This website is best viewed in a browser that supports web standards.

Skip to content or, if you would rather, Skip to navigation.

Listen Live
Donate
MARYVILLE

KXCV-KRNW


News Brief

Jan. 17, 2018DES MOINES, Iowa |  By: AP

Iowa Gov. Reynolds proposes $18 million worker training program

Gov. Kim Reynolds wants to spend about $18 million on worker training programs in the next couple of years to ensure Iowa employers can fill jobs at a time of low unemployment.

Reynolds announced new policies to address Iowa's shortage of qualified workers in her Condition of the State address on Jan. 8. The governor proposed expanding the state's apprenticeship program and creating a scholarship for residents who pursue up to a two-year degree in a high-demand field. Reynolds also recommended an Employer Innovation Fund to match private sector spending on training programs.

Iowa had a 2.9 percent unemployment rate in November, below the national rate of 4.1 percent. Employers consistently express concern over being unable to find qualified workers for job openings.

Legislation is still being drafted.