Congressman Gibson cites improvements to federal workforce development programs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – July 15, 2014 – (RealEstateRama) — Congressman Chris Gibson (NY-19) announced the House of Representatives passed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, improving federal job training programs that serve Upstate New Yorkers.
The bipartisan bill, which has the support of labor unions, home builders, retailers, and the hospitality industry, was approved July 9 by a vote of 415-6. An amended version of the bill was recently adopted by the Senate 95-3.
“This legislation makes it easier for New York to provide the training programs we need to put people to work rebuilding our energy and transportation infrastructure, producing our food, and providing care for our loved ones,” said Congressman Gibson. “We cannot grow the Upstate economy and keep our young people closer to home without making strategic investments in career and vocational education.”
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, H.R. 803, reauthorizes the Workforce Investment Act and streamlines training services by eliminating 15 duplicative programs, reducing administrative costs for states, and improving transparency and accountability by creating new performance standards.
The legislation also calls on states to consult with local officials to identify where programming is needed, target assistance for youth who face barriers to employment and education, and strengthen Job Corps contract requirements.
Additionally, H.R. 803 reauthorizes the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to improve employment outcomes and job skills among adults and people with disabilities.
Supporters of the legislation include the following: NEA, AARP, Society for Human Resource Management, American Hotel and Lodging Association, Associated Builders and Contractors, and Associated General Contractors of America.
