Committee lays over bill funding Steele County workforce services after testimony from Workforce Development, Inc.

The committee heard House File 2390, which would appropriate funds to keep Workforce Development, Inc.’s Steele County office operating and providing career‑planning, employer services, and training pathways.

Ginny Rittman, executive director of Workforce Development, Inc., told members the organization serves a 10‑county southeast Minnesota region and in the current biennium served over 300 adult career seekers, 400 employers and over 300 customers in roughly 18 months. She described a partnership called “Steel Co Works” that coordinates employer connections, internships and tours for local high school students. Testimony emphasized manufacturing as a primary regional employer and the need to shore up training and wraparound supports to meet employer demand.

A program participant, Shaylee Gates, described her experience entering the program with no clear employment path, completing two community‑college credentials, and becoming a career planner with the organization. Representative Rick Sexton, the bill’s sponsor, said the appropriation would sustain the program’s gains and help a light‑manufacturing hub in his district continue to attract labor.

Committee action

Representative Sexton moved to lay House File 2390 over for further consideration. The committee laid the bill over.