September 10th, 2009

Writes Dr. Roger Longenderfer in an op-ed today for the Patriot-News:

“While our lawmakers are handling difficult decisions and looking at the [budget] proposals line by line, they should know that a critical piece in driving business innovation, job creation and economic competitiveness is missing from the version presently under their review.

Senate Bill 850, which is now the basis for budget negotiations, zeroed out the governor’s recommended funding for some of Pennsylvania’s most successful work force development programs, industry partnerships and incumbent worker training.

This has indeed become a budget about priorities. But certainly, and especially in our economic climate, programs that help our state develop a stronger work force should be a priority.

The elimination of these funds could dismantle a work force system that is thriving in south-central Pennsylvania and has produced real results for its workers, its businesses and the economy. Our state’s work force development system takes an industry-led, demand-driven approach, connecting training and education programs to the critical needs of industry.”

Read the rest of the piece at the Patriot.