Green collar jobs and clean energy investments focus of PA Rescue Plan hearing

PHILADELPHIA, May 10 – House Democratic Leader Joanna McClinton today hosted a public hearing highlighting her caucus’s proposal to invest federal funding to help Pennsylvania recover, restore and reimagine, starting with investments in green collar jobs.

The House Democratic Policy Committee hearing, held at the Community College of Philadelphia, focused on investments in clean energy and how the proposed $50 million investment would get Pennsylvanians back to work in jobs that pay livable wages.

The committee heard testimony from: Dr. Donald Guy Generals, president, Community College of Philadelphia; Michael Neill, apprentice training director, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 98; Brian Myers, assistant apprentice training director, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 98; and Anna Shipp, executive director, Green Stormwater Infrastructure Partners, Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia.

“Green collar jobs are high-tech, high-wage and the fastest-growing career sector in any industry,” said McClinton, D-Phila./Delaware. “By investing in the clean energy industry and supporting job training to get workers on the job, the PA Rescue Plan is creating a greener future in more ways than one.” 

State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, chairman of the Policy Committee added, “The last year doesn’t have to cripple our future. We can use federal dollars to help make Pennsylvania a leader in creating green collar jobs. Labor unions are ready to train the workers of tomorrow, and if we can invest in helping start careers, we can really kickstart our economy for a brighter future.”

Currently, interest outweighs capacity for apprenticeship programs, as evidenced by testimony stating 1,200 applicants were received for 50 openings with the IBEW Local 98.

Philadelphia Delegation Chairman Jason Dawkins said he is interested in the next frontier for green energy development in the city. The answer, according to IBEW Local 98 – micro grids which are said to increase to an $18 billion industry by 2040.

The committee will continue to host hearings across the state throughout the week, highlighting the PA Rescue Plan. The PA Rescue Plan aims to ensure federal American Rescue Plan funding is invested for immediate impact and long-term success. Additional information about the plan is available at www.pahouse.com/parescueplan.