The bill aims to enhance education and workforce development opportunities for current and former inmates in Florida. It amends existing statutes to allow the Department of Transportation to allocate funds for a broader range of workforce development programs, not limited to construction, and to provide grants to private educational providers for certification and training. Additionally, it mandates that training opportunities for inmates include programs for obtaining commercial driver licenses, specifically targeting nonviolent inmates and those nearing the end of their sentences. The bill also establishes a reimbursement program for employers who hire former inmates, covering a portion of their workers' compensation and auto liability premiums.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Correctional Education Program to submit annual reports detailing vocational training outcomes for inmates and authorizes the development of a vocational curriculum focused on commercial vehicle operation. It includes provisions for inmates to drive state-owned vehicles under certain conditions, particularly if they are part of a career and technical education program. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to improve the employability of inmates, thereby supporting their reintegration into society.

Statutes affected:
H 325 Filed: 334.044, 334.62, 945.091, 945.0913