Rep. Erin Houchin seeks to tie workforce funding to outcomes
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Indiana Congresswoman Erin Houchin, R-9, introduced legislation Tuesday requiring workforce development funds to be directed to programs with a proven track record for success.
Houchin’s bill is called the Prioritizing Evidence for Workforce Development Act and mirrors legislation introduced in the Senate earlier this year by Sen. Mike Braun, R-IN.
The congresswoman, in a news release, said government too often throws money at programs without connecting it to outcomes. She says the legislation introduced this week will help change the approach of the current Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act enacted in 2014.
“Throughout my travels across the district and meeting with business owners, workforce shortages are always at the top of their list of challenges,” Houchin said. “That’s why my first bill in this committee focuses on re-engaging the 10 million American adults who are not participating in the workforce.”
Houchin cited the Goodwill Excel Center in Clarksville as an example of workforce programs done right. The congresswoman visited the Excel Center in April and highlighted its work in the House Education and Workforce Committee the month after.
Betsy Delgado, senior vice president of the Goodwill Excel Center National Office, applauded Houchin for her support in the news release.
“Prioritizing improvements based on evidence will help students and families achieve economic prosperity,” Delgado said. “As a provider of adult education through Adult High Schools, we welcome the increased emphasis on ensuring that our programs are serving our clients well.”
Houchin is a member of that committee as well as the Workforce Development Subcommittee. In committee, the congresswoman has focused attention on reengaging the 40% of able-bodied adults who aren’t currently working, the news release stated.
The bill is co-sponsored by Indiana Rep. Larry Bucshon, R-8, as well as Representatives Lisa McClain of Michigan, Mary Miller of Illinois, John James of Michigan, Aaron Bean of Florida and Mike Lawler of New York.
“Workforce shortages are top of mind for Hoosier businesses when I travel the state,” Braun said in a news release. “The best solution for this issue lies in effective, evidence-based education and workforce development programs to prepare Americans to fill these jobs and close the skills gap. I’m glad Congresswoman Houchin is introducing this legislation in the House to ensure that evidence-based workforce programs are prioritized across the nation.”
To read the full language of the bill, click here.