The bill proposes the establishment of a "workplace readiness week" to be observed annually in all public high schools, including charter schools, during a week in April. The purpose of this week is to provide students with information about their rights as workers. The bill outlines specific topics to be highlighted, such as local, state, and federal labor laws, worker safety, workers' compensation, unemployment insurance, paid leave, the right to unionize, and prohibitions against employer retaliation. It also emphasizes the labor movement's historical role in securing these rights and introduces state-approved apprenticeship programs as alternative career paths.
The bill further specifies that for 11th and 12th graders, the observances should be integrated into the regular school program and may include special events after school hours. Starting August 1, 2025, minors seeking work permits must be issued a document explaining basic labor rights, with topics covered in the document mirroring those discussed during workplace readiness week. The Department of Labor and Training is encouraged to produce a template for this document, which should be clear, in plain language, and available in English and other languages. Superintendents are required to notify schools about the week and provide instructional materials at least one month in advance. The act will take effect upon passage.