Rep. Vargas Votes to Invest in Underfunded Workforce Development Programs
Rep. Vargas Votes to Invest in Underfunded Workforce Development Programs
These investments will fill job openings with qualified workers, address supply chain issues, and lower costs for working families
WASHINGTON, D.C (May 17, 2022) — Today, Congressmember Vargas voted to pass the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022, which would invest in our nation’s workforce development programs and fill job openings with qualified workers.
“In one year under President Biden’s leadership, Americans have been getting back to work in record numbers,” said Rep. Vargas. “However, we still need to create more pathways to employment as our economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. This legislation would take an important step forward in securing critical investments to empower workers to fill competitive job positions, which in turn will help reduce supply chain shortages and lower costs for American families. I proudly voted for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to fill these gaps and ensure that qualified and skilled Americans have opportunities to join our workforce.”
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is the backbone of our nation’s workforce development system. The law provides training and career services that help working people across the nation get the skills they need to help employers secure a qualified workforce. WIOA includes funding for job training for adults, dislocated workers, and young people, as well as supportive services to help participants complete training and join the workforce.
Federal investments in workforce development has markedly fallen over time. As a result, essential workforce development services are unavailable to the people who need them most. Strengthening WIOA programs is a key step to help Americans get back to work and support businesses. As our country recovers from the pandemic, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 will provide more workers with pathways to better-paying jobs, lower costs, and strengthen our post-pandemic economic recovery.
A section-by-section breakdown of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act can be found here.
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Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire U.S.-Mexico border. Vargas was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012 and is currently serving his fifth term in Congress. He serves on the House Financial Services Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.