Connect Act

Walt Farrell

Published June 29, 2018

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Senate Bill 3, sponsored by Senator Lindsey Tippins (Marietta) aims to identify critical workforce needs of emerging industries by creating a career pathway for students to earn industry certification and credentials.

How does Senate Bill 3 impact Georgia’s economy?

Senate Bill 3 also referred to as the Creating Opportunities Needed Now to Expand Credentialed Training (CONNECT) Act, allows for the creation of work-based learning programs such as internships, apprenticeships, and cooperative education. As one of Georgia’s eighteen career pathways, the CONNECT Act will accommodate economic growth through the establishment of educational programs that allow areas of concentration in fields of study that are critical to Georgia’s emerging industries.

How does Senate Bill 3 benefit Georgia businesses?

This measure authorizes the Department of Education to incentivize improved credentialed programs through the disbursement of competitive state grants. The resources provided by this legislation will increase educational opportunity and address the demand for certification training. As an essential component of workforce development, the CONNECT Act will ensure the preparation of current and future workers for careers in a variety of technical and professional disciplines.

The embedding of skills-based learning into academic instruction are vital in our continued efforts to promote economic mobility. As we continue to lead the nation in workforce development, we must implement policies that link education and workforce in a seamless system. The Chamber applauds the hard work and leadership of Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, Senator Lindsey Tippins, and members of the general assembly in passing this legislative priority.

To learn more about the Chamber’s continued efforts to keep Georgia the #1 state in which to do business, visit the Georgia Chamber website and view the Chamber’s  2018 Legislative Priorities and  Scorecard Legislation.