Wednesday, May 4, 2005 By Michael Allen
(202) 225-2701

U.S. House Passes Bill to Renew Vocational Education
Boren says bill is critical to job training in rural Oklahoma

WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Representative Dan Boren today supported passage of a bill to renew federal vocational and technical education programs. By a resounding vote of 416-9, the House reauthorized $1.3 billion for vocational education programs that the Administration wanted to eliminate.

“Career-Tech is critical to provide quality job training in rural Oklahoma,” said Boren. “If we are to attract new businesses and spur job growth in Eastern Oklahoma, we must have a healthy Career-Tech system to meet workforce demands,” said Boren.

The Administration’s fiscal 2006 budget proposed eliminating the Perkins program, and using the money to expand No Child Left Behind Act testing and standards. Lawmakers from both parties came together to reject the proposal, citing the role that Perkins grants play in their districts.

“Oklahoma has a world-class Career-Tech system. Passing this bill was an important first step in making sure our vocational programs receive federal funds,” said Boren. “At a time when the Administration wants to cut funding for vocational education, this vote made a definitive statement that we want this program to continue,” said Boren.

The measure (H.R. 366) reauthorizes the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act of 1998 through 2011. Perkins grants supplement local vocational education programs, allowing schools to offer courses in emerging technologies and increasing access for special-needs students.

The Senate passed its version (S. 250) by a vote of 99-0 on March 10th. A “statement of administration policy” released today shied away from any veto threat.