The proposed bill establishes the "Veteran Employability Training and Career Advancement for Reentry Program" within the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. This program aims to provide individualized transitional and soft skills training to justice-involved veterans and their families, with the goals of improving economic well-being, reducing recidivism, preventing homelessness, and facilitating successful reintegration into society. The program will be administered by a selected community college, which will partner with the Employment Security Department and local WorkSource offices to deliver necessary services. Key components include hiring a full-time reentry and educational navigator to assist participants, developing individualized reentry plans, and providing support services to immediate family members.
Additionally, the bill outlines eligibility criteria for participants, which include being a justice-involved veteran and completing specific assessments. It also allocates funds for immediate family support, covering expenses such as rental assistance, food assistance, and work-related costs. The Department of Veterans Affairs will play a role in data collection and collaboration with the college board, while an interagency work group will assess the feasibility of expanding the program statewide. The bill mandates annual reporting on program outcomes and is set to expire on August 1, 2031.