The state House Finance Committee approved a resolution Wednesday urging the federal government to allow educational savings accounts to be used for workforce training expenses.
The resolution, introduced by Rep. Kate Klunk (R-Hanover), urges Congress to pass legislation allowing students in apprenticeship programs to use 529 accounts to purchase program-related tools and equipment.
“Pennsylvania’s 529 College Savings Program is a wonderful option to save for college,” Klunk said. “Sadly, students who pursue careers in the trades can’t use their own money on the tools needed to learn. For example, a student taking a welding course through an apprenticeship program can’t use money from a 529 account to purchase a welding mask,”
Klunk also teamed up with Reps. Aaron Bernstine (R-Beaver/Butler/Lawrence counties) and Jared Solomon (D-Philadelphia) to introduce House Bill 796, which would create a new grant program to support apprenticeships in Pennsylvania.
The legislation is based on the successful partnership between the Hanover Public School District and the South Western School District and the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce along with numerous Hanover-area businesses. That partnership created an apprenticeship pipeline. Businesses helped design curriculum and invested in equipment at the school districts. The students learn various trades and obtain recognized certifications.