Sen. Shin backs bill that would reduce worker training costs

  • <br>Enterprise staff
  • Monday, March 3, 2008 6:47am

OLYMPIA – One of the highest barriers companies face when contemplating new hires is the expense of the specialized training that many jobs require. A worker training bill approved unanimously earlier this month by the Senate International Trade and Economic Development Committee would allow businesses to contract with state community and technical colleges and private career schools for no or low upfront costs.

“This is a win-win-win situation,” said the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Paull Shin, D-Edmonds. “The worker gets good training and a new job; the businesses get a break on the cost of training; and the taxpayers don’t have to spend a dime. Other states have proven that this strategy grows jobs, and I’m pleased we’re moving forward in our state.”

Senate Bill 5174 would create the Washington Customized Employment Workforce Training program that will benefit employers newly locating or expanding in Washington. Employers will enter into training agreements with private career schools or public community and technical colleges. The training will be paid for by bonds issued by the Washington Economic Development Finance Authority. Businesses will choose how they want to structure one half of the costs of the training, either up front or over the long-term. The other half of the training costs will be paid for by the Business and Occupation tax or utility tax receipts that result from the new economic activity.

Iowa spends $40 million on similar programs every year.

The proposal has been greeted with widespread support and is sponsored by members of both parties. During a public hearing on the bill, supporters included the Association of Washington Business, the Washington Economic Development Association, the Washington Public Ports Association, and the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

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