Bolstering Workforce Development Through Education Savings Incentives
HARRISBURG – State Reps. Kristin Marcell (R-Bucks) and Paul Friel’s (D-Chester) legislation to expand the 529 TAP Tax Credit, House Bill 1745, passed unanimously in the House of Representatives. The bill expands the tax credit to encourage workforce development and ease the financial burden of higher education for Pennsylvania families.
House Bill 1745 offers a compelling incentive for employers to support their employees’ aspirations for higher education by contributing to their 529 college savings accounts. This initiative will remove barriers to educational accessibility and affordability.
"Addressing the skills gap and strengthening our workforce starts with access to education," stated Marcell. "By encouraging employers to invest in their employees’ futures, House Bill1745 not only supports Pennsylvania families but also contributes to building a more skilled and educated workforce."
“We need new, creative solutions to help families afford a college education for their students, and for the Commonwealth to invest in our workforce – looping employers into the tuition savings process will help facilitate both,” Friel said. “Rep. Marcell and I may be on opposite sides of the political aisle, but we readily set aside our differences to create this effective solution for the people we serve.”
The PA 529 program, known for its flexibility and growing popularity, offers two savings plan options to cover various educational expenses, laying a strong foundation for the initiative. House Bill 1745 underscores the importance of workforce development in sustaining economic growth and competitiveness.
As prime sponsors of this bipartisan legislation, Marcell and Friel are committed to bridging political divides to create effective solutions that enhance workforce readiness and support the Commonwealth’s economic vitality.
The passage of House Bill 1745 marks a significant step forward in ensuring Pennsylvania’s workforce remains robust and competitive, ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Representative Kristin Marcell
178th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Will Patterson
267-688-2590
wpatterson@pahousegop.com
RepMarcell.com /
Facebook.com/RepMarcell