H.R. 567: Expanding Labor Representation in the Workforce System Act

This bill, titled the Expanding Labor Representation in the Workforce System Act, proposes several amendments to existing regulations regarding labor representation on workforce development boards at both state and local levels. Here is a breakdown of the key components of the bill:

Increase Labor Representation on Boards

The bill seeks to amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to increase the percentage of labor representatives on state and local workforce development boards. Currently, labor representation is capped at 20 percent. The proposed amendment would raise this cap to 30 percent. This means that more seats on these boards would be allocated to organizations representing workers, which could influence decisions regarding job training, employment services, and workforce policies.

Definition of Labor Organization

The legislation also aims to formalize a broader definition of what constitutes a "labor organization." It adds to the existing definition under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by including:

• Organizations that are composed of labor organizations, like labor union federations or local labor bodies.
• Organizations that represent individuals employed by the federal government or related entities, individuals subject to specific labor laws (such as the Railway Labor Act), and agricultural laborers.

This expanded definition may enhance the ability of various types of labor groups to participate in the workforce development process, reflecting a more inclusive range of worker representation.

Purpose of the Changes

The changes proposed by this bill aim to strengthen the voice of labor in discussions and decisions that affect the workforce. By increasing representation and clarifying who qualifies as a labor organization, the bill seeks to ensure that the interests and needs of workers are more directly addressed in workforce development initiatives.

Revisions to Legislation

Specifically, the amendments will modify the following sections of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act:

• Section 101(b)(1)(C)(ii) concerning state workforce development boards.
• Section 107(b)(2)(B) addressing local workforce development boards.
• Section 3, which will include the new definition of labor organization.

Overall Objective

The overall objective of this bill is to enhance worker representation, aiming to influence workforce development policies to better align with the interests of labor. By amending these key areas of law, the bill seeks to create a more inclusive environment for discussing and addressing workforce issues.

Relevant Companies

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