Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

Dear Chairman Mikulski, Senator Shelby, Chairman Rogers and Representative Lowey:

On behalf of the nation’s governors, we want to thank Congress for passing the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and including the 15 percent set-aside. We urge you now to follow through on the promises of WIOA by fully restoring the set-aside in FY 2015 appropriations.

Many of the most innovative, nimble and effective workforce system strategies were created and implemented with WIA set-aside funding for statewide activities. These flexible funds have led to strong, responsive statewide workforce systems that are helping to attract and retain businesses, create jobs and improve workers’ skills.

Full restoration of the 15 percent set-aside will allow governors to expand and revive critical programs and activities, such as job training for in-demand occupations aligned with business needs; enhanced coordination of workforce development services across state agencies; development of new online resources for job seekers and businesses; and additional employment and training services for at-risk populations such as veterans, youth and the long-term unemployed.

Our economy is improving, but there is much more work to be done.  Governors call on Congress to immediately restore the 15 percent set-aside to ensure that states can continue to operate cutting-edge programs and initiatives that equip our citizens with the advanced skills necessary for our modern economy.

Sincerely,