Iowa House Republicans have introduced legislation aimed at strengthening the state’s skilled workforce and expanding access to training in high-demand trades.
House Study Bill 674, known as the Iowa Skilled Workforce Act, was announced by House Speaker Pat Grassley. The bill focuses on expanding apprenticeship programs, increasing state investment and giving schools and industry more flexibility to meet workforce needs.
The proposal would increase funding for the 84E Apprenticeship Act from $3 million to $4.5 million annually and create a new Career Training Physical Expansion Program to support construction and expansion of training facilities at community colleges and within private-sector programs.
The bill also removes barriers for experienced tradespeople to teach, encourages pre-apprenticeship programs in K-12 schools and standardizes training ratios for plumbing, HVAC and electrical trades.
Grassley says the legislation is designed to connect Iowans with in-demand jobs while ensuring taxpayer dollars support workforce programs tied to real economic needs.
Grassley represents Iowa House District 57, which includes Butler County and part of Bremer County.
