(Concord, NH) – Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) welcomed the signing into law of legislation to expand Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs.  The bipartisan Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act will improve the Perkins Act by simplifying the application process for federal grants, better aligning training with jobs needed locally, and increasing the amount of federal funds that states can set aside to assist eligible students in rural areas. This bill was featured on Congresswoman Kuster’s Jobs & Opportunity Agenda, which she unveiled in May. 

“We need an all of the above approach to expanding economic opportunity for individuals and families across the Granite State,” said Kuster. “That means improving access to apprenticeship and vocational programs, addressing the out of control cost of higher education, and strengthening public-private partnerships to foster small business growth. I’m excited that today the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act was signed into law and will help enhance career and technical training programs, particularly in rural areas.”

Kuster’s legislative agenda addresses numerous areas of need to support workers and small businesses. Specifically her agenda covers:

Building a 21st Century Workforce: We need an approach to skills development that focuses on life-long learning and ensuring that educators are training students and workers in the skills that are in demand regionally and locally.  

Promoting College Affordability: Granite Staters have more college debt than nearly any other state.  We need to make college more affordable, not only by expanding tuition assistance but also by holding colleges and universities accountable by incentivizing them to keep costs down.

Promoting STEM Education: Spurring engagement and interest in STEM education is critical to getting students involved in the fields that will help them be successful in the future economy. 

Combating the Opioid Epidemic: Over 20 percent of the reduction in workforce participation over the last decade is due to substance use disorder.  We need better treatment, prevention, education, and life-long recovery efforts to address both the human and economic costs of this crisis.

Helping Working Families: Benefits like paid sick leave, maternity leave, equal pay, and affordable childcare are a critical part of creating a happy and effective workforce.

Strengthening Rural Communities: Rural communities are an integral part of the culture and economy of the Granite State.  We need continued investment in the rural economy through expanded broadband, improved infrastructure, and educational facilities.

Investing in Infrastructure: It’s no secret that our aging infrastructure is a liability for our economy. We need new and creative ways to invest in highways, bridges, broadband, schools, ports, waste water, and airports that provide reliable funding certainty while utilizing both private and public investment. 

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