State Reps. David Thomas and Nick Santucci Introduce the Joining Opportunities, Businesses, and Schools Act

State Representatives David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Nick Santucci (R-Niles) recently introduced House Bill 994 - the Joining Opportunities, Businesses, and Schools (JOBS) Act.

House Bill 994 works to connect local businesses with institutions of higher education to provide students with workforce training opportunities, including certificate programs aligned with in-demand workforce needs. Participating businesses would receive a performance-based tax incentive for using the program. 

To qualify, a partnership must include: 

Curriculum Involvement – The employer would be responsible for developing the curriculum to reflect current industry standards. 
Instructional Resources – The employer would be responsible for providing the necessary tools, equipment, or subject matter experts. 
Industry Recognized Credentials – The curriculum must lead to the student earning an industry recognized credential with broad labor market value. 
Academic Control – The institution of higher education shall retain full academic authority and comply with all state, federal, and accreditation requirements.
 

“This is a great example of a way to help meet the needs and fill the separation between open jobs and the education able to train our workers. Instead of throwing money at the problem, we are taking a fiscally responsible approach to incentivize these partnerships,” said Representative David Thomas. 

“The JOBS Act is about making sure our students have the skills and credentials they need to build successful careers right here in Ohio,” said Santucci. “Our employers know the skills they need to compete and grow, and our colleges and universities can help prepare students to meet that demand. By bringing them together, we can create a stronger pipeline from the classroom to a good-paying job, give students more pathways to opportunity, and ensure Ohio businesses have the skilled workforce they need to succeed.”

The JOBS Act would be administered by the Chancellor of Higher Education and the Director of Development, with tax credits issued through the Tax Commissioner.

House Bill 994 awaits a committee assignment.