Last week, the House passed PHCC-supported HR 2353 – the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act).

Though Congress has funded the bill at the same level (approx.. $1.125 billion) over the last few years, the recently passed House version reflects an increase in funding to approx. $1.133 billion (the bill also continues to increase funding in small increments through fiscal 2023). 

The Perkins Act is annual federal funding to states for career and technical education programs at secondary and post-secondary levels. Last September, the House passed the reauthorization but the Senate never considered it.

“All education is truly career education, and we must give our students every opportunity to attain the skills they need to succeed,” said Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.).

House Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus Chairman Congressman Glenn Thompson (R-Penn.), the primary sponsor of the bill, said, “It is important we continue to fund these programs at the authorized levels so the programs can adequately serve students at all ages.”

PHCC will keep members up to date regarding Senate consideration.