HUGHES LEGISLATION SAYS “YES” TO JOBS FOR PA YOUTHS

          HARRISBURG, May 22– In an effort to provide more high quality jobs to Pennsylvania youth as a means to stem violent crime, state Senator Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia)unveiled his Youth Opportunities and Workforce Development Program legislation at a press conference today in Harrisburg.

          The legislation would provide over 30,000 teens and young adults ages 14 through 21, with summer and year-round employment and internships throughout the Commonwealth.

          “For Pennsylvania youth to be employed and earn a salary is extremely important,” Hughes said.  “Not only does it teach responsibility, but it prepares these individuals for their future careers.

          “Just as important, the legislation gives us a great weapon to use in our fight against violent crime—a job,” Hughes said. 

          The legislation (Senate Bill 555), known as the Youth Empowerment Services (YES) Act calls for creating a $100 million fund to expand the availability of high-quality jobs and provide work readiness, career preparation and employment support for youth ages 14 through 21.  These new jobs will be available in local workforce investment areas throughout Pennsylvania.

          “It is my hope that this legislation will provide a framework where work-related experiences can be used to support students in their classrooms and help them transition to postsecondary education or careers,” Hughes said.

          Hughes added that he is hopeful that this legislation provides a deterrent against the recent wave of gun violence in large cities. 

          “In 2006 there were 105 teens ages 14 through 21 that were killed due to gun violence in Philadelphia and the numbers just continue to grow,” Hughes said. 

          “It is my hope that this initiative will provide area teens a way to prepare for a career and provide a reason to stay off the streets,” Hughes said.

          The program includes the following provisions:

• Business leaders commit resources to pay salaries, provide mentoring and instruction on the job and work closely with schools and youth-serving organizations.

• State funds assume the costs of connecting students with employers, including activities designed to help youths serve productively on the job and other costs related to the ongoing support of the program.

• Local education agencies direct youth workforce developmental efforts.

          Hughes was joined at the event by Laura Shubilla, CEO and President of the Philadelphia Youth Network and Pam McCormick, Public Policy Consultant for the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.

          Hughes added that a majority of the positions will be in the service sector, giving these individuals an opportunity to learn about and serve their respective communities.