DES MOINES, IOWA -- An apparent compromise has been reached by Iowa lawmakers that will keep the state’s 36 workforce development centers open for this year.
The Iowa Legislature last year approved $8.67 million for funding of the centers. The agreement announced by legislators on Tuesday will maintain that funding and prevent the closings of any more offices this year.
“It’s time for us to move forward quickly and help underemployed and unemployed Iowans find work. The agreement reached will make sure businesses can find skilled workers and Iowans can get the skills they need to land a high quality job” said Representative Mary Gaskill of Ottumwa.
The package is scheduled to be approved by the House Appropriations Committee later this week.
An Iowa Supreme Court ruling earlier this month determined the Governor Terry Branstad had overstepped his authority by vetoing part of the funding for the centers leading to their closings.
“I’m glad we worked together to resolve our differences and I’m hopeful we’ll take quick action this week to end the uncertainty for Iowans,” Representative Gaskill added.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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