July 29, 2025
Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania (for himself and Ms. Bonamici) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce
To amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to raise public awareness for skilled trade programs, and for other purposes.
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Creating Opportunities to Thrive and Advance Act
or the COTA Act
.
Sec. 2. Career guidance and public awareness for skilled trade programs
Section 223(a)(2) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3303(a)(2)) is amended—
(1)
by redesignating subparagraph (M) as subparagraph (O); and
(2)
by inserting after subparagraph (L) the following:
(M)
Providing guidance on career options in high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations in current or emerging professions (including skilled trades).
(N)
Raising public awareness and conducting public service announcements about career and technical education programs and community-based organizations, including through social media campaigns and other endeavors, focused on programs that prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations in current or emerging professions (including skilled trades).