Labor & Employment (Workforce Development)

The DC Young Adult Corps Act of 2026 establishes a paid service program for District residents aged 17-24 who have recently earned a high school equivalency credential or meet alternative eligibility criteria set by the Department of Employment Services (DOES). It creates 9-12 month, full-time placements (30-40 hours weekly) with host organizations like schools, nonprofits, or government agencies, requiring participants to be paid at or above the District’s minimum wage with labor protections. Key provisions include structured mentorship, a one-time completion award for successful participants, program oversight by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education, and a non-lapsing fund for sustainability. The bill mandates annual public reporting and independent evaluations to track outcomes in workforce development and community service.

This bill modifies three existing laws to enhance safety and funding for District of Columbia youth workforce programs. It removes restrictions on using employment funds for food/beverages for program participants, expands the definition of "covered child services provider" to include host employer staff/volunteers working directly with youth, and authorizes background checks for these individuals. The changes specifically affect summer youth employment programs administered by the Department of Employment Services, requiring host employers to conduct background checks on staff with unsupervised youth contact. The bill is designated as an emergency measure, effective for 90 days.

The On-Site Services Act of 2025 establishes a program to fund qualifying housing providers (owners of complexes with at least 20 rental units where 30% of units are subsidized) to offer on-site services like health, legal aid, childcare, and job training directly to residents. It provides grants up to $2,000 per unit or $200,000 total per complex, requiring providers to demonstrate resident support, staff qualifications, and service outcomes. The program mandates annual reporting on service usage, spending, and resident benefits, with grants renewable for up to 24 months based on progress. Residents may voluntarily participate, and providers cannot use nonparticipation or service data against tenants.

This bill creates a program offering zero-interest forgivable loans to cover tuition and living expenses for District residents pursuing apprenticeships or credentials in high-growth industries like technology, healthcare, construction, and early childhood education. It directly affects D.C. high school graduates and other residents facing financial barriers to training, providing support for tuition, childcare, on-the-job training, and living costs. Participants must live and work in the District after completing their program to qualify for loan forgiveness. The program is funded by a permanent Pathways to Prosperity Fund established under the bill.