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Bill

HB 194

Incarcerated Job Training Act

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ric Metzgar

Maryland establishes job training programs for incarcerated individuals to improve employment outcomes and reduce recidivism upon release.

Hearing 2/05 at 2:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 194

Legislative bill overview

HB 194 establishes a job training and workforce development program for incarcerated individuals in Maryland, designed to provide skill-building opportunities and improve employment prospects upon release. The bill aims to reduce recidivism by connecting formerly incarcerated people with vocational training and potential employment pathways.

Why is this important

Incarcerated individuals face significant barriers to employment after release, which increases recidivism rates and perpetuates cycles of poverty and incarceration. Programs that provide job training while incarcerated can improve public safety outcomes, reduce taxpayer costs from re-incarceration, and strengthen workforce participation in Maryland's labor market.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding allocation: Determining who pays for the program—state corrections budget, workforce development funds, or private partnerships—and whether resources should go to incarcerated populations versus other priorities
  • Industry participation and job placement: Questions about whether Maryland employers will hire formerly incarcerated workers and whether training focuses on realistic, available job opportunities
  • Equity in access: Concerns about which facilities, offense types, and incarcerated individuals qualify for programs, and whether the program adequately serves women and other underrepresented populations in the criminal justice system

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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