[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 40 (Monday, March 3, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E179]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      INTRODUCTION OF THE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND JOBS PARITY ACT

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                       HON. KIMBERLYN KING-HINDS

                      of northern mariana islands

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 3, 2025

  Ms. KING-HINDS. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce legislation that 
would amend the Wagner-Peyser Act to finally include the Northern 
Mariana Islands and American Samoa.
  The Wagner-Peyser Act established the Employment Service, a network 
of public employment offices that connects job seekers with employers. 
Yet, despite participating in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act 
programs, the Marianas and American Samoa are not eligible for the 
employment services formula grant that is currently provided to all 
other states and territories.
  In the 2017 902 report submitted to Congress, both the special 
representatives of the CNMI and President Trump recommended the 
Departments of Interior and Labor work to extend the Wagner-Peyser Act 
to the Marianas. I agree, but it is up to Congress to advance this 
legislation.
  The Wagner-Peyser grant would provide support to the CNMI and 
American Samoan workforce through skills assessment, career guidance, 
and training for prospective employees. Inclusion in Wagner-Peyser 
would also finally allow these insular areas to have employment data 
collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  A stronger workforce builds a stronger economy. Let's make things 
right and ensure parity for all American workers. I urge all my 
colleagues to support this legislation.

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