Pocan Statement on Passage of H.R. 803, “The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act”

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02), a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, today issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 803, The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA):

"I'm proud to support the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014," said Rep. Pocan. "This bipartisan legislation will strengthen our workforce system and give workers and job seekers access to employment, education, training, and support services to help them secure good, well-paying jobs and advance their careers."

WIOA streamlines the nation's workforce development system by creating smaller, nimbler, and more strategic state and local workforce development boards. It provides local boards the ability to tailor services to best meet the needs of their region and gives states greater flexibility to address their unique needs.

"I have made job-creating policies a number one priority and this bill will help to put Wisconsinites back to work and ensure long-term, sustainable growth that will drive our economy for years to come," Rep. Pocan said. "This bill includes critical funding for workplace and job training programs that prepare our workers for the jobs of today and the future."

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act emphasizes access to "real-world" job training opportunities through on-the-job, incumbent worker, and other customized programs. It also provides improved outreach to out-of-school youths and improves training programs for individuals with disabilities.

The bill passed the Senate on a 95-3 vote and passed the House today with broad bipartisan support by margin of 415-6.

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