Jim Hagedorn: “Workforce development is key to sustaining jobs and economic growth. Manufacturers, small businesses, trade unions, and…”

“Workforce development is key to sustaining jobs and economic growth. Manufacturers, small businesses, trade unions, and industry groups are concerned about the increasing skilled labor shortage. Unfortunately, current law limits the use of eligible savings accounts to help reduce the costs of obtaining advanced technical certifications. My legislation, the American Workforce Empowerment Act, would allow 529 savings accounts to be used for non-degree technical training certificate programs, tools, and any tests that are required to maintain certifications. As the American workforce rebounds, we will see increased need for skilled workers to meet rising manufacturing, shipping, and construction demand. These skilled labor positions are good-paying jobs that help provide economic stability for hardworking Americans and are essential to the expansion of our Nation's economy. ____________________”