The Youth Links App Act of 2025 aims to address the employment challenges faced by youth in Washington, D.C. by directing the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME) to develop a smartphone application and website called DC Youth Links. This platform will connect young people aged 14 to 24 with flexible, paid job opportunities in the private sector. The DME is tasked with overseeing the app's development, vetting employers, and ensuring that job opportunities are accessible across all eight wards of the city. The app will feature a centralized platform for job listings, allow users to filter opportunities based on various criteria, and include a feedback tool for both youth and employers.
Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for employers participating in the program, including training on labor laws and workplace safety, as well as a vetting process to ensure compliance. The DME will also implement a public engagement campaign to promote participation among youth, particularly those experiencing economic hardship. Reporting requirements are established to track the app's usage and effectiveness, including data on youth accounts, employer participation, and job placements. The act will take effect following approval by the Mayor and a congressional review period.