Governor Kemp Signs New Laws to Strengthen Georgia’s Workforce
Georgia is taking big steps to help its workers and students get ready for good jobs in the future. Governor Brian Kemp recently signed several new bills into law that focus on workforce development, education, and job training. Supporters believe these changes will open up more opportunities for people in Georgia and help the state’s economy grow even stronger.
Apprenticeships and Technical Education for Students
One of the main new laws is House Bill 982. This bill creates new apprenticeship programs for high school students, giving them hands-on experience in real workplaces. It also makes it easier for students to get technical education while they are still in school.
- Apprenticeship programs will connect students with local businesses and technical colleges.
- Students will learn job-ready skills that are important for today’s high-demand careers.
- School districts, businesses, and technical colleges will work together to help students succeed.
Supporting Veterans and Military Families
Another important bill, Senate Bill 497, is aimed at helping veterans and military spouses find jobs more quickly in Georgia. This law makes it easier for them to get the professional licenses they need to work in fields like healthcare, teaching, and skilled trades.
- This bill streamlines the process for veterans and military spouses to get licensed and start working.
- It also offers more help to service members leaving the military who are looking for jobs in high-demand industries.
- Georgia wants to make sure those who have served our country get the support they deserve to start new careers.
Expanding Job Training and Education Opportunities
The new laws do even more to help people in Georgia get ready for skilled jobs. Lawmakers have included several other changes:
- Dual enrollment programs will be expanded so more high school students can take college courses and earn credits before they graduate.
- Technical colleges will get more funding, which will let them offer more classes and programs for job training.
- New pathways will be created for adult learners to earn industry-recognized credentials, even if they’ve been out of school for years.
Helping Industries with Worker Shortages
Georgia, like many other states, has seen worker shortages in some important industries. These new laws are designed to help fill those gaps, especially in areas such as:
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Information technology
Georgia’s Commitment to Growth and Opportunity
State officials say these laws are part of a larger plan to keep Georgia ahead of the competition when it comes to jobs and business growth. Georgia is already known for its “business-friendly climate” and strong job market, and these new laws are meant to keep the momentum going.
Governor Kemp emphasized, “We’re committed to making Georgia the best place to live, work, and raise a family. These new laws are a big step forward in achieving that goal.”
What Happens Next?
The new bills will take effect on July 1. Over the next few months, state agencies and schools will begin putting the new programs and changes into action.
- Students and parents can look for new apprenticeship and dual enrollment options at their schools.
- Veterans and military spouses can expect a faster, easier path to professional licenses.
- Adults interested in changing careers or learning new skills will have more options to earn industry certificates.