Supporting Knowledge and Investing in LIfelong Skills Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. ROKITA. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Kline, Dr. Foxx, the entire staff of the Education and the Workforce Committee, and everyone for working together on what is in every respect better. This bill is better than what is in current law.

I think we need to take just a minute and recognize that, because in a lot of ways and in a lot of different examples we don't recognize that. There are gains to be locked in, so let's do it. Let's start with this bill. If there is a gain to be locked in, let's lock it in and stand on the shoulders of that gain and continue working to improve not only this language, not only these programs, but everything we do around here.

As a member of the Education and the Workforce Committee, I know that a skilled workforce is essential for remaining economically competitive. In fact, every American knows that. If we are going to be competitive in a 21st century global world and win, then we need these programs and these precious dollars. Especially when we are at a time when we are $17.5 trillion in debt with more on the way, we need these programs working well. This bill does that. It reduces red tape and aims to end the fragmented nature of workforce services provided at the Federal, State, and local level. It eliminates 15 ineffective and duplicative programs, ensuring that our workforce investment is targeted and efficient.

I know and I take to heart what Ranking Member Miller said: some of us wish there are more programs reformed or even eliminated altogether; some of us wish there were 15 more programs added. But again, this is a step in the right direction. I urge my colleagues to lock in the gain. Let's stand on the shoulders of this and get to other matters.

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