NY S07429

Commissioner of labor, in consultation with commissioners of temporary and disability assistance, education, and the New York state office for new Americans, shall conduct a comprehensive study on immigrant and refugee participation in adult education and the workforce.

Study shall identify barriers to workforce entry including licensing, language access, and transportation; assess participation in adult education and training programs; and compare current employment to pre-resettlement employment including credentials and degrees.

Study shall identify top occupations sought by refugees and immigrants, barriers to using foreign work experience and education, and other relevant issues deemed necessary by commissioners.

Commissioners must seek input from governmental and non-governmental stakeholders, including refugees and immigrants, when conducting the study and developing recommendations.

Report with findings and specific recommendations for minimizing barriers and maximizing workforce access must be submitted to the governor, temporary president of the senate, and speaker of the assembly within one year of the effective date.