State Senator Bill Beagle
Senate Provides Funds for Job Training, Workforce Development 

COLUMBUS– The Ohio Senate today passed Senate Bill 1, sponsored by State Senator Bill Beagle (R–Tipp City), which aims at helping Ohio’s unemployed and underemployed find work through continued education and job training. 

The bill, which Senator Beagle jointly sponsored with State Senator Troy Balderson (R–Zanesville), authorizes a revolving fund, which will provide loans to Ohioans who need additional job training. The loans will be distributed through public and private colleges, universities, and career centers. 

“Over the past few years, my work in the Statehouse has revolved almost exclusively around stabilizing Ohio’s economy and providing jobs to those who need them most,” said Beagle. “Senate Bill 1 is the next step in making that goal a reality.” 

Beagle’s plan ensures that priority status is given to schools and career centers that leverage close ties with area businesses. This relationship will help shape the curriculum in a way that prepares graduates for open job opportunities, thus facilitating quick job placement. 

“This legislation is designed to address both the critical skills gap that persists within our workforce today, as well as the financial roadblocks that many prospective workers face when seeking to better their employment situation,” added Beagle” 

The program will be funded using $25 million in existing revenue from casino licensure fees. Each institution can apply for up to $100,000 and loan up to $10,000 per student, annually. 

The bill will now move to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration. 

Senator Bill Beagle serves the people of Ohio’s 5th Senate District, which includes Miami and Preble Counties as well as portions of Montgomery and Darke Counties. He presides as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Workforce & Economic Development. Learn more at www.OhioSenate.gov/Beagle.