WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) released a statement after the House Ways and Means Committee passed H.R. 8915, the Education and Workforce Freedom Act, legislation that includes language from the American Workforce Empowerment Act introduced by Congressman Finstad last year. The Education and Workforce Freedom Act was also cosponsored by Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01), Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), and Congressman Mike Collins (GA-10). 

“I’ve met with local businesses, truckers, manufacturers, tradesmen, and healthcare facilities across southern Minnesota, and many of them are facing an unprecedented workforce shortage and an increasing need for skilled labor,” said Rep. Finstad. “The Education and Workforce Freedom Act ensures that young people, especially those entering the trades, have access to the programs and resources they need to meet the demands of today’s workforce and succeed. I am pleased to see that this legislation passed the House Ways and Means Committee and I look forward to its progress through the legislative process.”

“President Trump’s tax cuts expanded the success of 529 accounts that enable millions of Americans to invest their hard-earned dollars towards their children’s educations,” said Rep. Hern. “At a time when inflation is hurting the American people, and the dollar is being stretched thin, 529 accounts need to be expanded to make K-12 education more affordable and also accommodate the needs of the American workforce.”

“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, and key industries are struggling to find adequately trained workers to fill these roles,” said Rep. Wittman. “The Education and Workforce Freedom Act will expand Americans’ access to resources to pay for post-secondary credentialing and licensing programs, which will help more Americans obtain and retain these good-paying jobs. I’m proud to see this critical piece of legislation pass the House Ways and Means Committee, and I urge my colleagues to support it when it comes to the House floor.”

“529 Plans are a vital tool for families to invest in their child’s education. I am proud to have helped craft this legislation, which expands the use of 529s to all kinds of widely recognized trades including pilot programs, aircraft mechanics schools, commercial driver license training, and more,” said Rep. Collins. “This bill will give all Americans aspiring to something other than just a four year degree another option to save for school, achieve their dreams, and build a career.”

Previously, Congressman Finstad introduced the American Workforce Empowerment Act, which would allow 529 savings accounts to be used for non-degree technical training, certification, and apprenticeship programs.