Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Linda Sánchez (CA-38) introduced the bipartisan Apprenticeship and Jobs Training Act to strengthen and enhance training opportunities for American workers through participation in registered apprenticeships. Apprenticeship programs have been an integral part of America’s workforce development, allowing workers to increase their skills while also earning a paycheck.
“Apprenticeship programs grow our economy by fostering training programs that will prepare workers for in-demand careers,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “By closing the skills gap, this bipartisan program will encourage more good-paying jobs for working families, while addressing our nation’s current shortage of trained workers. I am proud to work with Congresswoman Sanchez on this bipartisan legislation to enhance America’s workforce and bring robust job growth to Bucks and Montgomery Counties.”
“The potential for workers to succeed and provide for their families is limitless if they are given the right tools,” said Representative Sánchez. “The Apprenticeship and Jobs Training Act would ensure that more hard-working Americans are able to learn the skills necessary to compete for good paying jobs in today’s most in-demand industries. Expanding apprenticeship programs will help our middle class thrive by closing our skills gap and raising household wages.”
A skilled workforce is a critical component to a continued productive economy, but in recent decades employers have been experiencing a shortage of properly trained, available workers. Apprenticeship programs are an integral part of the quality education that leads to good paying American jobs.
Apprenticeship programs are a proven tool for workers to learn advanced skills while also earning a paycheck. The bill would create a $5,000 tax credit based upon wages paid by companies who hire individuals enrolled in a federal or state registered apprenticeship program. For employers participating in a multi-employer apprenticeship program, the credit rate would be $3 per hour. A worker must be employed for 7 months before the credit can be claimed and continues to be available as the apprentice works through the program for a maximum of three years. The bill also allows veterans to apply their previous skills and experience towards education hours so they can be put to use more quickly.