Senator Bonacic Supports Legislation that Enhances Workforce Development to Improve Opportunities for More New Yorkers

(Albany, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) is pleased to announce that he has voted in favor of a package of bills aimed at boosting the state economy by training job seekers and existing employees for the employment opportunities that are in demand. The measures will eliminate the skills gap through education investments and advance networks between workers and job creators. They are among the products of an extensive examination of employment issues in New York conducted by the Senate’s Task Force on Workforce Development.

The bills acted upon today include:

• S2124A would direct the Commissioner of Education to develop guidelines for use by high school guidance counselors in facilitating student awareness and interest in apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and career and technical education opportunities;
• S938 would establish the Veteran Career Assistance Program in collaboration with the Division of Veterans Affairs, as well as SUNY and CUNY;
• S3789 would require the New York State Department of Labor (DOL) to publish an annual catalogue listing multiple state and federal funding programs and tax credits for workforce development and preparation, adult education, and skills training;
• S6087 would invest $35 million to expand New York State’s Pathways in Technology Schools (P-TECHs) and Early College High Schools to meet student demand and enhance educational performance;
• S2104 would give high school students the opportunity to earn academic credit towards graduation for outside work experience; and
• 397B would allow any veteran to be awarded a high school diploma based on their knowledge and experience in service to this country.

“Increasing workforce development opportunities will allow New Yorkers to better compete in the global economy,” said Senator Bonacic. “I’m pleased to support these bills because I know they will make a difference for those who are seeking employment in our state.”