By Bob Katzen

The House 25-128, rejected an amendment that would expand eligibility for a program, created in the bill, which allows employers to offer training programs to assist individuals in the Emergency Assistance Housing Program in developing the skills needed to enter the workforce.

Under the program, employers would be eligible for a tax credit of $2,500 for each qualified trainee who receives training. The amendment would allow low-income Massachusetts residents to participate in these training programs even if they are not in the Emergency Assistance Housing Program.

“The supplemental budget offers a pathway to entering the workforce by going through a job training program, but it is limited to those individuals who are already in the emergency shelter system,” said amendment sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “This amendment would open up these training programs by also giving low-income Massachusetts residents who are eager to work an opportunity to participate.”

Opponents said this funding is aimed at helping people in the emergency assistance program. They noted the state already has programs for low income residents and is developing even more of them.

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment allowing low income residents to be eligible. A “No” vote is against allowing it.)

Rep. Christine Barber No Rep. Mike Connolly No Rep. Paul Donato No Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven No