Contact: Lindsey Ross, Senior Press Secretary
Lindsey.Ross@iga.in.gov
317-232-9498
STATEHOUSE (April 9, 2019) – A bill authored by State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) that would allow for the creation of an Industry Collaboration Organization (ICO) certificate recently passed the House Committee on Education unanimously.
Senate Bill 420 would allow qualifying organizations to receive an ICO certification through the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet. An ICO is a nonprofit organization that funds work-based learning and career coaching for students up to the age of 22.
“Right now, there are many high-paying jobs available in our workforce that require a certification, not a college degree, and employers are struggling to find employees with the necessary skills to fill the positions,” Raatz said. “By creating an ICO certification, these organizations could help Hoosiers get on a career path to success by providing them with certifications, career coaching and work ethic.”
Under the bill, to qualify for an ICO certification, an organization must be exempt from federal income taxes and conduct activities to enhance career and technical education as well as work-based learning opportunities for students.
SB 420 will now move to the full House of Representatives for consideration.
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For a high-resolution photo of Sen. Raatz, click here.
