New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S4012

Introduced
1/14/25  
Refer
1/14/25  
Report Pass
5/12/25  

Caption

Establishes "New Economy Opportunity Skills System Pilot Program" to strengthen alignment and collaboration between local workforce development boards, community colleges, and county vocational school districts; makes appropriation.

Impact

The legislation proposes a structured approach to integrate services offered by workforce boards and community colleges. It mandates collaborative branding efforts, enhanced outreach to the community, and coordinated funding strategies to maximize the impact of available resources for workforce development. Additionally, this initiative positions community colleges as the primary providers of postsecondary education, workforce training, and adult literacy programs, which is expected to facilitate more seamless transitions for individuals entering or re-entering the workforce.

Summary

Senate Bill 4012, known as the "New Economy Opportunity Skills System Act," aims to enhance the collaboration and strategic alignment between local workforce development boards and community colleges in New Jersey. The bill establishes the "New Economy Opportunity Skills System Pilot Program," which will operate in three local areas. The primary focus of this initiative is the development and implementation of vocational training programs that emphasize industry-recognized credentials, thereby improving the readiness of the workforce to meet the demands of employers in a competitive market.

Contention

While the bill is framed as a positive step towards employment readiness and economic growth, there may be concerns surrounding the implications for local control over workforce development initiatives. The requirement for local boards to align closely with community colleges could result in a one-size-fits-all approach that may not address specific local needs or priorities. Opponents may argue that this could diminish the flexibility local boards have to tailor programs to their unique demographic and economic contexts.

Notable_points

The bill calls for the State Employment and Training Commission to submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature, ensuring accountability and allowing for periodic evaluation of the program's effectiveness. Furthermore, it recognizes the need for legislative recommendations and regulatory changes to strengthen the integration of services across the state. The act is designed to be time-bound, taking effect immediately and expiring after three years unless extended, reflecting an adaptable approach to assess its long-term viability.

Companion Bills

NJ A5213

Same As Establishes "New Economy Opportunity Skills System Pilot Program" to strengthen alignment and collaboration between local workforce development boards, community colleges, and county vocational school districts; makes appropriation.

Previously Filed As

NJ A5213

Establishes "New Economy Opportunity Skills System Pilot Program" to strengthen alignment and collaboration between local workforce development boards, community colleges, and county vocational school districts; makes appropriation.

NJ AB1370

California Community Colleges Economic and Workforce Development Program.

NJ S3834

Expands Community College Opportunity Grant Program to include career and technical education programs at county colleges and county vocational schools.

NJ S698

Expands Community College Opportunity Grant Program to include career and technical education programs at county colleges and county vocational schools.

NJ A5475

Expands Community College Opportunity Grant Program to include career and technical education programs at county colleges and county vocational schools.

NJ A2885

Expands Community College Opportunity Grant Program to include career and technical education programs at county colleges and county vocational schools.

NJ H0484

An act relating to enhancing workforce and economic development opportunities

NJ HB1132

To amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to direct the Secretary of Labor to award grants to community colleges for high-quality workforce development programs.

NJ HB8947

To amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to direct the Secretary of Labor to award grants to community colleges for high-quality workforce development programs.

NJ SB178

Relating to vocational and technical education programs

Similar Bills

NJ A5213

Establishes "New Economy Opportunity Skills System Pilot Program" to strengthen alignment and collaboration between local workforce development boards, community colleges, and county vocational school districts; makes appropriation.

NJ A2014

"Manufacturing in Higher Education Act"; requires various State entities to promote manufacturing career pathways for students and provides assistance to manufacturing industry.

CA AB916

Income taxes: California work opportunity tax credit.

CA AB95

California Education Interagency Council.

CA AB2974

Workforce development: local workforce development board.

CA AB1015

Education finance: Opportunity Youth Reengagement Program.

CA SB638

California Education and Workforce Development Coordinating Entity: California Career Technical Education Incentive Grant Program.

NJ S526

Concerns NJ PLACE, allocates $300,000 for FY2020.