Stabenow Career Counseling Legislation Signed into Law

Legislation championed by U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) to help school districts and community colleges hire more career counselors was signed into law today by President Trump. Stabenow’s bipartisan Careers Act passed as part of the reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act that passed unanimously out of the Senate.

Earlier this year, Congress passed a spending bill that included $1.2 billion for career and technical education. Stabenow’s legislation will allow school districts and community colleges to use some of this funding to recruit and retain career counselors who can put students on a path towards a rewarding career in manufacturing and the skilled trades as well as a four-year degree. 

“Too many students and parents in Michigan aren’t aware of opportunities for good paying jobs in the professional trades where you can graduate with no debt,” said Senator Stabenow. “Increasing the number of career counselors focused on the skilled trades will help to make sure all young people have the opportunity and skills they need to get a good-paying job.”

School counselors play an important role in exposing students and parents to a full range of career and postsecondary options. Unfortunately, many communities across the country lack the resources to adequately staff schools with experienced counselors who can help students reach their full potential. Michigan has the third-worst student-to-counselor ratio in the country at 729 to 1. The recommended average is 250 to 1.

The Careers Act is part of the Senator’s New Skills for New Jobs agenda, which focuses on expanding career paths for every young person and filling the demand of Michigan businesses who are ready to hire.