Workforce innovation bill advanced

Lawmakers gave first-round approval March 23 to a bill that would provide future guidance for the state’s workforce investment system.

LB1110, introduced by Omaha Sen. Heath Mello, would outline guiding principles for the state’s workforce programs and services so that they are responsive to the needs of employers, workers and students.

Mello said the bill would codify legislative intent by including language related to workforce investment and development including career and technical education, upward mobility, training, union involvement and adult career education.

A Business and Labor Committee amendment, adopted 29-0, incorporated provisions of Mello’s LB1029. These provisions would create a sector partnership program to study labor availability and skills gaps in the state. They also would direct the state Department of Labor to provide technical assistance to public-private sector partnerships.

Bellevue Sen. Sue Crawford supported the bill, saying the creation of public-private partnerships would allow more people to join the state’s workforce.

“This is a critical issue in growing and developing our state,” she said. “It will provide opportunities to people to get the skills they need and participate in the workforce.”

The bill advanced to select file on a 26-0 vote.