The proposed bill establishes a new section, 173.2563, within chapter 173 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, creating the "Youth Workforce Development Program" under the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. This program aims to provide at-risk youth, particularly those involved in the juvenile justice system or facing significant social and economic challenges, with opportunities to gain workforce skills and training. The program will collaborate with the Department of Social Services and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop job training, internships, and life skills education, with an initial cap of 500 participants in its first year. Additionally, the bill creates the "Youth Workforce Development Program Fund" to support the program's activities, including vocational training, educational programs, and mentorship opportunities. The fund will consist of various financial contributions and will not revert to the general revenue fund at the end of the biennium. The Department is also tasked with reporting on the program's effectiveness, including participant numbers and employment rates, and the program is set to sunset six years after its effective date unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (5777H.01): 173.2563