Closing the Skills Gap is Best for America’s Workforce

Congressman Albio Sires (NJ-08)

Over the past year, millions of people have lost their jobs as the economic consequences of the pandemic continue to be felt. Small businesses are struggling, and individuals are facing long periods of unemployment. Our national response will have to be multifaceted and it is important that we help equip workers with the skills that match the needs in their community. I believe that the Better Education and Skills Training (BEST) for America’s Workforce Act, which I will be reintroducing in the 117^thCongress, can play a key role in achieving this goal.

Our legislation would create a competitive, $1 billion tax-credit program to encourage job training partnerships between community colleges and local businesses in order to match those who are unemployed with small businesses that need qualified workers. The bill would also provide local businesses that hire long-term unemployed workers up to $4,000 in tax credits for the tuition costs at a community college to train each worker hired to fill a job that requires a specific certificate or other training credential.

By focusing on long-term unemployed workers, small businesses, and community colleges, the BEST for America’s Workforce Act, ensures that those who have been hit the hardest by the pandemic have an opportunity to learn and use new skills in their community. By providing workers with in-demand certifications and specializations, we can help boost our local and national economies.

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