Arizona reroutes state job training money to plug state budget hole

[mgcardin]

Check this out, right from the program's Webpage at the Arizona Chamber of Commerce site:

ARIZONA JOB TRAINING PROGRAM:

The Arizona Job Training Program supports the design and delivery of training plans that meet unique industry standards and challenges. Under the “Net New Hire” portion of the grant program, businesses can apply for grants that return up to 75% of the costs of training net new employees in jobs that meet wage criteria. The “Incumbent Worker” portion of the grant program will allow for training that upgrades the skills of your existing employees. The Incumbent Program can reimburse employers up to a maximum of 50% of allowable training costs.

PROGRAM NOTICE:

Legislation was recently passed that authorized the transfer of $22,217,200 from the Job Training Fund to the general fund to help offset the State’s FY2009 budget shortfall. Pursuant to Arizona Administrative Code R20-1-205, the Department cannot award a grant to an employer that meets the eligibility criteria unless sufficient funds are available. Therefore, this Program is on hold until further notice. Program updates will be posted as they become available.

[theozarker]

Stupid and shortsighted, since these workers will become taxpayers.  Sadly, I don't think Arizona is the only state pulling this crap.

Linda

[jcs44]

That's America for you- even our state budgets are all about instant gratification!

[muletowntrooper]

Ask Matt his opinion.  Job training, for today's jobless, makes as much sense as going into debt to become an attorney right now.   What "jobs" are you gonna train them for?   Probably the smartest move they could make under the circumstances.  Now an ag grant for garden and canning skill training would go a long way toward helping the jobless....