In an effort to make it easier for unemployed Californians to access unemployment insurance (UI) benefits while enrolled in training programs to upgrade job skills and increase employability, the California State Assembly yesterday passed AB 2058 by Assemblymember Marty Block (AD-78). This bill streamlines the process for participating in the state's retraining benefits program in order to allow unemployed people to receive UI benefits while enrolled in an approved training program on a full-time basis.
“Today’s unpredictable economic climate demands that we have a modernized system capable of providing unemployed Californians with the training they need to once again contribute to our economy,” said Assemblymember Block. “At a time when jobs are scarce and the unemployment rate is reaching 12.6%, this legislation breaks down barriers preventing laid-off workers from participating in training and skill development that makes them competitive for jobs as our economy recovers. This bill will give unemployed workers the ability to enroll in these programs and help bolster a skilled workforce – ready and able to join California’s changing economic landscape.”
Current law allows for the automatic approval of training programs funded through the Workforce Investment Act, the Employment Training Panel, the CalWORKs program and the Trade Adjustment Assistance Act.
AB 2058 maintains and modernizes this list to allow unemployed workers to also automatically enroll in programs listed on the Eligible Training Provider List without causing a break in UI benefits. These programs meet state standards and have been approved by local Workforce Investment Boards.
Despite the fact that attending community college or university programs would benefit unemployed Californians and improve their ability to gain future employment, current law prevents laid-off workers from retaining their UI benefits while enrolled in many of these programs. AB 2058 expands the range of acceptable programs to comply with federal government guidelines that advise states to allow workers to earn educational degrees that will make them more employable during times of high unemployment. Benefits to workers enrolled in these programs are fully paid by the federal government.
This bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Contact: Mike Naple, (916) 202-0003
