This past week I watched, via my computer, the Higher Education, Lifelong Learning and Competitiveness subcommittee hearing on the reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act. That's a real mouthful; but, you should see the bill!

The Workforce Investment Act (WIA), authorized originally in 1998, has been up for reauthorization the last five congresses. Since the Democrats now control both houses of Congress and the White House, feelings are that something will happen this year (hopefully).

The committee heard from a panel who were witnesses from local WIBs, members of the Unions and the US Chamber of Commerce. Each was given (as most witnesses) a few minutes to make their case on what should be included in the new bill from their perspective. Afterwards, members of the House committee are given five minutes each to question the witnesses.

What amazed me was that no member of Congress, and there were about 15 or so who questioned the committee, had any questions for the representative from the US Chamber. What has been lacking, by all realistic accounts of WIA, is the involvement of the private sector; so, why not ask what their needs are? It makes you wonder what will be in the new bill.

What would you like to see in the new WIA bill, as a WLP professional? Now would be a good time to speak to your member of Congress about your firm's priorities in the legislation that will affect the public workforce system in the biggest way. Or, feel free to respond here with your thoughts on WIA reauthorization.

Would you like to meet with you member of Congress during ICE? Stay tuned for more information.