The bipartisan LEAP Act utilizes tax incentives to expand workforce development opportunities

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Mike Carey (R-OH-15), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-8) and Val Hoyle (D-OR-4) introduced the Leveraging and Energizing America’s Apprenticeship Programs (LEAP) Act, a bipartisan bill to address the job skills gap by supporting apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. The bill uses federal tax incentives to encourage more businesses to hire apprentices. 

The LEAP Act was first introduced by former Congressman Rodney Davis (R-IL-13) in 2013. Budzinski and Carey updated the legislation to eliminate age limits and emphasize the eligibility of pre-apprenticeship programs. 

WATCH: Budzinski Introduces First Bill to Support Apprenticeship & Pre-Apprenticeship Programs

“Today, I introduced my first piece of legislation to support the apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs that get folks ready for careers in growing industries,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “By providing tax credits to small businesses, this bill will both address the need for more qualified workers and cut educational costs for job seekers –  a win-win for employers and employees. I’m grateful to former Congressman Rodney Davis, who introduced the first version of this legislation back in 2013. And I’m thankful to Congressman Mike Carey for partnering with me to build on this bipartisan bill.” 

“The LEAP Act will help develop the use of apprenticeship programs in industries, whether it be construction, health care, technology, energy or manufacturing, throughout Ohio’s 15th Congressional District,” said Congressman Mike Carey. “I am proud to introduce this legislation with Rep. Budzinski and believe it will lead to stronger apprenticeship programs and eventually a stronger workforce across the country.” 

“As we look to strengthen our workforce and domestic industry capacities, it is critical that we increase opportunities for Americans to develop the skills demanded by the modern global economy,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “I am proud to co-lead the bipartisan LEAP Act which will help expand apprenticeship programs, reduce educational costs, and up-skill our workforce.”

“My educational pathway was through community college so I understand entering the workforce can look different for everybody,” said Congresswoman Hoyle. “Creating incentives and opportunities to expand access to certificated apprenticeship programs is one important way we will support a new generation of the workforce. I am proud to cosponsor the LEAP Act with Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, Congressman Mike Carey, and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi.” 

The LEAP Act provides a $1,500 federal tax credit for businesses hiring new apprentices that are registered with the U.S. Department of Labor or a state apprenticeship agency. The legislation is fully paid for through an offset barring the federal government from printing publications that are available online with an exception for seniors, Medicare recipients and those in communities with limited internet access.