The Central Minnesota Joint Powers Board, Central Minnesota Workforce Development Board, and Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, Inc. Legislative Breakfast 2022

On December 9, 2022, Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, Inc. (CMJTS) held a legislative breakfast at River City Extreme in Monticello. Legislators had the opportunity to hear success stories from individuals who were or are still CMJTS program participants. The event highlighted four programs: business services, youth, public assistance, and WIOA adult. Legislators were also offered the chance to respond to questions sent to them before the breakfast.

Legislators in attendance included Senator Bruce Anderson, Representative Brian Johnson, Representative-elect Dawn Gillman, Rommel Lee from Senator Amy Klobuchar’s office, Jack Friebe from Congressman Pete Stauber’s office, and Stacy Morse from Congressman Tom Emmer’s office.

The first topic the legislators discussed was funding for PSEO students. The majority supported state and federal dollars to support PSEO and offer teacher incentives as a retention tool.

The second question addressed the childcare shortage and how that may impact parent students. As a state-based issue, Anderson and Johnson believe the regulations imposed upon childcare providers should be reviewed and some removed.

The third topic concerned providing financial aid to students seeking non-credentialed training. The majority agreed students need more options in their education paths without financial barriers. The cost per credit varies depending on the college or technical college.

Attendees also saw a video clip from Big Lake High School’s Apprenticeship Career Fair and Ridgewater College’s IGNITE Career Fair, where students could have hands-on experiences and learn about career opportunities, both events designed to bring career exploration to students.

To learn more about CMJTS programs and opportunities, visit www.cmjts.org.