Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani has introduced a bipartisan and bicameral initiative aimed at addressing the shortage of skilled construction workers in the United States. The legislation, known as the Creating Opportunities for New Skills Training at Rural and Underserved Colleges and Trade Schools (CONSTRUCTS) Act (H.R. 10420), seeks to create a grant program that will fund residential construction education and certification programs at community colleges, junior colleges, and trade schools.

The effort is supported by Representatives Ryan Zinke, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, and Don Davis. A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Jacky Rosen and Marsha Blackburn.

"In southern Arizona, and across the United States, there is a critical need for additional housing,” said Congressman Ciscomani. He emphasized that the current shortage of skilled workers is driving up construction costs and causing project delays. The proposed bill aims to expand access to training programs, increase the workforce of skilled construction workers, support high-demand jobs for students, and ultimately make housing more affordable.

Congressman Zinke highlighted the impact of labor shortages on various industries, particularly in housing where it leads to fewer homes being built. "This legislation will support programs that train much-needed laborers which will benefit both the students who will learn skills that can earn them a stable income and the economy," he stated.

Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez pointed out that investing in career pathways for young people in trades would help accelerate residential construction. “It’s how we invest in our next generation, bring back prestige for the skilled trades, and support our rural timber economies,” she said.

Congressman Davis added that investing in education and skills training programs would create a robust talent pipeline necessary for developing tomorrow's workforce.

The legislation has received backing from industry associations such as the Southern Arizona Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). David Godlewski from Southern Arizona Home Builders Association commended Rep. Ciscomani's efforts to address labor shortages affecting home building projects. Carl Harris from NAHB also praised the introduction of this act as it addresses severe labor shortages impacting housing affordability through increased training opportunities.

Earlier this year, Congressman Ciscomani introduced another piece of legislation aimed at reducing construction time and costs for affordable housing by cutting red tape for developers. He also engaged with local stakeholders to discuss solutions to Arizona’s housing crisis through public-private partnerships.