James Comer (R-KY) - Staff & Office

House Education and Workforce Committee

Hearing Recap: “Building an AI-Ready America”

Today, the Education and Workforce Committee held the first <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412984">hearing</a> in a series examining how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is impacting the workforce, job training, and education.    <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/walberg_ai_opening_statement.pdf">Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI)</a> started the hearing by highlighting how AI is already impacting today’s world.  “AI tools are already helping teachers reduce administrative burdens, better personalize learning, and free up more time to engage directly with students. For workers, AI can help build new skills, increase efficiency, and accelerate on-the-job learning. As a result, employers can expect productivity gains that contribute to economic growth,” he said.   <img alt="" height="333" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/076758f8-ead7-d944-6073-f7fe0b40d2c0.jpg" width="500" /> Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) asked <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/adeel_khan_testimony_final.pdf">Mr. Adeel Khan, Founder & CEO of MagicSchool AI</a>, about how to protect students’ data as well as how to ensure they are still able to think critically when using AI. “We believe…that if a student isn’t introduced to generative AI in a school building, they will inevitability be introduced to generative AI in a different way…I think everyone in this room would agree that you’d prefer the first time a child interacts with generative AI it’s under the guidance of a teacher who’s teaching them about how it works, [and] the risks and benefits of using generative AI,” Mr. Khan explained.    <img alt="" height="333" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/707298fa-6735-7445-99a1-8683e5563233.jpg" width="500" /> Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA) asked how AI is addressing the issue of affordability. “The University of Texas at Houston Health System used AI to predict when folks were going to miss their appointments. They saved $250,000 in one quarter. Many Americans can’t afford health care—we should be exploring…how we can automate and improve scribing and so many activities that increase our medical costs,” said <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/kevin_frazier_testimony_final.pdf">Mr. Kevin Frazier, AI Innovation & Law Fellow at the University of Texas Law School</a>.   <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/chaya_nayak_testimony_final.pdf">Ms. Chaya Nayak, Head of Certifications and Jobs Platform, Open AI</a>, told Rep. Bob Onder (R-MO) the benefits they are seeing in classrooms that use AI. “A study from Harvard University found that a physics class that had a tailored curriculum that was focused on using ChatGPT…doubled [student] engagement and actually improved their problem-solving skills,” she said.   <img alt="" height="333" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/992283a8-de3c-7dcc-8e65-58c9b82cad82.jpg" width="500" /> Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL) asked Ms. Nayak how AI can be used to help train workers for the modern workforce rather than displace them. “What we are doing is providing a foundation of certifications, we’re partnering with governments, we’re partnering with employers to think about how those certifications can enter into their workflow…[and] lead to jobs,” Ms. Nayak explained.  <img alt="" height="333" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/3f73ac06-b639-0ba2-4cd9-37ffb0e71d70.jpg" width="500" /> Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) asked how AI can help students with disabilities. “When AI is informed with the needs of the child…the interaction they have with the technology can be even more personalized to the needs that they have,” explained Mr. Khan. Bottom line: Committee Republicans are looking at ways AI can expand opportunity, productivity, and skills training while setting clear expectations for safety, privacy, and accountability.

3 weeks ago | 2 sources

House Education and Workforce Committee

Chairman Walberg Attends Signing of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act

<div> <div> <div> <div>Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) issued the following statement after President Trump signed <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/222/text" target="_blank">S.222, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025</a>, into law: </div> “This notion that whole milk consumption is linked to childhood obesity is deeply flawed. In fact, many school children are at risk of dairy underconsumption—not overconsumption. Whole milk is a preferred choice that provides essential nutrients that support healthy growth and developing minds. I’m glad to see this administration taking steps to align nutrition standards with what modern science and research clearly show.”</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ### </div> </div> </div>

3 weeks ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Walberg Holds First Hearing in AI Series

<div>Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) delivered the following statement, as prepared for delivery, at the first <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412984" target="_blank" title="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412984">hearing</a> in a series examining artificial intelligence, titled "Building an AI-Ready America": "Artificial intelligence is scaling rapidly, and as a result, it is increasingly shaping how we learn, how we work, and how we prepare for the future. Today’s hearing examines AI and its growing role in education, workforce development, and the future of work. "Artificial intelligence is often described as a sudden disruption, but many of its underlying technologies have existed for decades. What has changed is the scale and accessibility of these tools. Rapid advancements have made AI systems easier to use and more widely available—reaching classrooms, workforce training programs, and workplaces across the country. "AI’s potential benefits are significant. AI tools are already helping teachers reduce administrative burdens, better personalize learning, and free up more time to engage directly with students. For workers, AI can help build new skills, increase efficiency, and accelerate on-the-job learning. As a result, employers can expect productivity gains that contribute to economic growth. An estimated 40 percent of GDP could be significantly affected by generative AI, which could mean a permanent increase in economic activity. "That said, AI growth is not without challenges. Models can make mistakes. In education, that raises concerns about academic integrity and overreliance. In the workforce, early evidence suggests AI may change how tasks are performed, particularly for entry-level roles, which underscores the need for strong pathways into the labor market and strong skills development. It is also important to recognize that many labor laws and regulations have not kept pace with how quickly work is changing, and they too often make it harder for businesses to offer benefits and flexibility.  "With the rapid pace of technological change, workers are seeking greater freedom and flexibility in how they work. This highlights the need for clearer standards for independent work and more flexible benefit models that better serve a modern, mobile workforce. Today, more than 70 million workers operate as self-employed independent contractors, yet the federal government too often does not provide the statutory clarity that these workers need and deserve. In our current age of rapid technological growth, including AI-related development, our policies must adapt to the growing role of independent work.  "As this Committee considers AI, we must recognize that many existing education and workforce policies were designed for a different era. The goal should not be to rush into sweeping new rules and regulations, but to ensure schools, employers, and training providers can keep pace with innovation while maintaining trust and prioritizing safety and privacy. "U.S. leadership in AI is pivotal to the nation’s economic success and security. The Trump administration understands that this leadership requires an AI-ready workforce supported by strong classroom instruction and on-the-job learning that make the most of cutting-edge technology.   "Today we have the opportunity to better understand how AI is being and could be used in education and workforce systems, where it is delivering value, and where challenges remain."</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ### </div>

3 weeks ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

"Building an AI-Ready America"

2261 Rayburn Office Building <a href="https://youtube.com/live/RM0aq5ynUiQ?feature=share">Watch</a>

3 weeks ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Chairman Walberg Backs Bills to Protect Paychecks, Expand Skills, and Support Families

Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) spoke on the House Floor in support of <a href="https://republicans-edlabor.house.gov/UploadedFiles/1.8.26_Empowering_Workers_Through_Flexibility_and_Opportunity.pdf" target="_blank">three bills</a> that protect workers’ earnings, expand access to job training, and support working families—without adding unnecessary government barriers. The legislation includes <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2312/text">H.R. 2312, Tipped Employee Protection Act</a>; <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2262/text">H.R. 2262, Flexibility for Workers Education Act</a>; and <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2270/text" target="_blank">H.R. 2270, </a><a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2270/text">Empowering Employer Child and Elder Care Solutions Act</a>.    <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLG3ThCYdjs" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="281" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/images/52c3ae8d-9f4d-971d-9b95-83161bc23c8b.jpg" width="500" /></a></div> Chairman Walberg on H.R. 2312, <a href="https://republicans-edlabor.house.gov/UploadedFiles/Walberg_H.R._2312_Floor_Remarks_.pdf">Tipped Employee Protection Act</a>, authored by Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR): “Like many of my colleagues, I want to see Americans rewarded for their hard work and ensure they are paid what they earn. That’s why I am proud to rise in support of H.R. 2312, the Tipped Employee Protection Act, which creates stability for tipped workers and preserves opportunities for them to earn a good wage. “The bill creates a clear, common-sense definition of a tipped worker and prevents future attempts by misguided, activist judges and bureaucrats seeking to implement policies that hurt workers’ bottom lines…H.R. 2312 puts more money back in workers’ pockets and eases the burden on employers by removing needless federal regulations.” <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://youtu.be/3_1_d7EEyYg" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="281" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/images/8fcde4c5-b26f-0800-a63a-90173d2fd217.jpg" width="500" /></a></div> Chairman Walberg on H.R. 2262, <a href="https://republicans-edlabor.house.gov/UploadedFiles/Walberg_H.R._2262_Floor_Remarks.pdf">Flexibility for Workers Education Act</a>, authored by Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA): “[H.R. 2262] is a common-sense bill that makes it easier for a business to offer voluntary upskilling opportunities to its employees. As our nation faces a widening skills gap and millions of unfilled jobs, H.R. 2262 would provide additional pathways for workers to pursue trainings and fill a growing number of jobs that require skilled workers.  “As Chairman of the Education and Workforce Committee, I am committed to cutting red tape and removing roadblocks that make it harder for workers and businesses to succeed. The Flexibility for Workers Education Act is another strong step toward ensuring Washington doesn’t put up roadblocks that hinder progress in our workforce.” <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qS2y9cM4ug" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="281" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/images/54eaba69-5dbb-4efe-bc7f-17d7a6240cd7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div> Chairman Walberg on H.R. 2270, <a href="https://republicans-edlabor.house.gov/UploadedFiles/Walberg_H.R._2270_Floor_Remarks.pdf">Empowering Employer Child and Elder Care Solutions Act</a>, authored by Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN): “Across this country, millions of Americans are doing two full-time jobs at once. They are employees striving to be productive and dependable at work, and they are caregivers—parents of young children, sons and daughters caring for aging parents, or both. These responsibilities do not disappear when the workday begins. They shape whether a worker can show up on time, stay focused, or remain in the workforce at all. “The Empowering Employer Child and Elder Care Solutions Act removes this longstanding obstacle for employers wishing to provide these highly valued accommodations to their workforce…sends a clear message: we value work, we value family, and we understand that the two are deeply connected.”   ###

3 weeks, 1 day ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Hearing Recap: “Who’s Watching the Kids? How Employers, Innovators, and Parents Are Solving America’s Child Care Crunch”

Today, the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education held a <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412973">hearing</a>  to examine how the private sector is playing an important role in addressing the cost and availability of child care.  <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/os_kiley.pdf">Subcommittee Chairman Kevin Kiley (R-CA)</a> opened the hearing by discussing how public-private approaches are key to increasing access to affordable child care.  <img alt="" height="333" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/143e7dc3-1d98-f5f4-9516-45b55a1d3bec.jpg" width="500" /> “Employer engagement is a critical leg in the three-part support system holding up our child care market: families, government, and employers each play a role…CCDBG and private-sector innovation should be partners in meeting the child care needs of America’s workforce,” he said.  Witnesses highlighted the importance of employer-based tax credits such as 45F—which was significantly expanded under the Working Families Tax Cuts that was signed into law in July. <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/haden_polseno-hensley_written_testimony.pdf">Mr. Haden Polseno-Hensley, President and Co-Founder at Red Rooster Coffee Company, LLC</a>, explained how child care facilities benefit children as well as employees. “One benefit that is less quantifiable is the increased level of community in our company, including the relationships between the children that have attended Yellow Hen together. The children are bonded together in a uniquely strong fashion, and adding to that bond, our employees know each other’s children, which creates a fraternal feeling that is hard to replicate,” he said. <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="333" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/84f4dce2-9153-abc8-b7f8-2a6fa9c409fe.jpg" width="500" /></div> In an exchange with Rep. Mike Rulli (R-OH), <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/alex_grover_written_testimony.pdf">Ms. Alex Grover, CEO at i2M</a>, discussed ways Congress can help employers provide child care as an employee benefit. “[Congress should] keep the definitions flexible so private business can be creative… there isn’t a one-size-fits all approach to child care. Employers who really understand their workforce understand the demographics and understand the needs are very well suited to help define that,” she said. <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="333" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/93793595-c8d4-1180-7a81-b777d76858be.jpg" width="500" /></div> In other words, Congress needs to cut the red tape so the private sector can innovate.  <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/uploadedfiles/mary_lou_burke_afonso_written_testimony.pdf">Ms. Mary Lou Burke Afonso, COO at Bright Horizons</a>, explained to Rep. James Moylan (R-GU) how child care is helping businesses retain talented workers and maintain a strong workforce. “Right now, so many people are delaying when they have children and what that means is [businesses] have a talented, educated workforce that might make the choice to go out of the workforce if there isn’t child care for them,” she said. <div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" height="320" src="https://mcusercontent.com/242c4a1c0560b7d513ce7962f/_compresseds/c82fc6ae-c5c4-0225-ba9d-fa0861aac5a5.jpg" width="500" /> </div> <div><a href="https://x.com/EdWorkforceCmte/status/2011133643972874573">Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN)</a> asked about how employer-sponsored child care helps increase slots rather than re-allocating existing spots. “[Employers] can actually come in and add supply to a community that otherwise relieves supply at community-based centers. We also have employers that actually open up some of their available slots to the community. In addition, we work with partners to do some training…and that training is accessible…to employees in the greater community in the workforce of child care,” Ms. Burke Afonso explained. Bottom line: Making child care more affordable is essential to helping parents work, businesses grow, and local economies thrive—and it is best achieved through flexible partnerships, not one-size-fits-all federal mandates.</div>

3 weeks, 1 day ago | 2 sources

House Education and Workforce Committee

What They’re Saying: @EdWorkforceCmte’s Bills that Deliver for America’s Workers

The House will vote on three bills that modernize our nation’s labor laws so they better reflect how Americans work today—protecting earnings, expanding opportunity, and supporting working families without adding unnecessary government barriers. These bills also support small businesses and meet the needs of the workforce. Here’s what they are saying about <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BILLS-119hr2262rh/pdf/BILLS-119hr2262rh.pdf__;!!BSgrhSFG!BBQYUAQEljARguUNql8N4P3fhMO4ezrtTdxdzsDKuWbvpuDS_i8zZz_dZl-cWjSeztVi0aJYPdoLJJZUh5Um0i7ZngQKdQ0MGCROzw$" title="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BILLS-119hr2262rh/pdf/BILLS-119hr2262rh.pdf__;!!BSgrhSFG!BBQYUAQEljARguUNql8N4P3fhMO4ezrtTdxdzsDKuWbvpuDS_i8zZz_dZl-cWjSeztVi0aJYPdoLJJZUh5Um0i7ZngQKdQ0MGCROzw$">H.R. 2262</a>, Flexibility for Workers Education Act, authored by Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA): “The legislation maintains strong worker protections—participation in these training opportunities would be entirely voluntary, occur outside of work hours, and could not involve productive work for the employer. Removing this regulatory hurdle would expand access to employer-sponsored education, making it easier for workers to develop the skills necessary for higher-paying jobs and career advancement.” – Sam Caucci, Founder & CEO, 1Huddle “Most notably for franchise businesses, the Flexibility for Workers Education Act will allow businesses to offer voluntary training outside of work hours without that training counting towards employees’ hours worked. By cutting red tape, this legislation makes it easier for businesses to encourage upward mobility and accelerate employees’ growth with access to innovative education and skills development opportunities.” – Michael Layman, Chief Advocacy Officer, International Franchise Association “Employers have millions of unfilled positions because they cannot find qualified workers. In its most recent April 2025 survey, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) found that 87% of small business owners hiring or trying to hire reported few or no qualified applicants for available positions. If employers could train their current employees, they could expand their pool of qualified workers. However, federal law discourages employers from investing in training programs for employees.” – Patrice Onwuka, Director, Center for Economic Opportunity, Independent Women Here’s what they are saying about <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BILLS-119hr2270rh/pdf/BILLS-119hr2270rh.pdf__;!!BSgrhSFG!BBQYUAQEljARguUNql8N4P3fhMO4ezrtTdxdzsDKuWbvpuDS_i8zZz_dZl-cWjSeztVi0aJYPdoLJJZUh5Um0i7ZngQKdQ0_eh5Gyg$" title="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BILLS-119hr2270rh/pdf/BILLS-119hr2270rh.pdf__;!!BSgrhSFG!BBQYUAQEljARguUNql8N4P3fhMO4ezrtTdxdzsDKuWbvpuDS_i8zZz_dZl-cWjSeztVi0aJYPdoLJJZUh5Um0i7ZngQKdQ0_eh5Gyg$">H.R. 2270</a>, Empowering Employer Child and Elder Care Solutions Act, authored by Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN): “Many families today struggle to find affordable, reliable, and high-quality child care. Policies should make it easier, not harder, for employers to offer these benefits to working parents on a voluntary basis. The Empowering Employer Child and Elder Care Solutions Act acknowledges this challenge and seeks to alleviate the cost and regulatory burden on employers who wish to provide child and dependent care assistance.” – Heather Madden, Policy Staff Director, Independent Women’s Voice “A competitive job market demands equally competitive benefits. As organizations face labor shortages, those that modernize their total compensation and benefits packages with creative, forward-thinking offerings are better positioned to attract and retain talent. SHRM believes public policy should support employers in these efforts. H.R. 2270 represents meaningful progress by encouraging employers to offer onsite or subsidized dependent care benefits through statutory recognition that such benefits are excluded from the 'regular rate' calculation under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).” – Emily M. Dickens, Chief Administrative Officer, SHRM Here’s what they are saying about <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BILLS-119hr2312rh/pdf/BILLS-119hr2312rh.pdf__;!!BSgrhSFG!BBQYUAQEljARguUNql8N4P3fhMO4ezrtTdxdzsDKuWbvpuDS_i8zZz_dZl-cWjSeztVi0aJYPdoLJJZUh5Um0i7ZngQKdQ0kV0b3lw$" title="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BILLS-119hr2312rh/pdf/BILLS-119hr2312rh.pdf__;!!BSgrhSFG!BBQYUAQEljARguUNql8N4P3fhMO4ezrtTdxdzsDKuWbvpuDS_i8zZz_dZl-cWjSeztVi0aJYPdoLJJZUh5Um0i7ZngQKdQ0kV0b3lw$">H.R. 2312</a>, Tipped Employee Protection Act, authored by Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR): “In order for America’s workers and business entrepreneurs to succeed in the 21st century, Congress must prioritize reforms that let Americans chase opportunity rather than permission…H.R. 2312, the Tipped Employee Protection Act, which ensures restaurants can properly compensate tipped employees for non-tipped work activities…would create significant new opportunities and flexibility for the American workforce, allowing businesses and workers to create mutually beneficial arrangements.” – Austen Bannan, Employment Fellow, Americans for Prosperity “The Act safeguards tipped workers’ wages by preserving the current tipped wage formula. Under the FLSA, tipped employees must earn at least the federal minimum wage through a combination of their employer-paid base wage of $2.13 and their tips. If tips fail to meet the minimum wage threshold, employers must pay the difference. Moreover, the bill upholds states’ authority to set higher minimum wages than the federal standard.” – Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association “The Tipped Employee Protection Act would codify a more explicit definition of 'tipped employee' by removing interpretive language such as 'customarily' and 'regularly' from the FLSA’s current definition.” – Manufacturers' Agents Association for the Foodservice Industry (MAFSI) “The Tipped Employee Protection Act strengthens wage protections for tipped workers while reducing compliance challenges for employers. We urge your support for this important legislation.” – National Ready Mixed Concrete Association “The undersigned organizations write to urge your support of the Tipped Employee Protection Act (H.R. 2312), which would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) to clarify the definition of 'tipped employee,' strengthen wage protections for tipped workers, and provide additional clarity as to which workers fall under this category.” – National Restaurant Association “The bill would also prevent regulators from imposing arbitrary limits on the hours or duties a tipped employee may perform. Together, these provisions create a more stable compliance environment for employers and make it easier to classify workers accurately as tipped employees.” – National Retail Federation

3 weeks, 1 day ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Walberg to Hold First Hearing in AI Series — Tomorrow 10:15 AM

Tomorrow, at 10:15 a.m., the Committee on Education and Workforce, chaired by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), will hold the first <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412984" target="_blank">hearing</a> in a series examining artificial intelligence, titled “Building an AI-Ready America.” What: Full Committee hearing titled “Building an AI-Ready America” When: 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026   Where: 2175 Rayburn House Office Building Witnesses: <ul> <li>Ms. Chaya Nayak, Head of Certifications and Jobs Platform, OpenAI</li> <li>Mr. Adeel Khan, Founder & CEO, MagicSchool AI</li> <li>Ms. Alexandra Reeve Givens, President & CEO, Center for Democracy & Technology</li> <li>Mr. Kevin Frazier, AI Innovation & Law Fellow, University of Texas Law School</li> </ul> Press: The hearing is open to the press and will be live-streamed on the <a href="https://youtube.com/live/RM0aq5ynUiQ?feature=share" target="_blank">Committee’s YouTube page</a>.

3 weeks, 1 day ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

“Who’s Watching the Kids? How Employers, Innovators, and Parents Are Solving America’s Child Care Crunch”

2175 Rayburn Office Building <a href="https://youtube.com/live/vKUDUzuz6uc?feature=share">Watch</a>

3 weeks, 1 day ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Kiley Holds Hearing on Child Care

<div style="text-align: left;">Today, Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee Chairman Kevin Kiley (R-CA) delivered the following statement, as prepared for delivery, at a <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412973" target="_blank" title="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412973">hearing</a> titled "Who's Watching the Kids? How Employers, Innovators, and Parents Are Solving America’s Child Care Crunch": "Over the summer, this Subcommittee held a hearing on why child care is essential to helping working parents thrive and local economies grow. We focused on the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), the primary federal program supporting child care programs for low-income working families. CCDBG exists to help working parents access affordable child care so they can stay in the workforce and pursue economic opportunities. At that hearing, we heard from witnesses about the importance of preserving parental choice while giving value and dignity to working parents. "But CCDBG reaches only a small fraction of families who need care. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families reports that CCDBG serves roughly 1.5 million children. Meanwhile, the National Center for Education Statistics estimates there are about 12.6 million children who have nonparental care arrangements during the week. That gap makes clear that alongside federal and state spending, private-sector employers have an important role to play in addressing the cost and availability of child care for the national workforce. "We also examined the high cost of child care. The national average is $13,128 annually, and while recent unprecedented federal spending in the child care sector may have propped up providers for a short time, it has not solved the long-term challenges of affordability for families or sustainability for providers. "That is why we heard strong agreement that meaningful progress requires a public-private approach. Employer engagement is a critical leg in the three-part support system holding up our child care market: families, government, and employers each play a role. Today, we will hear from three companies whose innovation is delivering real results—helping families, strengthening their workforce, and supporting the communities where they operate. "CCDBG and private-sector innovation should be partners in meeting the child care needs of America’s workforce. CCDBG helps ensure a supply of high-quality licensed providers that families can access. Employer investment can strengthen the stability of those providers and ease child care pressures across communities. We’ll discuss both of those dynamics today. "At the same time, protecting the integrity of child care funding is essential because families depend on it. When bad actors exploit the system, scarce resources are diverted away from the parents and children these programs are meant to serve. "CCDBG, while vital, cannot shoulder the full burden of America’s child care needs alone. It is part of a broader support system that thrives when public funds are safeguarded and private innovation steps in to fill the gaps. "Employers who invest in child care are demonstrating what long-term commitment can look like—not because government funding is guaranteed forever, but because supporting child care strengthens their workforce, improves productivity, and fuels local economic growth. Their examples show what is possible when innovation and responsibility meet—and why we should not allow fraud or mismanagement to undermine solutions that working families urgently need."  </div> <div style="text-align: center;">###</div>

3 weeks, 1 day ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Kiley to Hold Hearing on Child Care — Tomorrow at 10:15 AM

Tomorrow, at 10:15 a.m., the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, chaired by Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA), will hold a <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412973" target="_blank">hearing</a> titled "Who's Watching the Kids? How Employers, Innovators, and Parents Are Solving America’s Child Care Crunch." What: Subcommittee hearing titled "Who’s Watching the Kids? How Employers, Innovators, and Parents Are Solving America’s Child Care Crunch"   When: 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026   Where: 2175 Rayburn House Office Building Witnesses: <ul> <li>Mr. Haden Polseno-Hensley, President and Co-Founder, Red Rooster Coffee Company, LLC</li> <li>Ms. Alex Grover, CEO, i2M </li> <li>Ms. Amy K. Matsui, Vice President for Child Care & Income Security, National Women’s Law Center </li> <li>Ms. Mary Lou Burke Afonso, COO, Bright Horizons </li> </ul> Press: The hearing is open to the press and will be live-streamed on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/vKUDUzuz6uc" target="_blank">Committee’s YouTube page</a>.

3 weeks, 2 days ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Chairman Walberg Statement on December Jobs Report

<div>Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) released the following statement in response to the Department of Labor’s December jobs report: "Today’s job report once again shows how Republican policies are strengthening job creators, empowering the workforce, and fostering sustained economic growth. While December’s job growth is encouraging, we’re not done until costs come down even further for working families. Congressional Republicans and the Trump administration are working tirelessly to ensure the economy is improving on both fronts."</div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ###</div>

3 weeks, 5 days ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

@EdWorkforceCmte Protects Pregnant Students and Combats Human Trafficking

<div>Today, the Education and Workforce Committee passed two bills: H.R. 6359 protects pregnant students’ right to pursue an education and H.R. 4307 gives Department of Labor (DOL) staff better tools to spot human trafficking and help stop exploitation.   Following the markup, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) said: “Too often, pregnant students are forced to make an impossible decision: terminate a pregnancy to remain in school, or face reprisals and repercussions for carrying a baby to term. Many schools fail to provide women with the basic support needed to have a healthy pregnancy while in school, adding stress to the lives of expecting mothers instead of alleviating it. Expecting mothers have every right to pursue a high-quality education. I’m proud to support Rep. Hinson’s bill to ensure pregnant students are informed and protected as they further their education.   “The Committee also passed my bipartisan bill to address the scourge of human trafficking. The Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act equips DOL staff with the tools and knowledge needed to detect and confront human trafficking and protect vulnerable people, including women and children, being exploited. In other words, it turns DOL employees into an early warning system against human trafficking. I was proud to introduce this bill with Rep. McBath as Congress works to end the sick crime of human trafficking.”   H.R. 6359, <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6359?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22hr+6359%22%7D&s=4&r=1">Pregnant Students’ Rights Act</a>, authored by Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA): <ul> <li>Requires schools to provide a list of on-campus and community resources at least once a year and accommodations to help pregnant students carry and care for a baby as a condition of receiving student aid.</li> <li>Requires schools to inform pregnant students of how to file Title IX complaints if their rights were violated.</li> </ul>   H.R. 4307, <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4307?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22hr+4307%22%7D&s=2&r=1">Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act</a>, authored by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI): <ul> <li>Ensures DOL staff are equipped with sufficient tools and resources to report labor or sexual exploitation.</li> <li>Establishes a clear framework for DOL employees to assist law enforcement in preventing labor or sexual exploitation.</li> <li>Promotes DOL transparency and congressional oversight regarding DOL detection and response to human trafficking. </li> </ul> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"> ### </div>

3 weeks, 6 days ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

H.R. 6359, H.R. 4307

2175 Rayburn Office Building <a href="https://youtube.com/live/qIDgJMCjr38?feature=share">Watch</a> Opening Statement: <ul> <li><a href="https://republicans-edlabor.house.gov/UploadedFiles/1.8.26_Walberg_Opening_Statement_Markup.pdf">Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI)</a> </li> </ul> Agenda: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6359/text/ih">H.R. 6359</a>, Pregnant Students’ Rights Act</li> <ul> <li><a href="https://republicans-edlabor.house.gov/UploadedFiles/ANS_02_xml.pdf">ANS</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4307/text">H.R. 4307</a>, Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking </li> <ul> <li><a href="https://republicans-edlabor.house.gov/UploadedFiles/HR4307ANS_01_xml.pdf">ANS</a></li> </ul> </ul> Amendments and Motions Offered: <table align="left" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="874"> <tbody> <tr> <td colspan="5" style="width: 874px;"> <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/6359/text/ih/">H.R. 6359</a>, Pregnant Students’ Right Act </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> VOTE ORDER </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> AMENDMENT HOLC ID </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> OFFERED BY </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> MOTION/ACTION </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> VOTE TOTAL </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> 1 </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-6359-B001278-Amdt-1.pdf">BONAMICI_AMD_01</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Suzanne Bonamici </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Recorded Vote </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> 13Y – 21N </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> 2 </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-6359-S001215-Amdt-2.pdf">STEVENS_AMD_03</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Haley Stevens </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Recorded Vote </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> 15Y – 21N </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> 3 </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-6359-L000602-Amdt-3.pdf">LEE_AMD_02</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Summer Lee </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Recorded Vote </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> 15Y – 21N </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> 4 </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-6359-O000173-Amdt-4.pdf">OMAR_AMD_05</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Ilhan Omar </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Recorded Vote </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> 15Y – 21N </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> 5 </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-6359-W000808-Amdt-5.pdf">WILSON_AMD_04</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Frederica Wilson </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Recorded Vote </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> 15Y – 21N </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> Voice </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-HR6359-M001211-Amdt-1.pdf">ANS</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Mary Miller </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Voice </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> Voice </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> 6 </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> Final Passage </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Ashley Hinson </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Motion to Report bill, as amended </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> 21Y – 15N </td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="5" style="width: 874px;"> <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4307/text">H.R. 4307</a>, Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> VOTE ORDER </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> AMENDMENT HOLC ID </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> OFFERED BY </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> MOTION/ACTION </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> VOTE TOTAL </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> N/A </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-4307-D000623-Amdt-1.pdf">AMD_02_2026</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Mark DeSaulnier </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Offered and Withdrawn </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> N/A </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> N/A </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-4307-A000370-Amdt-2.pdf">AMDMNC_02_2026</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Rep. Alma Adams </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Offered and Withdrawn </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> N/A </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> Voice </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> <a href="https://docs.house.gov/meetings/ED/ED00/20260108/118812/BILLS-119-HR4307-W000798-Amdt-1.pdf">ANS</a> </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Chairman Tim Walberg </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Voice </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> Voice </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 164px;"> 7 </td> <td style="width: 214px;"> Final Passage </td> <td style="width: 125px;"> Chairman Tim Walberg </td> <td style="width: 161px;"> Motion to Report bill, as amended </td> <td style="width: 210px;"> 36Y – 0N </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Additional Items: <ul> <li> <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=412996">@EdWorkforceCmte Protects Pregnant Students and Combats Human Trafficking</a><a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=412996"></a></li> </ul> <div> </div>

3 weeks, 6 days ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Chair Walberg Opening Statement at Markup to Protect Pregnant Students and Combat Human Trafficking

<div> <div>Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) delivered the following statement, as prepared for delivery, at a <a href="https://edworkforce.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=412974" target="_blank">markup</a> of two bills to protect pregnant students and combat human trafficking: "Today, the Committee will mark up two important pieces of legislation.  "The first is H.R. 6359, the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act, which addresses a simple but serious problem: too many pregnant students don’t know what help is available to them.  "Under Title IX, pregnant students are entitled to reasonable accommodations, such as excused absences for medical appointments and childbirth. But too often students are given incorrect or incomplete information regarding their rights.  "The Pregnant Students’ Rights Act would change this. It requires colleges and universities to clearly inform students of their rights under Title IX and to provide a list of on-campus and community resources that can help an expectant mother through pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting—without forcing her to put her education on hold.  "It also explains how students can file a complaint with the Department of Education or the student’s school if she believes she has been discriminated against due to her pregnancy.  "Colleges and universities have a responsibility to ensure every pregnant student feels supported in continuing her education.  "With less than a month until the annual March for Life in our nation’s capital, I’m proud to lead this Committee in supporting pregnant students and their children.  "I’d like to thank the sponsor of the bill, Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA), for her leadership on this issue for the third Congress.  "The second bill before us is H.R. 4307, the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act. This bipartisan bill, authored by me and Congresswoman Lucy McBath, will strengthen the Department of Labor’s (DOL) ability to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable adults and children.  "Specifically, it ensures DOL enforcement personnel are trained to recognize the signs of trafficking, have the tools they need to detect forced labor and sexual exploitation during workplace investigations, and have a clear process for coordinating with law enforcement. It also requires an annual report to Congress, helping guide the Committee’s oversight and strengthen future enforcement efforts." </div> <div style="text-align: center;">###</div> </div>

4 weeks ago

House Education and Workforce Committee

Walberg Applauds New Dietary Guidelines

<div>Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) issued the following statement on the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: “The Dietary Guidelines for Americans don’t just advise families on healthy choices—they directly shape federal nutrition programs, including school meals and the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Our Committee has seen firsthand how flawed guidance can fail our children, which is why we’ve advanced legislation to give nutrition programs greater flexibility, including the option to serve whole milk. I’m pleased to see this administration following the science—nutritious foods are vital to child development and long-term health.” </div> <div style="text-align: center;">###</div>

4 weeks ago | 2 sources

House Education and Workforce Committee

"Modernizing Retirement Policy for Today’s Workforce"

2175 Rayburn Office Building <a href="https://youtube.com/live/t2ukEhdyfwY?feature=share">Watch</a>

4 weeks ago

Auctoritas