Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce my first bill as a Member of Congress, the LEAP Act. This bipartisan piece of legislation aims to create new opportunities for American workers by supporting apprenticeships and pre- apprenticeship programs. These training programs are a proven way to address the job skills gap and to get folks ready for careers in growing industries. By providing tax credits to small businesses, this bill will both address the need for more qualified workers and cut educational costs, a win-win for employers and working people. I thank former Congressman Rodney Davis, who was the first to introduce this legislation back in 2013, and I thank Congressman Mike Carey for partnering with me to build on this proposal by eliminating age limits and emphasizing pre-apprenticeship eligibility. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join us in supporting career pathways and a chance for everyone to succeed in our changing economy. ____________________
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