AUGUSTA - A law sponsored by Rep. Kristen Cloutier, D-Lewiston, to bolster Maine's workforce education and training programs, has been implemented by the Maine Department of Education (MDOE) to fund eight "Strengthening Maine Workforce" projects across the state.
LD 1684 established a statewide competitive grant process that is providing $3.2 million in funding to adult education programs. The law, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, created worksite-based, vocation-specific English language acquisition and job skills training programs designed to meet employers' specific workforce needs.
"The success of Maines businesses depends upon the caliber and skills of our workforce," said Cloutier. "Funding this new initiative will strengthen Maines workforce, and will help our state and local economies grow, innovate and thrive."
Expanding adult language education was identified as the most immediate priority in the Governor's Office of Policy, Innovation and the Futures Supporting Maines Foreign-Trained Professionals report in April 2020.
Cloutier is serving her second term in the Maine House and represents District 60, part of the City of Lewiston. She sits on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Cloutier], c. 305-965-2744