National Apprenticeship Act of 2020

Floor Speech

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Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott), our distinguished Education and Labor Committee chair, as well as the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Investment chair, Mrs. Davis, for this bill and for all of their support.

I rise today in strong support of the National Apprenticeship Reauthorization Act. By creating 1 million new apprenticeship opportunities and yielding over $10 billion in net benefits, this legislation is a lifeline for our economy and for countless Americans, including those in my home State of North Carolina.

With a proven track record of success, we know this is a safe and smart investment.

I am also pleased that this legislation includes my bill, the Apprenticeship Access for All Act. This language will advance programs that promote the recruitment, employment, and retention of people of color, individuals with disabilities, and individuals facing barriers to employment, especially in high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand sectors and occupations. After all, we must be sure that everyone has access to opportunity.

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Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, to my colleagues, especially those on the other side of the aisle, I want to be clear about what we are voting to do here.

We are voting to ensure our workforce gets the investment it needs and the support it deserves. We are voting to show the American people that they are seen, that they are heard, and that we care deeply about providing them pathways to a stable future. And we are voting to uphold Congress' commitment and obligation to serve every American.

Ms. FOXX of North Carolina.

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