Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission to study changes to the Incumbent Worker Training Account and funds.
Impact
As it stands, the Incumbent Worker Training Program, established in 1998, has not been significantly redesigned to adapt to modern demands despite the increasing complexity of workforce needs. Under SCR29, the Louisiana Workforce Commission will analyze the program’s effectiveness and recommend changes, potentially impacting existing training frameworks and the distribution of funds for training grants. With the current version of the program set to sunset in 2026 unless renewed by the legislature, this study represents a critical window for legislative action and reform aimed at enhancing workforce training mechanisms within the state.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution 29 (SCR29) urges the Louisiana Workforce Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on the Incumbent Worker Training Program. The study aims to evaluate the program's performance, identify its impact, and propose potential reforms to better meet the changing workforce needs of Louisiana's businesses. Recognizing the challenges that businesses face when trying to find qualified workers, SCR29 highlights the importance of a responsive workforce strategy to enhance economic competitiveness and address workforce shortages in the state.
Sentiment
General sentiment surrounding SCR29 is positive, with bipartisan support stemming from the recognition of workforce challenges in Louisiana. Voters and business leaders generally express a desire for more effective job training resources, underscoring a collective move towards supporting economic development. However, there are indications that concerns may arise regarding the specific recommendations generated by the study, especially if they entail substantial changes to existing programs that could affect accessibility for small businesses.
Contention
Potential points of contention may stem from differing opinions on how the program should be restructured. Stakeholders such as business owners, training providers, and economic development organizations may have varying perspectives on the best methods to address workforce shortages, potentially leading to debates over funding allocations and program priorities. The comprehensive nature of the study could bring to light divergent views on the effectiveness of current training solutions and the best path forward for workforce investment in Louisiana.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Economic Development, in consultation with the Louisiana Workforce Commission, to evaluate the state's readiness for attracting offshore wind energy supply chain industries to the state
Urges and requests the Dept. of Education and the La. Workforce Commission to study the feasibility of establishing a program to incentivize businesses to work in partnership with high schools to offer job training and internship programs for students
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to continue the task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the shortage of specialist physicians in this state
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to create a task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the specialist physician shortage in the state
Requests the Department of Education and Workforce Commission, along with local school boards and chambers of commerce, to aggressively develop and promote high quality, youth-serving apprenticeship programs and work-based experiences for high school students.
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission to conduct a study to determine the assets needed in order to accommodate and assist the oil and gas industry in providing trained Louisiana workers needed for oil and gas production expected from newly found minerals in the Tuscaloosa Marine Shale.
Requests certain state agencies and private businesses in Louisiana to recognize the value that justice-involved persons can bring to the workforce and society and to act with intention to empower, train, and employ such individuals.