Last week, congressional leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives, led by Speaker John Boehner (R-OH), agreed to accept a temporary two month extension of the expiring Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act (EUC08) program and Social Security payroll tax cut. Passage came swiftly in both the House and Senate last Friday morning as the compromise legislation was passed in both Chambers by voice vote.
In announcing the agreement, House Speaker John Boehner said Thursday, “Senator Reid and I have reached an agreement that will ensure taxes do not increase for working families on January 1 while ensuring that a complex new reporting burden is not unintentionally imposed on small-business job creators.”
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) said Thursday evening he was “grateful that the voices of reason have prevailed,” and added that “I look forward to appointing members of my caucus to continue negotiations toward a year-long agreement. Two months is not a long time, and I expect the negotiators to work expeditiously to forge yearlong extensions of these critical policies.”
The House Majority, which rejected a similar compromise earlier last week, came under increasing political pressure over the week – much of it from its own party – to accept the two-month extension that already passed the Senate. It was reported House Speaker Boehner was determined to settle the issue and announced the decision on a conference call to House Members, ending a partisan fight that threatened to keep Congress and President Obama in town through Christmas.
When Congress returns, attention will turn to the conference committee assigned to hammer out a deal between the two chambers. But the differences remain large over how to pay for the deal with Republicans looking to areas such as freezing wages of federal workers and Democrats still considering increasing taxes on millionaires.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Best Wishes for the Holidays
As 2011 comes to an end I look back and reflect. It's been a year of personal sadness and happiness. My mother passed away this year and my first grandchild, Lillian was born. One thing that has remained constant in my life this last year is IAWP.
I have worked this last year as International Vice President and President Elect to upgrade the Workforce Professional Development Program to an online process, which will launch this spring. I also am proud of the strategic plan and reorganization that I helped developed and was passed by the board of directors in September. The other major initiative I headed up was the retooling of the IAWP membership and individual/group awards.
I feel proud to work along side so many workforce professionals I call my friends. I wish everyone safe and happy holidays and may all your hopes and dreams come true.
I have worked this last year as International Vice President and President Elect to upgrade the Workforce Professional Development Program to an online process, which will launch this spring. I also am proud of the strategic plan and reorganization that I helped developed and was passed by the board of directors in September. The other major initiative I headed up was the retooling of the IAWP membership and individual/group awards.
I feel proud to work along side so many workforce professionals I call my friends. I wish everyone safe and happy holidays and may all your hopes and dreams come true.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
UI Benefit Claims Drop to Lowest Level Since 2008
The number of Americans filing for first-time unemployment benefits dropped to their lowest level since April 2008, boosting optimism in the job market.
In a surprise drop, 364,000 people filed initial jobless claims in the week ended Dec. 17 according to the U.S, Labor Department. That was a decrease of 4,000 from the prior week. Economists were expecting claims to rise to 380,000.
Last week, claims fell to their lowest level since May 2008, bringing hopes that the labor market could finally be improving meaningfully. A level below 400,000 often signals job growth strong enough to lower the unemployment rate, many economists say.
Meanwhile continuing claims -- which include Americans filing for their second week of claims or more -- fell 79,000 to 3,546,000 in the week ended Dec. 10.
In November, the unemployment rate unexpectedly plummeted to to 8.6% -- its lowest rate in nearly three years. The dip provided optimism about economic growth.
In a surprise drop, 364,000 people filed initial jobless claims in the week ended Dec. 17 according to the U.S, Labor Department. That was a decrease of 4,000 from the prior week. Economists were expecting claims to rise to 380,000.
Last week, claims fell to their lowest level since May 2008, bringing hopes that the labor market could finally be improving meaningfully. A level below 400,000 often signals job growth strong enough to lower the unemployment rate, many economists say.
Meanwhile continuing claims -- which include Americans filing for their second week of claims or more -- fell 79,000 to 3,546,000 in the week ended Dec. 10.
In November, the unemployment rate unexpectedly plummeted to to 8.6% -- its lowest rate in nearly three years. The dip provided optimism about economic growth.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Congress Approves Fiscal 2012 Budget
The House and Senate completed the fiscal 2012 appropriations process, passing a $915 billion spending measure late Friday in the House and Saturday morning in the Senate. President Obama signed into law a one-day continuing resolution (H J Res 94) that kept the government funded through Dec. 17.
The budget agreement ensures most U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) programs will be funded at levels similar to fiscal 2011. The conference agreement include the following:
The budget agreement ensures most U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) programs will be funded at levels similar to fiscal 2011. The conference agreement include the following:
- State set aside will not exceed five percent;
- Dislocated Workers State Grants reduced by $55 million;
- Workforce Innovation Grants reduce from approximately $100 million in the Senate bill to $50 million;
- Administration contingency funding for UI retains the same level. The Average Weekly Insured Unemployment (AWIU) is maintained at 4.832 million with an additional $28.6 million available for every 100,000 increase in the AWIU level;
- $4.094 million for State Unemployment Insurance and Employment Service Operations including a total of $60 million to conduct in-person reemployment and eligibility assessments (REA) and unemployment insurance improper payment reviews.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Near Agreement
Congressional leaders expressed optimism Thursday that agreement was near on extending this year's payroll tax cut, renewing unemployment benefits and averting a federal shutdown.
"We can extend payroll tax relief for American workers and create new jobs and keep the government running and, frankly, we can do it in a bipartisan way," House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, told reporters, a turnabout from weeks of partisan sniping from both sides.
"No more show votes," Boehner said after praising earlier remarks by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., that lingering disagreements on a mammoth spending bill could be easily resolved. "It's just time to legislate."
Reid opened the Senate's morning session by saying he and the chamber's top Republican have held talks to resolve remaining disputes. With lawmakers itching to return home before the holidays, Reid said he and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., hope they can reach a deal "that would get us out of here in a reasonable time, in the next few days."
"We're confident, optimistic we'll be able to resolve both on a bipartisan basis," said McConnell, referring to one bill that would renew the payroll tax cut and jobless benefits, and a separate spending measure that would keep federal agencies open.
President Barack Obama applied pressure of his own, saying Congress "should not and cannot" go home until it had resolved the issues. "There's no reason why we shouldn't be able to extend these items, the payroll tax cut, U.I. before holidays." "There's no reason the government should shut down over this, and I expect all of us to do what's necessary in order to do the people's business and make sure that it's done before the end of the year."
In part, the turnabout reflected the calendar: 160 million Americans would get a sudden tax increase on Jan. 1 if the payroll tax cut was not renewed, and most government agencies would close this Saturday without agreement on spending legislation.
"We can extend payroll tax relief for American workers and create new jobs and keep the government running and, frankly, we can do it in a bipartisan way," House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, told reporters, a turnabout from weeks of partisan sniping from both sides.
"No more show votes," Boehner said after praising earlier remarks by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., that lingering disagreements on a mammoth spending bill could be easily resolved. "It's just time to legislate."
Reid opened the Senate's morning session by saying he and the chamber's top Republican have held talks to resolve remaining disputes. With lawmakers itching to return home before the holidays, Reid said he and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., hope they can reach a deal "that would get us out of here in a reasonable time, in the next few days."
"We're confident, optimistic we'll be able to resolve both on a bipartisan basis," said McConnell, referring to one bill that would renew the payroll tax cut and jobless benefits, and a separate spending measure that would keep federal agencies open.
President Barack Obama applied pressure of his own, saying Congress "should not and cannot" go home until it had resolved the issues. "There's no reason why we shouldn't be able to extend these items, the payroll tax cut, U.I. before holidays." "There's no reason the government should shut down over this, and I expect all of us to do what's necessary in order to do the people's business and make sure that it's done before the end of the year."
In part, the turnabout reflected the calendar: 160 million Americans would get a sudden tax increase on Jan. 1 if the payroll tax cut was not renewed, and most government agencies would close this Saturday without agreement on spending legislation.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Happy Anniversary ODEP
Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis and Deputy Secretary of Labor Seth D. Harris today commemorated the Office of Disability Employment Policy's 10th anniversary by celebrating the positive impact of its policies and program initiatives with major leaders in the community. Featured speakers included Sen. Tom Harkin (Iowa); Rep. Steny Hoyer (Maryland); Kareem Dale, special assistant to the president for disability policy; Kathleen Martinez, assistant secretary of labor for ODEP and past assistant secretaries for the office.
Also participating were two of the visionaries behind ODEP's creation – Tony Coelho, chairman of the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities from 1994 to 2001, and Becky Ogle, executive director of the Presidential Task Force on the Employment of Adults with Disabilities from 1998 to 2001.
"Thanks to ODEP's hard work, the conversation has shifted away from whether people with disabilities can work to what tools and supports are needed to assist them in doing so," said Secretary Solis. "The agency's policies, program and practices have opened doors to employment opportunities, education and strong partnerships that are helping people with disabilities live better, fuller lives."
ODEP was created within the Labor Department to make disability employment policy a permanent part of its overall employment agenda. In addition to working with other agencies across the department, ODEP's mission includes working with outside federal agency partners to develop national disability employment-related policy.
Among its many achievements, ODEP has collaborated with federal, state and community organizations to collect the first statistical data on employment rates of people with disabilities; made the One-Stop Career Centers system more accessible and welcoming to people with disabilities; launched the Add Us In initiative to improve employment opportunities with small businesses for people with disabilities; promoted customized employment as a strategy for employing people with disabilities who have complex needs; developed a comprehensive framework to improve youth transition outcomes; and worked with its federal agency partners in implementing the Obama administration's executive order to make the federal government a model employer in hiring individuals with disabilities.
In conjunction with the theme "Real People, Real Impact," today's program highlighted the career successes of youths and adults who have been the beneficiaries of ODEP's work.
"Today and every day, people with disabilities add significant value to America's workplaces and economy," Martinez said. Through ODEP's policies and practices, we are witnessing the move toward a more inclusive America, one rich with diversity where people with disabilities are recognized for the talents they bring."
For more information about today's program, ODEP and its initiatives to help individuals with disabilities transition into the workplace, visit http://www.dol.gov/odep.
Also participating were two of the visionaries behind ODEP's creation – Tony Coelho, chairman of the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities from 1994 to 2001, and Becky Ogle, executive director of the Presidential Task Force on the Employment of Adults with Disabilities from 1998 to 2001.
"Thanks to ODEP's hard work, the conversation has shifted away from whether people with disabilities can work to what tools and supports are needed to assist them in doing so," said Secretary Solis. "The agency's policies, program and practices have opened doors to employment opportunities, education and strong partnerships that are helping people with disabilities live better, fuller lives."
ODEP was created within the Labor Department to make disability employment policy a permanent part of its overall employment agenda. In addition to working with other agencies across the department, ODEP's mission includes working with outside federal agency partners to develop national disability employment-related policy.
Among its many achievements, ODEP has collaborated with federal, state and community organizations to collect the first statistical data on employment rates of people with disabilities; made the One-Stop Career Centers system more accessible and welcoming to people with disabilities; launched the Add Us In initiative to improve employment opportunities with small businesses for people with disabilities; promoted customized employment as a strategy for employing people with disabilities who have complex needs; developed a comprehensive framework to improve youth transition outcomes; and worked with its federal agency partners in implementing the Obama administration's executive order to make the federal government a model employer in hiring individuals with disabilities.
In conjunction with the theme "Real People, Real Impact," today's program highlighted the career successes of youths and adults who have been the beneficiaries of ODEP's work.
"Today and every day, people with disabilities add significant value to America's workplaces and economy," Martinez said. Through ODEP's policies and practices, we are witnessing the move toward a more inclusive America, one rich with diversity where people with disabilities are recognized for the talents they bring."
For more information about today's program, ODEP and its initiatives to help individuals with disabilities transition into the workplace, visit http://www.dol.gov/odep.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Unemployed Americans with Disabilities May Get a Boost
Americans with disabilities, facing even higher hurdles than others finding jobs, would get a boost under an Obama administration plan to set new hiring procedures for government contractors.
The U.S. Department of Labor proposed a rule Thursday that would require most companies with federal contracts to set goals of having disabled workers make up 7 percent of their workforce.
Labor officials hailed the plan as an economic game-changer at a time when a staggering eight of 10 working-age Americans with disabilities are out of the workforce entirely.
The government long has used the leverage of federal spending to promote affirmative action in the hiring of women and minorities. The new rule would, for the first time, give similar treatment to people with disabilities.
The U.S. Department of Labor proposed a rule Thursday that would require most companies with federal contracts to set goals of having disabled workers make up 7 percent of their workforce.
Labor officials hailed the plan as an economic game-changer at a time when a staggering eight of 10 working-age Americans with disabilities are out of the workforce entirely.
The government long has used the leverage of federal spending to promote affirmative action in the hiring of women and minorities. The new rule would, for the first time, give similar treatment to people with disabilities.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Jobless Rate Update
U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis said the drop in the unemployment rate shows the U.S. economy is recovering, and extending a cut in the payroll tax will help boost hiring and spending even more.
The jobless rate remains high and “the urgency is to do something now,” Solis said in a television interview.
The Labor Department today said the jobless rate fell to 8.6 percent in November, the lowest since March 2009, after employers last month added 120,000 jobs.
The government also revised to 100,000 the number of jobs companies added to their payrolls in October, up from the initial estimate of 80,000.
The jobless rate remains high and “the urgency is to do something now,” Solis said in a television interview.
The Labor Department today said the jobless rate fell to 8.6 percent in November, the lowest since March 2009, after employers last month added 120,000 jobs.
The government also revised to 100,000 the number of jobs companies added to their payrolls in October, up from the initial estimate of 80,000.
Monday, December 5, 2011
WIA Funding Update
The House and Senate have started negotiations on their final Fiscal Year 2012 Labor-HHS Appropriations bill. One of the key decisions is whether to accept the House proposal to cut funding for Workforce Investment Act programs by roughly 75 percent by changing the funding cycle from a program year to a fiscal year basis. The Senate bill did not make any changes to the WIA funding cycle and maintains level funding for WIA formula programs.
Under the House Draft Bill, beginning:
* April 1, 2012, it would reduce WIA Youth Activities by 78 percent;
* July 1, 2012, it would reduce WIA Adult Employment and Training by 73 percent;
* July 1, 2012, it would reduce Dislocated Worker Employment and Training Activities by 94 percent; and
* July 1, 2012, it would reduce Dislocated Workers National Reserves by 81 percent.
Under the House Draft Bill, beginning:
* April 1, 2012, it would reduce WIA Youth Activities by 78 percent;
* July 1, 2012, it would reduce WIA Adult Employment and Training by 73 percent;
* July 1, 2012, it would reduce Dislocated Worker Employment and Training Activities by 94 percent; and
* July 1, 2012, it would reduce Dislocated Workers National Reserves by 81 percent.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Government Funded Until December 16th
Last week the House and Senate approved a continuing resolution to keep the government funded until December 16. The legislation, which also included fiscal 2012 appropriations bills for Agriculture, Commerce-Justice-Science, and Transportation-Housing and Urban Development, is expected to be signed by President Obama.
Once signed by the President, three of the regular nine appropriations bills will be enacted for fiscal 2012 which began October 1. But the other appropriations bills – including funding for the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) remain unfinished, and appropriators in both chambers expect to roll the remaining nine bills into one large omnibus spending package that moves in December.
The effort will be difficult given the lack of consensus, especially on the Labor-Health and Human Services and Education bill which funds the USDOL’s workforce programs and is the largest domestic discretionary spending bill. In particular, there are sharp differences between the House and Senate on funding levels for workforce programs described below.
Difference Between House and Senate on Workforce Programs:
While the Senate appropriations bill for the U.S. Department of Labor would fund the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) formula programs at fiscal 2011 levels, the House Committee on Appropriations released a draft bill that would make significant cuts to WIA Adult, Youth and Dislocated Workers programs.
Under the House draft bill, funding for WIA formula programs effectively ends December 31, 2012 and at sharply reduced levels. Given the precarious nature of the appropriations process, this would create considerable uncertainty for states near the end of calendar year 2012 on whether the WIA formula programs will be funded.
Once signed by the President, three of the regular nine appropriations bills will be enacted for fiscal 2012 which began October 1. But the other appropriations bills – including funding for the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) remain unfinished, and appropriators in both chambers expect to roll the remaining nine bills into one large omnibus spending package that moves in December.
The effort will be difficult given the lack of consensus, especially on the Labor-Health and Human Services and Education bill which funds the USDOL’s workforce programs and is the largest domestic discretionary spending bill. In particular, there are sharp differences between the House and Senate on funding levels for workforce programs described below.
Difference Between House and Senate on Workforce Programs:
While the Senate appropriations bill for the U.S. Department of Labor would fund the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) formula programs at fiscal 2011 levels, the House Committee on Appropriations released a draft bill that would make significant cuts to WIA Adult, Youth and Dislocated Workers programs.
Under the House draft bill, funding for WIA formula programs effectively ends December 31, 2012 and at sharply reduced levels. Given the precarious nature of the appropriations process, this would create considerable uncertainty for states near the end of calendar year 2012 on whether the WIA formula programs will be funded.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Veterans Initiative
On Monday, November 7th, President Obama was joined by leading Veteran Service Organizations to launch new job search tools for Veterans. This initiative is led by the U.S. Department of Labor and includes two job search initiatives, the continuation of “My Next Move” for Veterans and a Veterans’ Job Bank and the issuance of a “Veteran Gold Card.”
The Veteran Gold Card provides post-9/11 veterans with extra support as they transition out of the military. Once a veteran has downloaded the Veteran Gold Card, he or she can access six months of personalized case management, assessments and counseling at the roughly 3,000 One-Stop Career Centers located across the country.
My Next Move for Veterans is an easy-to-use online tool created by the U.S. Department of Labor allowing veterans to enter information about their experience and skills in the field, and match them with civilian careers that put their experience and skills to use. The site also includes information about salaries, apprenticeships, other related education and training programs, and links to job openings. The job openings in “My Next Move” are provided by the National Labor Exchange and includes state job bank content.
The Veterans’ Job Bank connects unemployed veterans to job openings with companies that want to hire them. A jobs filter allows veteran job seekers to view job listings from DirectEmployers Association’s member companies who take affirmative action to employ veterans in conformance with federal laws and regulations. Employers who would like to participate in the Veterans’ Job Bank initiative can visit the: Instructions for Employer Participation.
The Veteran Gold Card provides post-9/11 veterans with extra support as they transition out of the military. Once a veteran has downloaded the Veteran Gold Card, he or she can access six months of personalized case management, assessments and counseling at the roughly 3,000 One-Stop Career Centers located across the country.
My Next Move for Veterans is an easy-to-use online tool created by the U.S. Department of Labor allowing veterans to enter information about their experience and skills in the field, and match them with civilian careers that put their experience and skills to use. The site also includes information about salaries, apprenticeships, other related education and training programs, and links to job openings. The job openings in “My Next Move” are provided by the National Labor Exchange and includes state job bank content.
The Veterans’ Job Bank connects unemployed veterans to job openings with companies that want to hire them. A jobs filter allows veteran job seekers to view job listings from DirectEmployers Association’s member companies who take affirmative action to employ veterans in conformance with federal laws and regulations. Employers who would like to participate in the Veterans’ Job Bank initiative can visit the: Instructions for Employer Participation.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Why Everyone Needs a Professional Network
Thanks to La-Tica Watson from the Iowa Chapter for sharing this article from JobDig about Professional Networks. Jobdig Article
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Celebrating Veterans Day 11.11.11
Let's all pause to remember all our veterans and thank them for their service to our country. My grandfather served in the Army infantry during World War I, my father served in the submarine service during World War II, and I married a Navy corpsman during the Viet Nam War. I remember everyday that freedom isn't free. Veterans Day 2011
Ready for Awards?
The end of the IAWP award period is quickly approaching. The major part of the activity to be considered must have occurred during calendar year 2011. Below is a summary of the Individual and Group Awards
Citation Award - individual & group (nonmember)
Recognizes outstanding contributions to IAWP or workforce development from a private sector or non-governmental nonprofit organization and not employed by a workforce development entity.
Award of Merit - individual & group (member)
Recognizes service or achievement beyond normal expectations or job requirements.
Public Policy Award - Individual (member/nonmember)
Recognizes an individual who performed outstanding service in support of workforce development programs and/or personnel. Potential nominees include state of federal elected officials, federal administrators, workforce agency directors, etc.
Workforce System Customer Service Award - individual and group (member/nonmember)
Recognizes exceptional service to customers throughout the workforce system in areas including but not limited to job seekers, UI claimants, businesses, schools, vocational rehabilitation clients, veterans, people with disabilities, former felons, co-workers, youths welfare recipients, and job training participants. Chapters can submit chapter-level specific awards (e.g. Veteran, One-Stop, UI, etc.) under this category. Chapters may submit up to 3 individual and 3 group nominations.
Lifetime Achievement Award – individual (member)
Recognizes outstanding, long-term commitment to IAWP's objectives.
Retiree of the Year Award – individual (member)
Recognizes continued outstanding commitment to IAWP's objectives following retirement.
Ealton Nelson International Achievement Award – individual/group & chapter (non-US member)
Rerecognizes outstanding commitments to and achievements of IAWP's international development.
Citation Award - individual & group (nonmember)
Recognizes outstanding contributions to IAWP or workforce development from a private sector or non-governmental nonprofit organization and not employed by a workforce development entity.
Award of Merit - individual & group (member)
Recognizes service or achievement beyond normal expectations or job requirements.
Public Policy Award - Individual (member/nonmember)
Recognizes an individual who performed outstanding service in support of workforce development programs and/or personnel. Potential nominees include state of federal elected officials, federal administrators, workforce agency directors, etc.
Workforce System Customer Service Award - individual and group (member/nonmember)
Recognizes exceptional service to customers throughout the workforce system in areas including but not limited to job seekers, UI claimants, businesses, schools, vocational rehabilitation clients, veterans, people with disabilities, former felons, co-workers, youths welfare recipients, and job training participants. Chapters can submit chapter-level specific awards (e.g. Veteran, One-Stop, UI, etc.) under this category. Chapters may submit up to 3 individual and 3 group nominations.
Lifetime Achievement Award – individual (member)
Recognizes outstanding, long-term commitment to IAWP's objectives.
Retiree of the Year Award – individual (member)
Recognizes continued outstanding commitment to IAWP's objectives following retirement.
Ealton Nelson International Achievement Award – individual/group & chapter (non-US member)
Rerecognizes outstanding commitments to and achievements of IAWP's international development.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Trade Adjustment Assistance
President Obama signed into law a renewal of expanded Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program along with the South Korea, Panama and Colombia Free Trade Agreements. To help offset the cost of the TAA expansions three Unemployment Insurance (UI) integrity provisions were included.
The TAA program was expanded in the 2009 Recovery Act legislation, but the provisions expired at the beginning of 2011. The bill signed by the President retroactively and temporarily renews many of the Recovery Act TAA provisions through 2013, including extension of coverage to workers in the service industry and the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC). However, the law is not as expansive as the 2009 TAA reforms in several areas.
The TAA program was expanded in the 2009 Recovery Act legislation, but the provisions expired at the beginning of 2011. The bill signed by the President retroactively and temporarily renews many of the Recovery Act TAA provisions through 2013, including extension of coverage to workers in the service industry and the Health Coverage Tax Credit (HCTC). However, the law is not as expansive as the 2009 TAA reforms in several areas.
Monday, October 24, 2011
The House of Representatives passed legislation to provide occupational training to out-of-work veterans as a way to counter growing unemployment in their ranks. The measure passed, 418-6, under suspension of the rules, an expedited procedure requiring a two-thirds majority for passage.
The legislation, HR 2433, the Veterans Opportunity to Work Act of 2011, would allow 100,000 unemployed veterans ages 35 through 64 to apply for Montgomery GI Bill (PL 78-346) benefits. Eligible veterans could choose to enhance their skills with up to a year of training for high-demand fields such as information technology and health care.
The bill, sponsored by Florida Republican Jeff Miller, Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, would require participating veterans to submit a monthly certification of enrollment in a specific course. The assistance each month would be equal to the basic educational benefits provided under the Montgomery GI Bill — a maximum of $1,426 a month for 2011. Payments would be made from the Veterans Affairs (VA) Department’s readjustment benefits account.
Chairman Miller’s counterpart, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) has moved forward with a different bill (S 951), which is expected to reach the Senate floor this year. It would provide employment opportunities for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Both bills would require service members to take part in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) before returning to civilian status. The program, an interagency initiative coordinated by the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs, is currently mandatory for Marines only.
The legislation, HR 2433, the Veterans Opportunity to Work Act of 2011, would allow 100,000 unemployed veterans ages 35 through 64 to apply for Montgomery GI Bill (PL 78-346) benefits. Eligible veterans could choose to enhance their skills with up to a year of training for high-demand fields such as information technology and health care.
The bill, sponsored by Florida Republican Jeff Miller, Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, would require participating veterans to submit a monthly certification of enrollment in a specific course. The assistance each month would be equal to the basic educational benefits provided under the Montgomery GI Bill — a maximum of $1,426 a month for 2011. Payments would be made from the Veterans Affairs (VA) Department’s readjustment benefits account.
Chairman Miller’s counterpart, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) has moved forward with a different bill (S 951), which is expected to reach the Senate floor this year. It would provide employment opportunities for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Both bills would require service members to take part in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) before returning to civilian status. The program, an interagency initiative coordinated by the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs, is currently mandatory for Marines only.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Jobs Bill
The Senate Majority is considering alternatives to President Obama’s jobs bill. The Senate rejected the latest version of the bill last week and will likely consider elements of the $447 billion measure with an eye toward breaking it into smaller bills.
House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, (R-VA) said Tuesday it was time to put aside “political games” and “find areas of commonality.” He said the House also would seek to move smaller pieces of the proposal, but it is not clear if the Senate Majority plans to offset smaller packages of spending programs or tax cuts with revenue increases similar to the 5.6 percent surtax on household income above $1 million used to finance the larger bill.
House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, (R-VA) said Tuesday it was time to put aside “political games” and “find areas of commonality.” He said the House also would seek to move smaller pieces of the proposal, but it is not clear if the Senate Majority plans to offset smaller packages of spending programs or tax cuts with revenue increases similar to the 5.6 percent surtax on household income above $1 million used to finance the larger bill.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Although helping Americans with disabilities find work is a year-round focus, October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This is a national campaign that raises awareness about disability employment issues and validates the contributions of workers with disabilities.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month's roots go back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed, acknowledging the contributions of people with all forms of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to "National Disability Employment Awareness Month."
The theme for 2011is "Profit by Investing in Workers with Disabilities," which promotes the valuable contributions people with disabilities make to America's workplaces and economy.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month's roots go back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed, acknowledging the contributions of people with all forms of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to "National Disability Employment Awareness Month."
The theme for 2011is "Profit by Investing in Workers with Disabilities," which promotes the valuable contributions people with disabilities make to America's workplaces and economy.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Continuing Resolution
On October 4th, the House of Representatives approved a continuing resolution (H.R. 2608) to keep the federal government funded for the next six weeks. The legislation was needed because House and Senate appropriators have yet to finish work on the 12 regular appropriations bills for FY 2012. President Obama signed the continuing resolution into law late Tuesday night, keeping the government funded through November 18.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
UI Interest Payments Due
States that borrowed from the federal government to keep unemployment benefits flowing through the recession now have to start paying those loans back. Twenty seven states owe the federal government nearly $38 billion. The first interest payments on those loans were due last Friday and totaled about $1.1 billion.
Businesses pay two types of unemployment insurance taxes. A federal tax primarily covers the administrative cost of the program, and a state tax pays for the basic benefits that laid-off workers receive. In most of the states that borrowed from the federal government, the federal tax will increase by $21 per worker next year. Similar increases will take place in subsequent years until the loans are paid in full. Meanwhile, the state taxes have soared in just about every state to deal with the strain caused by the high numbers of people applying for unemployment benefits.
Businesses pay two types of unemployment insurance taxes. A federal tax primarily covers the administrative cost of the program, and a state tax pays for the basic benefits that laid-off workers receive. In most of the states that borrowed from the federal government, the federal tax will increase by $21 per worker next year. Similar increases will take place in subsequent years until the loans are paid in full. Meanwhile, the state taxes have soared in just about every state to deal with the strain caused by the high numbers of people applying for unemployment benefits.
Monday, October 3, 2011
New Year's Resolution?
Have you ever had a New Year's resolution? I have. This year started out for me with a personal family issue that made me stop and think about the things I was grateful for. This inspired me to start a "grateful" journal where I made the commitment to write something EVERY DAY I was grateful for. It's now 10 months later and I haven't missed a day writing in my journal. I wish I could say the same for the IAWP Blog I started with such great expectations of myself. Even though there hasn't been posts for a few months, I have been busy with IAWP activities. I am making another commitment to keep you all up-to-date starting now and continuing until July 2013, when my year as president will end. Be sure to look for posts regularly!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
St. Louis - Creative and Different
Just got back from a week in St. Louis attending the 98th International IAWP Educational Conference. The conference was terrific due to the hard work of Terri Pasternik, Local Arrangements Chair and Vicki Zimmerlee, Program Chair. Since Missouri does not have an active chapter, Terri and Vicki drafted volunteers from other state chapters to assist with the events. IAWP President Rich Vincent opened the session and ended it with his stewardship report. In between he was busy with IAWP business and handing the baton to incoming President, David Slimp. I was elected as President Elect, Ray Cabrera was elected as Vice President and Linda Barnes was elected as Secretary-Treasurer. They will be a good team to work with this next year.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Getting Ready
I have spent the last couple of weeks reviewing the Leadership Training that will be presented on Saturday, June 25th before the International Educational Conference Starts on Sunday. It's quite a lengthy project to update all the PowerPoint slides and make sure all the presenters give their input.
In addition, I am presenting a workshop on the changes to the membership and group and individual awards, so I have a double-whammy of presentations to get ready for.
The first presentation is less than 20 days away now! That's really a scary thought.
In addition, I am presenting a workshop on the changes to the membership and group and individual awards, so I have a double-whammy of presentations to get ready for.
The first presentation is less than 20 days away now! That's really a scary thought.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Terrible Tragedy
IAWP members have always actively participated in community service activities and events. I am especially proud of those times where we rallied around communities devastated by tragedy. I remember the events of many years ago in Idaho when several employees were killed when returning from an awards banquet. They were hit head on by a drunk driver and IAWP members "passed the hat" and raised money that was divided between the surviving family members. Now is a time to also help or neighbors in the southern states devastated by the terrible tornadoes. Please make contributions to the American Red Cross via http://www.redcross.org/ or call 1-800-REDCROSS to help.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Splitting the Difference
I finished splitting the WPDP History of Workforce Development module into 4 units. It's been quite a process since it also needed updating. Splitting into 4 units also required the revision of the exams and development of several questions. Just as I thought I was done, I realized I hadn't divided and updated the table of contents. That is now complete along with an explanation of the how version 5.0 came about.
I have moved on to the WPDP Labor Market Information guide and exams which Lorraine Faulds has already split and updated. I just need to add some formatting and again, update the table of contents and then we will be half way to the goal of dividing all four modules into 4 units each.
After the the Unemployment Insurance and Business & Job Seeker guides and exams are complete we will be ready to place the exams online.
I have moved on to the WPDP Labor Market Information guide and exams which Lorraine Faulds has already split and updated. I just need to add some formatting and again, update the table of contents and then we will be half way to the goal of dividing all four modules into 4 units each.
After the the Unemployment Insurance and Business & Job Seeker guides and exams are complete we will be ready to place the exams online.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
I Am Back
I have been on hiatus from the blog for the last two months. My mother became very ill in February and passed away in March. I am finally getting back into the grove again and discovering my "new normal."
I actually have been working on IAWP activities including finishing up the division of the WPDP History of Workforce Development study guide. The 100+ page study guide and 100 question exam has been being divided into 4 modules with corresponding 25 question exams. I am just about to finish the last exam now. I also took the opportunity to update the history, as it had been few years since the last update.
Once the History modules are complete I can start getting the exams placed on line. I am hoping to have all the study guides (History, Unemployment Insurance, Business and Job Seeker and Labor Market Information) finished up by mid year.
I actually have been working on IAWP activities including finishing up the division of the WPDP History of Workforce Development study guide. The 100+ page study guide and 100 question exam has been being divided into 4 modules with corresponding 25 question exams. I am just about to finish the last exam now. I also took the opportunity to update the history, as it had been few years since the last update.
Once the History modules are complete I can start getting the exams placed on line. I am hoping to have all the study guides (History, Unemployment Insurance, Business and Job Seeker and Labor Market Information) finished up by mid year.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Strategic Planning Update
Still working on the Strategic Plan. With the resignation of the President Elect, I needed to review what had been drafted and see if it was still appropriate. I believe I have somewhat finalized it until we have a new president elected and a new slate of officers in place. Since most of the Plan and associated strategies are items from past surveys, plans and ideas, I am hoping what we have drafted won't change much. I will keep you posted and if you have any ideas, please let me know.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Adult, Youth and Dislocated Workers Funding Cuts
Legislation on the House floor being debated this week to zero-out all new funding for Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Adult, Youth and Dislocated Workers formula grant programs until July, 2012. If this proposal becomes law, states would not receive their July, 2011 allotment and their advance appropriations in October, 2011. Please write your Congressional delegation urging their opposition to this draconian proposal.
Background
On February 11, 2011, the House Committee on Appropriations released a comprehensive list of spending cuts. These spending cuts are contained in H.R. 1, legislation to fund all Federal Agencies and Departments, other than Defense, until September 30, 2011, the end of the current fiscal year. It would do the following:
1. H.R. 1 would eliminate all new funding for WIA Adult, Youth and Dislocated Workers formula grants in program year 2011 (July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012).
2. H.R. 1 would eliminate funding states normally receive on July 1 (the beginning of the new Program Year) and eliminate the "Advance Appropriation" states normally receive on October 1 (the beginning of the 2012 Fiscal Year).
3. H.R. 1 would rescind $100 million in unobligated balances from the Dislocated Workers Assistance National Reserve for 2010 and rescind $65 million from Dislocated Workers Assistance State Grants. ($10 million would be rescinded for evaluation).
What You Can Do:
I encourage you to contact your Congressional delegation expressing opposition. Your message can be as follows:
• All funding for the Workforce Investment Act (Youth, Adult and Dislocated Worker programs) would be eliminated for Program Year 2011, threatening the existence of the publicly-funded workforce system.
• With the national unemployment rate still hovering around 9% and youth unemployment rates at an astounding 26.3% for youth ages 16-19 and 16.3% for youth ages 20-24, cuts to critical job training, education and skills programs only serve to further devastate efforts to put Americans, of all ages, back to work.
• Skill development and training is needed now more than ever! After the Great Recession, employers are beginning to hire workers, but often say they are unable to find workers with the appropriate skills match. Eliminating these programs will worsen this problem.
• Highlight the value of WIA programs in your state with specific examples.
Background
On February 11, 2011, the House Committee on Appropriations released a comprehensive list of spending cuts. These spending cuts are contained in H.R. 1, legislation to fund all Federal Agencies and Departments, other than Defense, until September 30, 2011, the end of the current fiscal year. It would do the following:
1. H.R. 1 would eliminate all new funding for WIA Adult, Youth and Dislocated Workers formula grants in program year 2011 (July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012).
2. H.R. 1 would eliminate funding states normally receive on July 1 (the beginning of the new Program Year) and eliminate the "Advance Appropriation" states normally receive on October 1 (the beginning of the 2012 Fiscal Year).
3. H.R. 1 would rescind $100 million in unobligated balances from the Dislocated Workers Assistance National Reserve for 2010 and rescind $65 million from Dislocated Workers Assistance State Grants. ($10 million would be rescinded for evaluation).
What You Can Do:
I encourage you to contact your Congressional delegation expressing opposition. Your message can be as follows:
• All funding for the Workforce Investment Act (Youth, Adult and Dislocated Worker programs) would be eliminated for Program Year 2011, threatening the existence of the publicly-funded workforce system.
• With the national unemployment rate still hovering around 9% and youth unemployment rates at an astounding 26.3% for youth ages 16-19 and 16.3% for youth ages 20-24, cuts to critical job training, education and skills programs only serve to further devastate efforts to put Americans, of all ages, back to work.
• Skill development and training is needed now more than ever! After the Great Recession, employers are beginning to hire workers, but often say they are unable to find workers with the appropriate skills match. Eliminating these programs will worsen this problem.
• Highlight the value of WIA programs in your state with specific examples.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Welcome New Workforce Administrators
I suggested we write letters welcoming new workforce system administrators. NASWA published the following list of new administrators. President Vincent will be sending them out shortly. If you live in one of these states, a personal contact about IAWP would be greatly appreciated.
Arizona - Peggy Feenan
California - Martin Morgenstern
Colorado - Ellen Golombek
Connecticut - Glenn Marshall
Georgia - Mark Butler
Hawaii - Dwight Takamine
Iowa - Teresa Wahlert
Kansas - Karin Brownlee (DOL)
Kansas - Pat George (Commerce)
Maine - John Dorrer
Minnesota - Mark Phillips
New Mexico - Celina Bussey
Ohio - Michael Colbert
Oklahoma - Richard McPherson
Pennsylvania - Patrick Beaty
Rhode Island - Charles Fogarty
Tennessee - Karla Davis
Vermont - Annie Noonan
Wisconsin - Manny Perez
Wyoming - Joan Evans
Arizona - Peggy Feenan
California - Martin Morgenstern
Colorado - Ellen Golombek
Connecticut - Glenn Marshall
Georgia - Mark Butler
Hawaii - Dwight Takamine
Iowa - Teresa Wahlert
Kansas - Karin Brownlee (DOL)
Kansas - Pat George (Commerce)
Maine - John Dorrer
Minnesota - Mark Phillips
New Mexico - Celina Bussey
Ohio - Michael Colbert
Oklahoma - Richard McPherson
Pennsylvania - Patrick Beaty
Rhode Island - Charles Fogarty
Tennessee - Karla Davis
Vermont - Annie Noonan
Wisconsin - Manny Perez
Wyoming - Joan Evans
Sunday, February 13, 2011
It's Been A While
Sorry for the lack of postings, but I have been tending to my mom who lives with me and is in failing health. I actually have been doing several things. I wrote an article for the Chapter Activity Countdown explaining the new individual and group awards which will come out in March after the 2010 awards are due. I made my plane reservations to fly to Frankfort, KY in March for awards judging.
I also have done some more work on the WPDP History of Workforce Development study guides. I have them divided in to 4 modules and have done a lot of research on bringing it up to date. Next is to send it to some WPDP masters for review, then I will be ready to develop the new test questions. I am still hopeful to get that accomplished by spring.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Finished Awards Criteria
FINALLY, I finished editing the needed handbook changes based on the proposed changes to the IAWP awards program. It's 30 pages in all, but I wanted the board of directors to see all the actual changes before they voted on them. I also did a one page summary, which I have included below. The board meets next week so I hope these changes will be finalized then and we can start sharing the information with chapters.
** Citation Award - individual & group (nonmember)
No change in the current criteria.
** Award of Merit - individual & group (member)
Expanded the current award criteria to include international outreach as the International Development Award has been consolidated into this award.
** Public Policy Award (member/nonmember)
Expanded the current award criteria to include workforce administrators as nominees as the Administrator Award has been consolidated into this award category. Also clarified that potential nominees can include elected officials and federal administrators. Updates to potential achievements were added.
** Workforce System Customer Service Award - individual and group (member/nonmember) This is a new award that consolidates the Specialized Customer Services, Service to Veterans, Unemployment Insurance, and One-Stop awards into one award category. Chapters can submit chapter-level specific customer service awards such as Veteran Awards, One-Stop Awards, UI Awards, etc. under this category. Chapters may submit up to 3 individual and 3 group nominations.
** Lifetime Achievement Award – individual (member)
No change in the current criteria.
** Retiree of the Year Award – individual (member)
No change in the current criteria.
** Ealton Nelson International Achievement Award – individual/group & chapter (non-US member) No change in the current criteria.
Additionally the following administrative changes are proposed:
• Allow award nominations to be e-mailed via a PDF file.
• Eliminate the requirement that awards be double spaced and in size 11 font or larger.
• Eliminate that a binder and tabbed dividers are required, but “encourage” their use.
• Allow a “designee” to sign the Standard Award Nomination Form if there is no chapter president.
• Eliminate the requirement that the Statement of Accomplishment begin and end on the second page.
• Eliminate the requirement that the narrative be 10 pages or less, but encourage that length.
• Eliminate the requirement that members of specific committees be assigned to judge certain awards.
• Eliminate all second place awards, but allow awarding honorable mention awards.
• Allow the option not to present an award if none are worthy.
** Citation Award - individual & group (nonmember)
No change in the current criteria.
** Award of Merit - individual & group (member)
Expanded the current award criteria to include international outreach as the International Development Award has been consolidated into this award.
** Public Policy Award (member/nonmember)
Expanded the current award criteria to include workforce administrators as nominees as the Administrator Award has been consolidated into this award category. Also clarified that potential nominees can include elected officials and federal administrators. Updates to potential achievements were added.
** Workforce System Customer Service Award - individual and group (member/nonmember) This is a new award that consolidates the Specialized Customer Services, Service to Veterans, Unemployment Insurance, and One-Stop awards into one award category. Chapters can submit chapter-level specific customer service awards such as Veteran Awards, One-Stop Awards, UI Awards, etc. under this category. Chapters may submit up to 3 individual and 3 group nominations.
** Lifetime Achievement Award – individual (member)
No change in the current criteria.
** Retiree of the Year Award – individual (member)
No change in the current criteria.
** Ealton Nelson International Achievement Award – individual/group & chapter (non-US member) No change in the current criteria.
Additionally the following administrative changes are proposed:
• Allow award nominations to be e-mailed via a PDF file.
• Eliminate the requirement that awards be double spaced and in size 11 font or larger.
• Eliminate that a binder and tabbed dividers are required, but “encourage” their use.
• Allow a “designee” to sign the Standard Award Nomination Form if there is no chapter president.
• Eliminate the requirement that the Statement of Accomplishment begin and end on the second page.
• Eliminate the requirement that the narrative be 10 pages or less, but encourage that length.
• Eliminate the requirement that members of specific committees be assigned to judge certain awards.
• Eliminate all second place awards, but allow awarding honorable mention awards.
• Allow the option not to present an award if none are worthy.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Award Criteria
I analyzed all the feedback I received from members on the proposed changes to the individual and group IAWP awards and incorporated some of the suggestions into what will be the final proposal to the executive board later this month. Most of the criteria is staying the same, however the new award - Workforce System Customer Service Award - needed criteria, so I gathered current criteria from the Veterans, Specialized Customers, and UI awards, to begin to form the criteria for this new award. Once I get it into a final format, I will share it on the blog for all to see.
I am also going to propose easing up on the stringent requirements on formatting, tabs, and such. I am also going to suggest that we allow award entries to be submitted via e-mail through a PDF file. And I also hope to put links to MS Word formatted "forms" on the IAWP Web site to make it easy to just open a blank document and start writing an award. Let me know what you think of these ideas.
I am also going to propose easing up on the stringent requirements on formatting, tabs, and such. I am also going to suggest that we allow award entries to be submitted via e-mail through a PDF file. And I also hope to put links to MS Word formatted "forms" on the IAWP Web site to make it easy to just open a blank document and start writing an award. Let me know what you think of these ideas.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Happy New Year
I hope everyone is having a happy and healthy beginning of 2011.
I have been continuing to receive feedback from members about the proposed redesign of the individual and group awards. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has taken the time to respond and give feedback. The final proposal will go to the executive board later this month.
I have also received feedback on the strategic planning elements I put together from other planning sessions over the past couple of years. I am hoping to have a preliminary draft of a plan to discuss with the officers when we meet at the IAWP Headquarters in March for the awards judging. Then hopefully we can present it to the incoming board in June for adoption.
I have been continuing to receive feedback from members about the proposed redesign of the individual and group awards. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has taken the time to respond and give feedback. The final proposal will go to the executive board later this month.
I have also received feedback on the strategic planning elements I put together from other planning sessions over the past couple of years. I am hoping to have a preliminary draft of a plan to discuss with the officers when we meet at the IAWP Headquarters in March for the awards judging. Then hopefully we can present it to the incoming board in June for adoption.
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