State Representatives Richardson and Robinson Introduce Legislation to Streamline the Ohio Pathways Workforce Certificate Process
COLUMBUS – State Representative Tracy Richardson today introduced bipartisan legislation streamlining Ohio’s process for creating new job training certificates and industry-recognized credential programs.
Richardson (R-Marysville) said the legislation, House Bill 4, will allow employers to work directly with the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation to develop new job training programs.
“The goal is to streamline the industry-recognized credential and certificate making process so Ohioans can compete in the quickly-changing 21st Century economy,” Richardson said.
She introduced the bill with Representative Phil Robinson (D-Solon).
Under the bill, employers proposing the creation of a new job training certificate or industry-recognized credential program will be able to work directly with the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation rather than trying to navigate the bureaucracy in Columbus.
The Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation would then work collaboratively with the Ohio Department of Education or Department of Higher Education in developing the curriculum, standards or materials necessary for the credential or certificate program.
“By having the Office of Workforce Transformation become the centralized point of contact for employers on this issue, we can reduce red tape, improve access to training and allow businesses to spend more time focused on their core missions,” Richardson said.
HB 4 will now be assigned to a committee and will await its first hearing.