NEW: Back to Work RI Program Passes Senate
Friday, May 25, 2012
Legislation to allow job-seekers to collect unemployment while participating in job training at companies looking to hire has won the endorsement of the Rhode Island Senate.
Sponsored by Sen. Erin P. Lynch, the workforce development legislation, (2012-S2377aa), creates what is known as the Back to Work Rhode Island Program. It is a key component of the Senate’s 2012 package of bills to “Make it easy to do Business in Rhode Island.”
The bill establishes the “Back to Work Rhode Island” program within the Department of Labor and Training. Modeled after a popular program in Georgia called Georgia Works, the initiative enables individuals receiving unemployment benefits to volunteer to be matched with businesses who are seeking employees. The businesses would agree to provide up to six weeks of quality training through “trial” employment at no cost to the employer. Workers would continue to receive their unemployment benefits as employers assess and train the job candidates, at no cost and no risk. After six weeks, the employer can decide whether to hire the employee.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“This legislation provides valuable on-the-job training for unemployed workers who need new skills and a chance to prove themselves,” said Sen. Lynch (D – Dist. 31, Warwick). “Job-seekers get a chance to assess the company, gain valuable skills, fill in gaps of inactivity in their work history, and demonstrate what they can do for prospective employers. Ideally, they are a good match and they find long-term employment. In any event, they gain valuable skills training which will help them in their job search.”
Sen. Lynch noted that the program costs nothing, since it trains individuals who are already collecting unemployment. Meanwhile, it encourages employers to invest in job training for these potential new workers.
“This bill is good for both job seekers and employers. In this difficult economy, it encourages employers to provide training and helps job-seekers gain the skills necessary for success. The legislation opens up opportunities for both the unemployed and the businesses of Rhode Island,” said Sen. Lynch.
The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Rhoda E. Perry (D – Dist. 3, Providence), John J. Tassoni, Jr. (D – Dist. 22, Smithfield, North Smithfield), Joshua Miller (D – Dist. 28, Cranston, Warwick) and Hanna M. Gallo (D – Dist. 27, Cranston). It will now be sent to the House of Representatives.
