On Tuesday, the House Labor and Industry Committee took up bills to promote prescription drug addiction education, S.B. 147, and modernize Pennsylvania’s apprenticeship and training programs, H.B. 536.

Senate Bill 147 would encourage prescription drug addiction education and awareness within the workforce by incentivizing employers to offer additional education to workers.  Employers who form safety committees to educate employees on various aspects of workplace safety, the risk of prescription drug abuse and addiction, can qualify for discounted workers’ compensation insurance rates under the program.  Following Committee approval, the bill was unanimously passed by the House and sent to the governor who is expected to sign the legislation.

House Bill 536 will increase access to apprenticeship programs across the commonwealth, recognizing in code that the apprenticeship model is an important component to addressing workforce challenges and enhancing individuals’ employability.  After a party-line amendment vote, the bill was passed over and is expected to  be discussed further throughout the summer.

The PA Chamber supported both bills.