June 23, 2017

Kilmer Measure to Boost Job Training for Rural and Tribal Communities Passes House

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) successfully introduced a measure in the House of Representatives that could boost job training programs for rural communities and members of federally recognized Indian tribes. Kilmer’s amendment was included as part of the Accelerating Individuals into the Workforce Act that passed the House today. The bill creates workforce development pilot projects for recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

Kilmer’s amendment to the legislation ensures that the Department of Labor includes recommendations to Congress on how to address employment challenges facing rural and Tribal communities through apprenticeships and other jobs programs. More than 66,000 Washingtonians benefit from TANF, roughly 3,000 of which reside in Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, and Mason counties according to data collected by the Washington Employment Security Department.  

Watch video of Kilmer talking about his measure here.

“The biggest thing on the minds of folks I represent is jobs,” said Kilmer on the floor today. “Today’s bill will help people looking for work acquire skills to get a bigger paycheck and a better career. With our bipartisan amendment we can make sure that shot at opportunity is extended to all communities – no matter their zip code.”