Apprenticeships: income tax returns.
The bill's passage would significantly affect the interaction between the Franchise Tax Board and the Division of Apprenticeship Standards, establishing a systematic approach for sharing taxpayer information to improve access to apprenticeship programs. By doing so, AB 2769 aligns taxpayer engagement with educational and vocational opportunities, ultimately aiming to bolster workforce development in the state. It may also prompt local agencies to participate in outreach initiatives that enhance public awareness of available apprenticeship programs.
Assembly Bill 2769, introduced by Assembly Member Ortega, aims to enhance outreach efforts for apprenticeship programs in California by modifying provisions related to state income tax returns. Set to take effect for taxable years beginning January 1, 2025, the bill mandates the Franchise Tax Board to implement a checkbox on income tax returns allowing taxpayers to consent to share their information with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards. This information sharing is intended to facilitate individualized outreach regarding apprenticeship opportunities, thereby potentially increasing participation in these programs.
The sentiment around AB 2769 appears to be positive, as it seeks to increase participation in apprenticeship programs—an area often emphasized for its role in workforce development. Supporters argue that enhancing apprenticeship opportunities aligns with the state's goals of improving career pathways and providing essential skills to the labor force. However, concerns may arise surrounding the privacy of taxpayer information and the ethical implications of data sharing.
A notable point of contention surrounding AB 2769 is the provision that describes the unauthorized disclosure of taxpayer information as a misdemeanor. This element aims to safeguard taxpayer data but raises questions regarding the effectiveness and practicality of enforcing such protections. Additionally, the bill asserts that no reimbursement is required for local agencies, which may delineate financial responsibilities and further complicate the bill’s implementation at the local level.