Political Quotes

“I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I rise in support of his substitute and in opposition to the so-called SKILLS Act. Mr. Chairman, there was an opportunity to do this in a bipartisan fashion. As we so often do, unfortunately, in this body, we choose to do it in a partisan fashion, which almost predictably will mean its defeat. This bill is a partisan-sponsored version which is opposed by most stakeholders, including the National Skills Coalition. It's a partisan bill because, unfortunately, Republicans refused Democrats' request to negotiate a bipartisan version. We need a bill like the Democratic alternative introduced by the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Tierney), who wrote a bill that enhances career pathways into training programs for advanced manufacturing and other industries. {time} 1110 Our alternative would work to enhance partnerships with industry, maintain a role for all stakeholders in workforce investment, and protect services for those facing significant barriers to finding work. This is the type of approach that House Democrats' Make It in America plan has endorsed. Unfortunately, the Republican bill, on the other hand, would eliminate and/or consolidate 35 programs into a single Workforce Investment Fund. That may sound good, but it lacks any priority of service for those facing the highest barriers to employment. These include low-income individuals and those with poor work histories.…”