Establishes program in DOLWD to address jobs lost due to automation.
The program is designed to provide training at no cost to employers while equipping at-risk workers with skills necessary for immediate employment. Participants in the program will also have access to various 'wrap around' services, including support for transportation, child care, mental health, and personal finance education. The overarching goal is to prevent unemployment and promote economic stability within the state by facilitating effective transitions for workers affected by technological advancements.
Senate Bill S1363 proposes the establishment of a New Jersey Automation Job Loss Prevention Program aimed at addressing job losses primarily caused by automation. The bill requires the Department of Labor and Workforce Development to oversee the program, which will utilize workforce development funds to create job training and career development programs. These initiatives are expected to connect employers with workers who have been displaced or are at risk of losing their jobs due to automation.
While the bill presents a proactive approach to mitigating the negative impacts of automation, there may be concerns about the effectiveness and reach of the proposed programs. Critics might argue that the reliance on employer participation for training programs poses potential challenges, particularly if businesses are hesitant to engage in the initiative. Additionally, the requirement for the department to evaluate the effectiveness of the program after five years suggests an ongoing scrutiny of its benefits versus costs, which may open avenues for debate among stakeholders regarding the allocation of workforce development funds.