Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Iowa business group wants Legislature to address workforce issues

The Iowa Chamber Alliance says it wants that state’s legislature to focus on programs that lead to more highly skilled workers.

The Alliance discussed its 2015 legislative priorities on Wednesday. Executive director John Steinman says they’re focusing this legislative session on workforce issues. Steinman says business owners throughout Iowa are concerned they won’t be able to hire the workers they need.

"When we talk to employers across the state, big communities, small communities, all around the state, we’re hearing that there’s a strong concern about being able to hire qualified workers, that there’s not necessarily enough available workers. We see those as short-term issues, as well as a troubling long-term issue."

Steinman says there should be support for programs that prepare students for the workforce, as well as programs that address a skills gap. The Alliance wants a comprehensive study done of Iowa’s workforce.

The Iowa Chamber Alliance also wants lawmakers to examine the state's tax competitiveness, lower corporate and individual income taxes, and make the state's tax system more easily understood.

The Iowa Legislature returns to session January 12th.