NJ Assembly takes up job-training bill again

TRENTON — A state Assembly panel is set to reconsider a job training bill that Gov. Chris Christie previously vetoed. The measure before the Labor Committee establishes a program for residents to receive job training from prospective employers while still collecting unemployment benefits. Sponsored by Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver, it's modeled on a similar program in Georgia. It would cost taxpayers $3 million. The bill allows people to work up to 24 hours a week _ for six weeks _ for an employer who will soon be hiring for the position. It also provides up to $100 per week to defray training-related costs, including transportation and child care. Christie simultaneously vetoed 14 bills the Democratic Legislature sent him in February, including this one, saying the combined $600 million cost was unaffordable.