JOLIET–(ENEWSPF)–October 14, 2010. Job training legislation co-authored by Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson passed the House last week. The bill aims to help workers receive education and credentials valued by American manufacturers and industries, boosting their employability. The bill passed 412-10.
The legislation, known as the AMERICA Works Act (HR 4072), was co-authored by Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson (D-IL), along with four of her colleagues in conjunction with input from leaders in business, labor and education.
The bill will help modernize federal job training programs by directing federal funding to successful local workforce and education programs that work alongside local employers to ensure job skills being taught in the programs match the local needs. By reforming the Workforce Investment Act, the Perkins Vocation-Technical Education Act, and the Trade Adjustment Assistance program, the legislation will give applicants industry-recognized credentials and help employers more easily identify the best qualified job applicants.
“We need to focus on moving American manufacturing forward. Throughout my district, people want to see us making more things in America again,” said Halvorson.
“The manufacturing industry is key to economic growth, and this legislation will help get local workers prepared to meet employers’ needs for a skilled workforce. By working together with business, labor and education, we’re helping to make American manufacturing even more competitive,” said Halvorson.
Urging the Senate to pass this legislation, National Association for Manufacturers President John Engler said, “The NAM has long advocated this smart approach to education and training and we urge the Senate to take act quickly on this bill.”
The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration. It was originally sponsored by Rep. Walt Minnick (ID), Halvorson, Rep. Bobby Bright (AL), and Rep. Frank Kratovil (MD).
Source: halvorson.house.gov
