Bill > S3355

This bill, the Telecommunications Skilled Workforce Act, aims to address the workforce needs of the telecommunications industry. It directs the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman, to convene an interagency working group to develop recommendations on how to address the industry's workforce needs, including identifying any federal laws, policies, or practices that may inhibit institutions of higher education or businesses from establishing or expanding programs to address these needs. The bill also requires the Secretary, in consultation with the FCC Chairman, to issue guidance to states on how they can utilize federal resources and promote recruitment for industry-led workforce development programs. Additionally, the bill directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to assess the number of skilled telecommunications workers needed to build and maintain broadband infrastructure in rural areas and 5G wireless infrastructure.