Requests certain state agencies and private businesses in Louisiana to recognize the value that justice-involved persons can bring to the workforce and society and to act with intention to empower, train, and employ such individuals.
Impact
The resolution seeks to solidify and expand efforts aimed at providing job training and removing barriers to employment for the justice-involved population. By aligning programs offered by the Louisiana Workforce Commission and local educational institutions, the initiative aims to create pathways to employment that can help reduce recidivism and enhance public safety. It highlights the importance of collaboration among government entities, corrections services, and local businesses to foster an inclusive workforce.
Summary
SCR11, the Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 11, urges Louisiana state agencies and private businesses to acknowledge the potential contributions of justice-involved individuals within the workforce. The resolution reinforces ongoing criminal justice reforms and emphasizes the necessity of empowering and training these individuals to facilitate their successful reintegration into society. It recognizes the unique challenges faced by justice-involved persons in Louisiana, notably against the backdrop of an uncertain post-COVID-19 employment landscape.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR11 is generally supportive, reflecting a growing recognition of the value that formerly incarcerated individuals can bring to the workforce. Many legislators see it as a vital step towards decreasing recidivism rates, promoting community safety, and bolstering the state's economy. Nevertheless, there may be contention regarding the capacity and willingness of businesses to actively participate in hiring these individuals and the effectiveness of training programs. Some skeptics worry about the feasibility of such an initiative in an often challenging employment landscape.
Contention
While SCR11 does not impose mandatory obligations on businesses or state agencies, its effectiveness hinges on voluntary compliance and collaborative effort. Critics may question the adequacy of resources allocated for training programs and the tangible outcomes of reentry initiatives. The success of this resolution will depend on its implementation and the willingness of local entities to overcome biases against hiring justice-involved persons and to actively support their reintegration.
Requests certain state agencies and private businesses to recognize the value that justice-involved persons bring to the workforce and society, and to act with the intention to empower, train, and employ such individuals
Requests the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, the Louisiana Department of Health, and the Louisiana Department of Education to study the barriers that impede successful reintegration of offenders back into society
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission to study the feasibility of creating facilities that provide virtual workshops and training and remote work stations
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission to distribute information regarding the provisions of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act that provides paid sick time to employees who are unable to work due to the effects of COVID-19.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.