1. (a) It is State policy to coordinate all the resources available from federal, State and local governments, business, labor, and community based organizations to foster and promote a balanced, equitable, and cost-effective employment and training system. To effectuate this policy there shall be consultation between the Governor and the General Assembly in implementing the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act¹ and this subtitle.

2. (b) It is the State's goal to assist its citizens in obtaining gainful employment and in reducing dependence on public assistance and unemployment insurance programs by:

   1. (1) preparing unskilled youth and adults who are economically disadvantaged for entry into the work force;
   2. (2) retraining those who have lost jobs or who must upgrade or replace their work skills or both; and
   3. (3) providing training and related services, including supportive services for low-income individuals, to increase the employability of those who encounter barriers to employment.

3. (c) It is also the State's goal to develop a well trained productive work force which meets the needs of a changing economy by:

   1. (1) developing and ensuring maximum utilization of timely statewide labor market information;
   2. (2) linking employment and training services with economic development efforts;
   3. (3) providing enhanced employment and training capabilities specially designed to meet the needs of business and industry, including industries that utilize advanced technology applications; and
   4. (4) encouraging and initiating innovative employment and training strategies.

Added as Art. 89, § 18, by Acts 1983, c. 268. Amended by Acts 1991, c. 8, § 7. Transferred to Labor and Employment § 11-502 and amended by Acts 1995, c. 120, §§ 3, 5 eff. July 1, 1995. Amended by Acts 2001, c. 315, § 1, eff. July 1, 2002; Acts 2007, c. 332, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2007; Acts 2016, c. 344, § 1, eff. July 1, 2016.

Formerly Art. 89, § 18.

Pub.L. 113-128, July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1425.