Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services - Incarcerated Individual Apprenticeship Program

HB 289 creates a paid apprenticeship program within Maryland's Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, directly affecting incarcerated individuals in state facilities. The bill requires the department to develop apprenticeships in skilled trades with participating employers (state agencies, local governments, or private entities), prioritizing marketable job skills and paying at least the state minimum wage. Employers set wages but must pay a minimum rate, with funds partially credited to the incarcerated individual's account or distributed to dependents if needed. Upon successful completion, the department provides a certificate within 30 days of release, aiming to support post-incarceration employment.