Workforce Solutions Act

The Workforce Solutions Act of 2005

In 2004, a broad-based coalition of Massachusetts organizations representing employers, labor and industry associations, education, training, immigrant advocates, inter-faith groups and workforce investment boards joined together to respond to the growing workforce crisis in Massachusetts and the need to develop effective responses to the complex workforce development system. A series of forums were held across the Commonwealth for workers, businesses, educators, advocates, and workforce development organizations to discuss the obstacles preventing workers from reaching economic self-sufficiency, and employers from securing skilled employees. The more than 800 participants offered ideas about how to begin to overcome the obstacles and respond to the crisis.

Their ideas and recommendations formed the basis for the comprehensive legislation known as the Workforce Solutions Act of 2005. The full text of this bill can be found at:

Workforce Solutions Act of 2005

Legislature incorporates key elements of Workforce Solutions Act into Chapter 123 of the Acts of 2006 AN ACT Relative to Economic Investments in the Commonwealth to Promote Job Creation, Economic Stability, and Competitiveness in the Massachusetts Economy. Final text

Susan Tracy, President The Strategy Group outlines key elements of the Workforce Solutions Act for Speaker Sal DiMasi.

House and Senate Versions of the Bill

House Economic Stimulus Bill: http://www.mass.gov/legis/bills/house/ht04pdf/ht04429.pdf

Senate Commonwealth Investment Act: http://www.mass.gov/legis/bills/senate/st02/st02256.htm

A summary of the key provisions of the Workforce Solutions Act which was in the Conference Committee. Summary chart

The broad-based coalition has formed the Workforce Solutions Group, and continues its work to develop effective responses to workforce issues through statewide public policy and advocacy.

To view the list of groups that have endorsed the legislation, click here...