SB 968: Training Benefit Program Bill

No. of Jobs

N/A

Category

Prepare the state’s workforce

Proposal

This bill will make it easier for recently unemployed workers to retain their unemployment benefits while retraining for a new job.

Summary

This bill will simplify the current process by streamlining the application and approval requirements to receive job training benefits while expanding the type of training providers that unemployed works can utilize. By allowing unemployed workers to receive unemployment benefits at the same time as going to school for re-training, the bill provides a measure of security for those seeking to improve their employment situation. .

Background

Under current law, the California Training Benefits Program provides job training for unemployed workers while they receive unemployment insurance benefits. For example, if a worker in an automobile plant is laid off and goes back to community college to be trained in new automotive repair techniques, he or she could continue to receive unemployment insurance. This program provides unemployment benefits while retraining.

However, the current CTB program is difficult to navigate and the training options available to unemployed individuals are limited. The structure of the current program actually makes it difficult to receive new job training.

Currently, the Employment Development Department approves participation in the CTB program only if the applicant meets a number of conditions. The unemployed worker first goes through an overly bureaucratic application and approval process. Instead of discouraging these workers, the state should be encouraging those unemployed workers to pursue retraining. The end result benefits labor, employers, and the state as a whole to remain competitive.

Read the Bill