Resolution to improve workforce training advanced by Senate committee

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The Pennsylvania Senate Intergovernmental Operations Committee unanimously approved a resolution Monday that calls for an investigation into the effectiveness of workforce development programs in the Commonwealth.

Senate Resolution 169, introduced by state Sen. Jarrett Coleman (R-16), specifically directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee (LBFC) to review state workforce development programs and make suggestions to improve the delivery of services for both workers and employers.

“We want to make sure workers have access to programs and services that prepare them for the jobs available in their communities,” said Coleman, who chairs the committee. “There is a disconnect between the skills our workers are receiving and the skills employers want in their employees. We have job openings in Pennsylvania and unemployed workers, so we need to make sure those workers receive proper training to fill the available jobs.”

LBFC is a bipartisan legislative agency serving the Pennsylvania House and Senate. It is composed of 12 members of the General Assembly, including Coleman.

Resolution 169 gives LBFC up to one year to produce its report. It now heads to the full Senate for consideration.