Rep. Smith Statement on House Passage of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022

Statement

Today Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7309, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022, which would reauthorize and strengthen our nation's workforce development programs.

"I have long been a strong supporter of education and workforce training programs in Washington's Ninth District and across the country because I know how important they are for expanding access to quality, high-paying jobs. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act would make long-overdue investments in our nation's workforce training programs, helping to advance equal economic opportunity for every person in America," said Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.). "Workforce training programs grow our skilled workforce pipeline and build a stronger economy. As such, it is vital that we make workforce training programs as accessible as possible by reducing their financial barriers. By focusing on providing supportive services to individuals, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act will increase access to these programs for underserved communities and make them more equitable for all individuals. I am thrilled that my amendment, which would help ensure that meals and other food assistance is provided to youth program participants, was included in the bill. I am proud of the House's action today to move this bill forward and I look forward to working with the Senate to get this bill on the President's desk."

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