State Labor Commissioner Peter M. Rivera today announced that the “Work For Success” tour will promote incentives for hiring formerly incarcerated individuals at the Capital Region Regional Economic Development Council meeting. 

Department of Labor Special Counsel Rachel Gold presented the details of the program to the Capital Region Regional Economic Development Council. The Statewide tour will make additional stops in Albany, Syracuse, Rochester and Buffalo.

Businesses who hire through the program are eligible for up to $2,400 in tax credits for each formerly incarcerated individual they hire. In addition, businesses are sent only trained, pre-qualified individuals to consider for hire.

“Every employed individual who stays out of jail saves taxpayers between $17,000 and $25,000 per person per year,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “Furthermore, businesses can benefit a great deal from hiring the formerly incarcerated. The tax credits help their bottom line and help boost competitiveness.”

“This program will save businesses money and give individuals a chance to succeed in work and grow New York State’s economy,” said ESD President, CEO & Commissioner Kenneth Adams. “We look forward to working with businesses across the State to let them know about the many benefits this program has to offer.”

In addition to providing tax credits and any bonding an employer may require, Work For Success saves businesses the cost of human resources services and job skills training by referring only the most qualified and appropriately trained applicants for any open jobs at no cost to business owners.

“Our non-profit partners train men and women who have paid their debt to society. They are highly motivated to move on with their lives and become productive members of society,” said Department of Labor Commissioner Peter M. Rivera. “We have thousands of individuals ready to roll up their sleeves who only ask for a second chance. I encourage all employers in New York to learn more about this program and the savings it has to offer.”

For more information about Work For Success, call 1-888-469-7365 or visit www.workforsuccess.ny.gov.