Workforce Policy Advocacy

The BNP submitted a memo in support of state legislation that would expand access to childcare assistance. The bill would reduce hour-based restrictions to accommodate parents working on rotating schedules and also allow parents to receive benefits while pursuing educational or job training opportunities. This bill passed the Senate but did not come to a vote in the Assembly. The BNP will continue to advocate for this bill when the 2022 session commences.

The BNP supported  state legislation that would minimize the effects of the benefits cliff that prevents workers from growth. The bill would continue providing social service benefits for six months to individuals who return to the workforce, ensuring that their decision to work does not worsen their net financial position.

The BNP submitted a memo in support of state legislation that would expand employment access for parolees. Currently, parolees with a curfew are precluded jobs that require evening hours. This bill would allow parolees to be out after curfew for bona fide work, expanding the types and amounts of jobs available to those on parole.

The BNP sent a memo in support of the Endless Frontier Act, also known as the US Innovation and Competition Act. The bill would create regional technology hubs and invest in research, providing educational and upskilling opportunities.

The BNP sent a letter to our Congressional delegation advocating for an increase in the H-1B visa cap. The BNP has advocated for a robust refugee resettlement program, to which the Biden administration has recommitted. We have communicated our support for the administration’s commitment with the White House and our Congressional delegation.

As the American Rescue Plan was being debated, the BNP urged federal lawmakers to include additional resources for childcare. The ARP included $15 billion in Child Care and Development Block Grant funding, $24 billion for Child Care Stabilization grants and a $1,000 increase in the Child Tax Credit.