Rep. Robinson announces House Bill 4 signed into law

Says his first bill is a victory for expanding workforce development and supporting local businesses

January 14, 2020

COLUMBUS—State Rep. Phil Robinson (D-Solon) today announced Gov. Mike DeWine’s signing of House Bill (HB) 4, his bipartisan bill with state Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) to help streamline the process of developing industry-recognized credential and certificate programs. This is both Rep. Robinson’s first bill as a legislator, and his first to become law.

“In Northeast Ohio alone, there are more than 3,000 high paying trade and technical jobs currently available but unfulfilled. We need to connect businesses with hard working Ohioans and training programs for these middle-class pathway jobs in order to fulfill the Ohio promise of a better life,” said Rep. Robinson. “HB 4 will help expand workforce training and certification development options for people looking for the American dream to make a better life for themselves and their children’s future.”

HB 4 will set up the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation (OWT) as the “one-stop-shop,” potential first point of contact and resource for employers and companies to:

Be connected to existing certificate or credential programs,
Vet proposals and obtain guidance on how to work with schools and state education agencies to develop programs,
Help make the process quick and efficient.

An example could include a tech company is moving to the state and they want to have employees trained in specific computer coding or a new program. Or a car company is creating a new electric or autonomous vehicle and need employees trained in special manufacturing and development methods.

“I’m thankful for the House’s leadership in prioritizing this bill,” said Rep. Robinson. “I am looking forward to seeing many Ohioans take advantage of these new opportunities.”