ASSEMBLY LABOR COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 4617

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  DECEMBER 8, 2022

      The Assembly Labor Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 4617.

      This bill requires the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, in consultation with the Department of Health and healthcare stakeholders, to establish a program and standards to identify and recruit unemployed individuals to work in healthcare facilities.  The identification process shall include:

      (1) an evaluation of the practicality of training an individual for a specific position;

      (2) the proximity of relevant positions to the individual’s residence, and an individual’s transportation options to the position; and

      (3) what, if any, barriers exist preventing the individual from commencing work immediately for a specific position, even if the position is probationary until the individual completes relevant or required training.

      The bill appropriates $250,000 from the general fund for the purpose of funding training programs and providing resources for eligible individuals.