Speaker Householder & Minority Leader Sykes Announce House Passage of House Bill 4

COLUMBUS— Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) and House Minority Leader Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Akron) today announced the Ohio House passage of House Bill 4, legislation that streamlines Ohio’s process for creating new job training certificates and industry-recognized credential programs. House Bill 4 is one of the bipartisan priority bills for the 133rd General Assembly, legislation that builds pillars for a stronger Ohio.

“House Bill 4 reduces burdens for our employers and helps Ohioans.” said Speaker Householder (R-Glenford). “Our sponsors, Representatives Richardson and Robinson, put a lot of work into this bill to make it work for Ohio. I thank them for their diligence and time. This bill will make a difference and help Ohioans compete in the 21st century workforce.”

“Cutting red tape and better connecting businesses with a skilled workforce keeps our promise to everyday Ohioans, that if you work hard and play by the rules, you’ll be able to get ahead and save for the future,” said Leader Sykes. “Expanding opportunity and building an economy that works for everyone moves our state forward and restores our promise as an opportunity state.”

This legislation, sponsored by Reps. Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) and Phil Robinson (D-Solon) streamlines the process for businesses to create new workforce certificate programs. This will enable the state to more quickly respond to changes in job training needs.

“House Bill 4 is a huge step forward for both Ohio’s business community and its workers,” said Rep. Richardson. “With its passage, more new businesses will want to locate in Ohio to employ the skilled workforce found here, and current Ohio businesses will be able to cut through red tape around industry recognized credentials and certificates and spend more time focused on their core missions. Ultimately, Ohioans will benefit because they will be well prepared and trained to meet our changing workforce needs.”

Under the bill, businesses who believe a new job training certificate program is needed would be able to work directly with the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, which would then vet the proposal and work with state education officials to develop curriculum, standards, or materials necessary for the credential or certificate program.

“While affordable access to college is important for our children’s future, workforce training and certification are equally important ways for Ohioans to live their American dream,” said Rep. Robinson. “HB 4 will help expand workforce development options for workers looking to make a better life for themselves and their families. Ohioans don’t want a hand out, they want a leg up, and more training options means better paying jobs and careers.”

HB 4 passed the Ohio House unanimously and now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.