California Assembly Bill AB628

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/21
• Refer: 2/25/21
• Report Pass: 3/24/21
• Refer: 3/25/21
• Report Pass: 4/8/21
• Refer: 4/8/21
• Report Pass: 4/29/21
• Refer: 5/4/21
• Refer: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 5/27/21
• Refer: 5/28/21
• Refer: 6/9/21
• Report Pass: 6/16/21
• Refer: 6/16/21
• Report Pass: 6/29/21
• Refer: 6/30/21
• Refer: 7/15/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 9/9/21
• Chaptered: 9/27/21
• Passed: 9/27/21

Caption

Breaking Barriers to Employment Initiative.

Impact

The bill underscores a significant shift in state policy towards a more inclusive labor market by fostering connections between community-based organizations and the California workforce development system. By creating tailored educational and training pathways for underserved populations, AB 628 seeks to remove obstacles that have historically hindered access to quality employment. This aligns with California's broader goals of equity in employment and addressing socioeconomic disparities, potentially resulting in long-lasting improvements in community economic conditions.

Summary

Assembly Bill 628, known as the Breaking Barriers to Employment Initiative, aims to amend specific sections of the Unemployment Insurance Code to enhance California's workforce development system. The bill focuses on addressing employment barriers faced by individuals from historically marginalized communities, emphasizing innovative strategies and proven practices that promote racial and economic justice in the labor market. This initiative is intended to create opportunities for these individuals through expanded access to education and training programs that align with regional labor market needs.

Sentiment

Support for AB 628 is primarily drawn from advocates for social justice and equity who view the bill as a necessary tool for dismantling systemic barriers that affect marginalized communities. Concerns may arise from some stakeholders regarding the practical implementation of the initiative and the distribution of grant funding to ensure that resources reach the intended populations effectively. Overall, the sentiment surrounding AB 628 suggests a commitment to creating a more equitable workforce.

Contention

While the focus on providing targeted support for various groups, such as women in nontraditional fields and the long-term unemployed, is widely supported, there may be contention around how effectively the California Workforce Development Board will manage and monitor the distribution of grants. The success of the program in achieving its stated objectives will depend on its ability to integrate these individuals into quality jobs and sustain their success in the labor market, raising questions regarding accountability and evaluation mechanisms as stipulated in the bill.