Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act

Floor Speech

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Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, I enthusiastically support the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act.

When I visit communities in Oregon, I hear from business leaders, educators, and students about how hands-on career and technical education programs engage them and prepare them for success after high school, regardless of what path they take.

This CTE legislation authorizes needed increases in funding for CTE programs and takes important steps to help more students excel in school and in the workforce.

The bill will improve participation among historically underserved students, bring needed input from key stakeholders, including parents and industry groups, and help students learn employability skills as well as technical skills.

I thank my friend and colleague from New York, the co-chair of the STEAM Caucus, Congresswoman Stefanik, for working with me to include an amendment that promotes arts and design education, which is increasingly in high demand in numerous industry sectors that value innovation. I thank Chairman Kline, Ranking Member Scott, and Representatives Clark and Thompson for their leadership and commitment to improving CTE programs.

I ask my colleagues to join me in approving this legislation and call on the Senate to quickly take action.

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