Criminal Reform Bill That Includes Vocational Training May Still Be Alive
President Trump is pushing to keep bipartisan criminal justice reform that includes provisions to address the construction industry’s labor shortages alive in the Senate. The bipartisan FIRST STEP Act (H.R. 5682) passed the House earlier this year and includes vocational training and would seem to complement President Trump’s workforce development initiative while providing individuals with an opportunity for a second chance at a career and future. However, the legislation is considered controversial due to other provisions that are not related to workforce training.
The current stall is thought to be related to multiple versions of bill language in the Senate where there is a discussion regarding possible changes that could garner more support from Senators. However, limited time remains to get the bill across the finish line.
The bill passed the house with 360 votes and its supporters include support from people on both political sides. President Trump has voiced public support of the legislation.