Introduction of the Employment Services and Jobs Parity Act

Floor Speech

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Ms. KING-HINDS. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce legislation that would amend the Wagner-Peyser Act to finally include the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa.

The Wagner-Peyser Act established the Employment Service, a network of public employment offices that connects job seekers with employers. Yet, despite participating in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs, the Marianas and American Samoa are not eligible for the employment services formula grant that is currently provided to all other states and territories.

In the 2017 902 report submitted to Congress, both the special representatives of the CNMI and President Trump recommended the Departments of Interior and Labor work to extend the Wagner-Peyser Act to the Marianas. I agree, but it is up to Congress to advance this legislation.

The Wagner-Peyser grant would provide support to the CNMI and American Samoan workforce through skills assessment, career guidance, and training for prospective employees. Inclusion in Wagner-Peyser would also finally allow these insular areas to have employment data collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A stronger workforce builds a stronger economy. Let's make things right and ensure parity for all American workers. I urge all my colleagues to support this legislation.

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