High Country Times

Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) and Ranking Member Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (D-VA) have expressed approval for the inclusion of the bipartisan A Stronger Workforce for America Act in the House's continuing resolution.

Chairwoman Virginia Foxx stated, "Meeting the demands of the 21st century economy requires a targeted approach that sufficiently equips the hardworking men and women – who are the backbone of America’s workforce – with the tools and education they need to keep pace. By including the bipartisan A Stronger Workforce for America Act in the House’s continuing resolution, transformative change that will leave an indelible impact upon generations of Americans to come is secured."

Ranking Member Robert C. "Bobby" Scott added, "Americans need a workforce development system that works for them and their families. I am pleased that the House Continuing Resolution (CR) includes bipartisan, bicameral legislation entitled A Stronger Workforce for America Act. This critical bill strengthens our workforce system and benefits job seekers and employers. A Stronger Workforce for America Act also ensures workers will benefit from innovative federal workforce development programs and be able to access good-paying jobs. It is imperative that Congress pass the CR so ‘A Stronger Workforce for America’ can become law."

The act, which passed in April with a vote of 378 to 26, aims to enhance American workers' skills by dedicating funds toward upskilling through individual training accounts (ITAs), on-the-job learning, and support systems. It also prioritizes employer-led initiatives designed to equip workers with necessary skill sets.

Furthermore, it seeks greater efficiency within WIOA programs by streamlining training provider lists and strengthening accountability systems to ensure positive labor market outcomes.

Additionally, it emphasizes work-based learning opportunities, supports reentry employment programs for individuals released from incarceration, strengthens community college education aligned with job demand, and encourages innovation through pilot authorities allowing states flexibility in their workforce systems.