Ohio State Governor Mike DeWine has reiterated opportunities for jobs in Ohio for immigrants and new Americans as he signed into law the House Bill, HB 4 which requires the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation to act as a liaison between the business community and the Department of Education or the Chancellor of Higher Education regarding industry-recognized credentials and certificate programs.

“We have opportunities, we welcome talents and people who want to work,” Governor Mike DeWine said.

The bipartisan bill sponsored by Representatives Tracy Richardson (R) and Phil Robinson (D) is aimed at making it easier for businesses interested in locating to Ohio – as well as those already here in Ohio – to get assistance with creating new job training certificates and industry – recognized credentials.

With the bill signed into law, the Governor’s Workforce Transformation office must accept inquiries from the business community about:

1. Industry-recognized credentials, approved by the committee established by the Superintendent of Public Instruction, in collaboration with the Office and representatives of business organizations, under continuing law:
2. Certificate programs and industry-recognized credentials included in the inventory created by the Chancellor under continuing law; and
3. Any other existing or proposed credential or certificate program that the Office determines is necessary to meet Ohio’s workforce needs.

Representative Tracy Richardson said, “these credentials and certificates specify the skills needed to meet the changing demands of businesses and make it possible for individuals to qualify for jobs.

House Bill 4 is one more way we’re working to keep and create jobs right here in Ohio, and to provide opportunities for Ohioans to receive the training they need to succeed.”

Rep. Phil Robinson (D-Solon) said, “in Northeast Ohio alone, there are more than 3,000 high paying trade and technical jobs currently available but unfulfilled. We need to connect businesses with hard working Ohioans and training programs for these middle-class pathway jobs in order to fulfill the Ohio promise of a better life.

HB 4 will help expand workforce training and certification development options for people looking for the American dream to make a better life for themselves and their children’s future.”