The Irrigation Association, Fairfax, Virginia, has joined the Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition, a group of companies with a mission to build support in Congress for workforce development policy that improves all economic sectors, among other goals.
One of the priorities for the coalition is to secure U.S. Senate and House of Representative cosponsors to drive forward on and pass S. 722/H.R. 1477, which would allow 529 plan funds to be used to pay for maintaining professional credentials.
“The Irrigation Association is excited to support Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition in its efforts to pass the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act,” says Nathan Bowen, Irrigation Association vice president of public affairs and advocacy. “By expanding the use of 529 accounts beyond traditional college expenses, we are fostering a pathway for lifelong learning and skill development, equipping our workforce with the tools needed to thrive in today’s dynamic economy. This legislation embodies our commitment to creating accessible and inclusive education opportunities, ultimately strengthening our workforce and driving economic prosperity for all.”
The legislation was introduced by Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Virginia, and currently has 53 bipartisan cosponsors in the house.
“I’m grateful for the support of these organizations for the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act,” says Wittman. “Their support, and the bipartisan support from my colleagues in Congress, emphasizes how important it is to remove the financial barriers to obtaining the in-demand skills of a 21st-century job market. By expanding the use of 529 account funds for postsecondary training expenses, we can ensure businesses are equipped with a skilled and innovative workforce who can drive our nation’s economy forward. I’m proud to continue leading this important effort with my Virginia Delegation colleague, Congresswoman Spanberger, and I look forward to future progression of our bill.”
