[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 68 (Tuesday, April 20, 2021)]
[House]
[Pages H1963-H1964]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

  (Mr. HAGEDORN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. HAGEDORN. Mr. Speaker, workforce development is key to sustaining

[[Page H1964]]

jobs and economic growth. Manufacturers, small businesses, trade 
unions, and industry groups are concerned about the increasing skilled 
labor shortage. Unfortunately, current law limits the use of eligible 
savings accounts to help reduce the costs of obtaining advanced 
technical certifications.
  My legislation, the American Workforce Empowerment Act, would allow 
529 savings accounts to be used for non-degree technical training 
certificate programs, tools, and any tests that are required to 
maintain certifications.
  As the American workforce rebounds, we will see increased need for 
skilled workers to meet rising manufacturing, shipping, and 
construction demand. These skilled labor positions are good-paying jobs 
that help provide economic stability for hardworking Americans and are 
essential to the expansion of our Nation's economy.

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