Career and Technical Education Caucus Co-Chairs Applaud Enactment of Major CTE Bill

President Trump today signed into law H.R. 2353, the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, bipartisan legislation to improve career and technical education programs across the country:

“Today is a win for the American worker,” said Representative Thompson. “This bill has been a long time coming and I am pleased that it has been approved unanimously by the United States Congress and now signed into law by President Trump. Given the dramatic evolution of our nation’s workforce, it is imperative that we create clear pathways to education and training for students interested in pursuing careers in high-demand industries and technical fields. As Co-Chair of the Career and Technical Education Caucus, I am proud of this bill, the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act — a well-engineered, bipartisan reauthorization aimed at permanently closing our nation’s skills gap. This law will work to restore rungs on the ladder of opportunity for every American regardless of age or background.”

“The Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, which funds important CTE programs in Rhode Island and across the country, has long been overdue for an update,” said Representative Langevin. “After years of work, I’m proud that this bill reflects an inclusive, thoughtful and bipartisan process. The Strengthening CTE for the 21st Century Act will help close the workforce skills gap in fields such as manufacturing, IT, and other trades by strengthening federal investment in CTE and realigning CTE programs with industry needs. This will ensure students are learning the academic, employability, and technical skills they need to succeed in high-paying, high-growth economic sectors. I am thankful to my CTE Caucus co-chair, Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, for his leadership on this bill and partnership on CTE issues in Congress over the years.”