SE North Carolina News

Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) has introduced a new bill aimed at providing greater flexibility for workers' education. The legislation, known as the Flexibility for Workers Education Act, seeks to modify the Fair Labor Standards Act to allow employers to offer voluntary growth and development opportunities to their employees without counting towards hours worked.

S. 2878, as the bill is officially known, would enable employers to provide education and training programs outside of work hours that are directly related to an employee's job. By removing the requirement for these educational activities to be counted as working hours, the bill aims to support workers' career growth and development.

Senator Budd's proposal has garnered bipartisan support, with Senators Mike Braun (R-IN) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) also sponsoring the bill. In the House of Representatives, the companion bill is led by Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA).

The Flexibility for Workers Education Act has gained the support of the International Franchise Association, showcasing its potential impact on small businesses and workers across the country.

"At a time when small business owners across our state are struggling to find qualified candidates, now is the time to cut the burdensome red tape that has stifled the upward mobility of thousands of workers," said Senator Budd. "I'm proud to put forward a proposal that supports access to innovative education options, skills development tools, and career growth."

The full text of the bill can be accessed here.

For more information about the Flexibility for Workers Education Act, please visit the official Congress website.