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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 22, 2023 07:51 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jason Dawkins and Rep. Nick Pisciottano |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Creating a Bridge to Opportunity for Pennsylvania Workers |
| Union apprenticeships are a cost-effective way for young workers without an advanced degree to pursue fulfilling careers that meet regional industry needs. Unfortunately, the initial training period at the start of apprenticeships can deter economically disadvantaged individuals from entering a program. This is why I plan to introduce legislation to establish the Bridge to Opportunity Grant Program that will help offset the initial costs associated with apprenticeship training including transportation, tools and equipment, and other "start up" costs for individuals seeking job training. Apprenticeships have long been a proven strategy for businesses to develop a pipeline of talented workers that boost productivity, maintain our state’s infrastructure, and earn family-sustaining wages. But at only 0.3% of the Pennsylvania labor force, active apprenticeships are underutilized and will only continue to decline due to an aging workforce and high retirement rates. By offering assistance to offset costs at the start of a training program, we can enable more of our young job seekers to pursue an incredibly rewarding apprenticeship in the construction trades which will benefit the Commonwealth's economy overall. Please join us in removing the financial barriers to union apprenticeship programs and building up the highly skilled workforce needed for Pennsylvania businesses, taxpayers, and communities to prosper. Thank you for your consideration. Previous co-sponsors of this legislation: KENYATTA, McNEILL, BURGOS, KINSEY, MADDEN, LONGIETTI, SCHLOSSBERG, DELLOSO, GUENST, SANCHEZ, HILL-EVANS, HOHENSTEIN, KIM, PARKER, DEASY, CIRESI and D. WILLIAMS |