A Louisiana House committee introduced a bill Wednesday that would expand eligibility for financial assistance programs for high-demand workforce education programs.
The House Education Committee approved it unanimously. House Bill 728 Rep. Paula Davis, R-Baton Rouge. This allows people convicted of violent crimes to access the MJ Foster Promise Program, a financial aid program that allows students to pursue associate degrees and short-term certificates in in-demand careers. Become.
The bill also lowers the age for initial qualification from 21 to 17.
Davis' bill has broad support from a variety of groups, including the influential Louisiana Business Association, which advocates for corporate interests, and the Louisiana Parole Project, a nonprofit that supports formerly incarcerated individuals.
Andrew Hundley, executive director of the Louisiana Parole Project, said, “We invest in the education of individuals as opposed to the significant costs that communities incur when people enter the justice system without skills or opportunities.'' “The small amount you spend will generate positive profits.”statement against illuminator.
Rep. Barbara Freiberg (R-Baton Rouge) noted after last month's election that expanding access to educational opportunities for formerly incarcerated people is especially important. Special session on crimeexpanded criminal penalties and lowered the age at which people are considered adults. criminal justice system.
“There's no question that jobs reduce crime,” Hundley said. “Providing opportunities for men and women looking to turn their lives around to gain skills through career and technical education is a win-win.”
The MJ Foster Promise Program, named after former Gov. Mike Foster, provides funding that can be used at LSU Eunice, Louisiana Southern University Shreveport Community and Technical College campuses, and a small number of private institutions across the state. I am. The program currently covers education in the fields of information technology, manufacturing, construction, transportation, and healthcare.
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