WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01) helped pass the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 which reauthorizes and strengthens the nation’s workforce development system which expired in 2020.

“I voted to pass this legislation and invest in our workforce because it’s clear to me that we have to do more to address the labor shortage in our communities,” said Congressman Chris Pappas, “This legislation will help businesses fill current openings, expand job training programs, and spur economic growth across our state. I’m committed to doing all that I can to develop our workforce and support our local economies.”

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 will:

• Fully fund WIOA programs by authorizing roughly $80 billion over six years, which will allow the workforce system to train one million workers per year by 2028;

• Establish a permanent Department of Labor program to help individuals released from incarceration transition back to employment and access sustainable career pathways;

• Expand summer and year-round jobs programs for youth;

• Strengthen the Jobs Corps program;

• Codify partnerships between employers and community colleges to provide high-quality job training;

• Strengthen industry and sector partnerships to better meet the needs of both employers and job seekers; and

• Provide funding for innovative approaches to workforce development.

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