JOBS, EDUCATION AND THE WORKFORCE

SUPPORT FOR A NEW WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM

WHEREAS, The U.S. Conference of Mayors has had strong policy supporting systemic change in our country’s workforce development system for the last eight years; and

WHEREAS, an efficient and effective workforce development system is essential to the employment opportunities of a city’s citizens; and

WHEREAS, both the House and Senate have passed bills supporting a new workforce development system; and

WHEREAS, Congress has appropriated $250 million for Out-of-School Youth to be awarded in competitive grants in FY 98, but which must receive authorizing legislation by June 30, 1998; and

WHEREAS, The U.S. Conference of Mayors supports the concept of this legislation, which would provide a meaningful role for the mayor or chief local elected official; and

WHEREAS, under the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) of 1982 stipulates "any unit of general local government with a population of 200,000 or more" shall be automatically approved by the Governor as a service delivery area upon request,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The U.S. Conference of Mayors supports passage of the Workforce Investment Partnership Act by June 30, 1998, to ensure funding of the $250 million Out-of-School Youth Program, retaining the JTPA population threshold of 200,000 as under current law, to the extent feasible; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The U.S. Conference of Mayors strongly supports the inclusion of school-to-career activities in this legislation; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that funding must be maintained at least at current levels for the Summer Youth Employment Program in this legislation.