Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Re-Introduces Resolution Calling to Double Federal Funding for Career and Technical Education

WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) re-introduced a congressional resolution calling for the doubling of federal funding for career and technical education (CTE). The resolution, endorsed by the Association for Career and Technical Education, builds on years of work advocating for greater funding for CTE programs by Congressman Krishnamoorthi. This includes his 2018 bipartisan law, the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21^st Century Act, which reformed CTE programs for the first time in more than a decade and provided nearly $1.4 billion annually to programs across Illinois and around the country for millions of Americans.

"The ability to adapt and evolve is what has kept American workers and our economy ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive world," Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. "By doubling funding for career and technical education programs, we can equip workers with in-demand skills before they enter the job market, creating an expanded pathway to the middle class and a stronger state and country. Now is the time to invest in our workforce and secure a better future for workers and our economy."

"Our nation relies on career and technical education (CTE) to equip students with strong skills and experiences that prepare them for meaningful and rewarding careers, boosting our economy and closing the skills gap," ACTE Executive Director LeAnn Curry said. "ACTE is proud to endorse Congressman Krishnamoorthi's resolution expressing the vital need for federal investments in Perkins V, which is critical to the sustainability of CTE programs nationwide. We are grateful to Congressman Krishnamoorthi for his support in CTE and for introducing this resolution that recognizes how significant these investments are for our students, our communities, and the country."

During his time in Congress, Congressman Krishnamoorthi has become a leading voice in calling for expanding funding for CTE programs. In addition to his 2018 law, Congressman Krishnamoorthi has spent time traveling across Illinoisto speak with labor leaders, educators, students, and workers alike on how best to improve CTE programs. Congressman Krishnamoorthi has also introduced the Opportunity to Compete Act, legislation that would ensure qualified candidates who lack a four-year college degree are not automatically dismissed by computer hiring systems.

The full text of the resolution can be found here.