Henrico Times

Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) has announced that the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act has reached a significant milestone of obtaining 100 cosponsors. The bipartisan bill, which aims to provide students with additional resources to pay for postsecondary education workforce certifications, has gained support in just nine months since its introduction.

Wittman expressed his satisfaction with the growing support for the legislation, stating, "I’m pleased to see support continue to grow for the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act. The majority of America’s workforce consists of middle-skill jobs that require more than a high school education but not a bachelor’s degree, which is why I’m proud to be leading this legislation in the House. I will keep fighting to equip our students with the tools and resources they need to lead our nation forward."

The Tomorrow's Workforce Coalition, which is dedicated to championing and rallying support for the bill, has also been expanding its reach. Currently, the coalition includes more than 760 trade associations, professional societies, and businesses.

The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act aims to broaden the scope of qualified expenses under 529 savings plans to include postsecondary training and credentialing. This includes licenses and non-governmental certifications. The bill seeks to provide tax-advantaged resources to families, students, and workers pursuing career growth, mid-career changes, or pathways that diverge from traditional academic routes.

ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason commended the bill, stating, "The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act can empower workers of any educational background, skill level, or age. This pragmatic policy would support all industries and professions that rely on employees with specialized training or credentials."

The legislation has garnered support from a wide range of representatives. Some of the cosponsors include Reps. Spanberger (D-VA), James (R-MI), McClellan (D-VA), Grothman (R-WI), Miller (R-OH), Owens (R-UT), and many others.

The bill's cosponsors come from various states and political affiliations, demonstrating the bipartisan nature of the legislation. This broad support reflects the recognition of the importance of investing in workforce development and providing opportunities for individuals to enhance their skills and qualifications.

As the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act continues to gain traction, it is clear that there is a growing consensus on the need for policies that support the diverse needs of the workforce. By expanding the scope of qualified expenses and providing tax-advantaged resources, this legislation seeks to empower individuals from all educational backgrounds to pursue career growth and success.

Click this link to access more information: https://wittman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5459