Cities Support Workforce Bill That Helps Provide for a 21st Century Workforce

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Jul 09, 2014, 07:24 ET

WASHINGTON, July 9, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National League of Cities applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for joining with the U.S. Senate to strengthen the nation's workforce system. The bipartisan Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which the House passed today, will streamline and modernize the nation's workforce system while meeting the local needs of both employers and employees.

National League of Cities President Chris Coleman, Mayor of Saint Paul Minn., released the following statement:

"This bipartisan bill is a huge victory for cities and towns. NLC and its members have worked tirelessly with Congress to craft a bill that would ensure that city residents have the skills necessary for a 21^st Century workplace. We are delighted to see our goals and objectives for the nation's workforce system were incorporated into the bill and we urge President Obama to sign it immediately.

"A strong workforce system that is aligned with local needs will give workers the expertise needed to successfully participate in the 21^st Century workforce. But cities know that a strong workforce system is about more than just skill sets; it's about creating opportunities for residents to support their families and contribute to their communities. This bill will help the nation produce a workforce that is globally competitive for decades to come. We hope this bipartisan spirit continues as the Congress works on other legislation this year."

The National League of Cities (NLC) is dedicated to helping city leaders build better communities. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.

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SOURCE National League of Cities