Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and Maggie Hassan have reintroduced the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act. This legislation aims to strengthen the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), a program designed to help disadvantaged individuals secure employment. The bill is supported by U.S. Representative Lloyd Smucker, who introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Dr. Cassidy emphasized the economic benefits of connecting employers with prospective employees struggling to find work, stating, “By helping employers connect with prospective employees struggling to find work, we boost the American economy and reduce the reliance on government assistance. It’s a win-win.”

Senator Hassan highlighted the importance of job access for all Americans: “Ensuring that every American has access to a good-paying job is critical to the success of our country and our local communities.”

Representative Smucker also expressed his support for WOTC as an effective anti-poverty measure: “The best anti-poverty program is a good job... WOTC is a bipartisan solution that every Member of Congress should support.”

The WOTC provides federal tax credits to employers who hire eligible veterans, SNAP recipients, individuals with disabilities, and long-term unemployed individuals. Employers face higher recruitment and training costs when hiring from these groups. The National Employment Opportunity Network reports that WOTC has saved federal governments approximately $202 billion over ten years.

The bill has garnered support from various organizations including Albertsons, American Health Care Association, National Restaurant Association, International Franchise Association, and many others.

Sean Kennedy from the National Restaurant Association commented on its potential impact: “We appreciate Sens. Cassidy and Hassan’s efforts to improve on WOTC as a tool for restaurant operators to hire needed staff.”

Stan Harris from the Louisiana Restaurant Association noted its significance for skill development: “Restaurants in Louisiana are not just places to enjoy great food; they are training grounds for skill development and second chances for many individuals facing employment barriers.”

Misty Chally from Critical Labor Coalition stressed modernizing WOTC due to current labor market challenges: “America’s workforce is facing a perfect storm... [the Act] will modernize WOTC to reflect today’s labor market realities.”

Christine Pollack from FMI praised Senators Cassidy and Hassan's efforts: "FMI is excited to work with Senators Cassidy and Hassan... on strengthening the path for veterans, SNAP participants... through enactment of this measure."

Mike Layman from International Franchise Association acknowledged its role in supporting franchise businesses: "IFA applauds Sens. Cassidy and Hassan for taking this important step."