New state program seeks jobs for former inmates

Employers who hire former prison inmates, through a new program, are eligible for up to $2,400 in state tax credits per worker, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced this week.

 The Work for Success program, unveiled a year ago, partners with not-for-profit groups to provide job training for people recently released from prison. The workers are then sent to prospective employers for interviews and possibly employment offers.

 In addition to the tax breaks, employers also receive bonding, if necessary.

 The state is launching a campaign to encourage businesses to participate in the program. A pool of trained workers and support services have been assembled over the past year, according to a spokeswoman for the state Labor Department.

 She said an informational event on Long Island is planned for early summer.

 Cuomo said, “Every employed individual who stays out of jail saves taxpayers between $17,000 and $25,000 per person per year .?.?. The tax credits help [businesses’] bottom line and help boost competitiveness.”

 Labor Commissioner Peter Rivera noted that almost 8,000 of the more than 25,000 employable individuals released from prison in the state last year already have jobs.

 More information about the program can be found at workforsuccess.ny.gov or by calling 1-888-469-7365.