readiness Education (Y-CARE) program.

• Grant funds must support workforce development opportunities for youth with a focus on underrepresented East African students through career exploration, mentorship, skills development, and employment readiness activities.

• MYDC must prioritize four specific workforce development activities: providing career path exploration opportunities, pairing youth with mentors, offering empowerment and skills enhancement programs, and equipping youth with resources to enter the workforce.

• MYDC must submit a report to the commissioner of employment and economic development by January 1, 2026 detailing how grant proceeds were utilized and outcomes achieved through the Y-CARE program.

• The bill becomes effective the day following final enactment.