River Bend Times

Today, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks introduced H.R. 2690, known as the Improve Employer-Directed Skills Act. This legislation aims to allow Iowa employers to collaborate directly with workforce boards to train and upskill workers for jobs they need to fill.

"In communities across Iowa, from our river counties to our rural towns, employers are looking for workers—and workers are looking for opportunity," Miller-Meeks stated. "I’m proud to lead this initiative because it cuts through Washington red tape and puts Iowa businesses in the driver’s seat. If employers know what skills are needed, let’s let them train for it. We don’t need top-down mandates—we need to trust our employers, support our workers, and give both the tools to succeed."

The Improve Employer-Directed Skills Act brings updates to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), allowing local boards and employers to align with current and future demands. It enables employers to invest in training and hire successful participants and establishes a clear local pipeline for a qualified workforce.

By reducing bureaucratic obstacles, the bill strengthens Iowa's workforce and maintains local economic competitiveness. It helps workers acquire practical, in-demand skills and industry-recognized credentials, while simultaneously allowing businesses to access the talent they require for growth.

Previously, a version of this bill was part of H.R. 6655, the Stronger Workforce for America Act, which passed in the House with bipartisan support.