Maryland Labor and Employment Section 11-502

      (a)      It is State policy to coordinate all the resources available from federal, State and local governments, business, labor, and community based organizations to foster and promote a balanced, equitable, and cost-effective employment and training system. To effectuate this policy there shall be consultation between the Governor and the General Assembly in implementing the federal Workforce Investment Act and this subtitle.

      (b)      It is the State's goal to assist its citizens in obtaining gainful employment and in reducing dependence on public assistance and unemployment insurance programs by:

            (1)      preparing unskilled youth and adults who are economically disadvantaged for entry into the work force;

            (2)      retraining those who have lost jobs or who must upgrade or replace their work skills or both; and

            (3)      providing training and related services to increase the employability of those who encounter barriers to employment.

      (c)      It is also the State's goal to develop a well trained productive work force which meets the needs of a changing economy by:

            (1)      developing and ensuring maximum utilization of timely statewide labor market information;

            (2)      linking employment and training services with economic development efforts;

            (3)      providing enhanced employment and training capabilities specially designed to meet the needs of business and industry, including industries that utilize advanced technology applications; and

            (4)      encouraging and initiating innovative employment and training strategies.