The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry is backing a modification to the state’s Fast Track program which would help more adults get a college education or advanced job training.
Championed by the Missouri Chamber, Fast Track was passed into law in 2019. The financial aid program addresses workforce needs by encouraging adults to pursue a certificate, degree or apprenticeship in a job field designated as high need.
Senate Bill 1056, sponsored by Sen. Rusty Black (R-Chillicothe), would allow more Missourians to qualify for the grant. The bill increases the maximum gross income for Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant eligibility from $80,000 to $100,000 for taxpayers who are married, filing jointly and from $40,000 to $50,000 for all other taxpayers. The amounts would be adjusted annually based on inflation.
Kara Corches, vice president of governmental affairs for the Missouri Chamber, testified in favor of the proposed changes, citing the program’s successful track record.
“The top programs are health care, business accounting, computer science and education. Health care is obviously a huge need for the state, so it’s great to see the utilization in that area,” Corches said. “Beyond the certificates or degrees, this program is also applicable to apprenticeships, which we’re very supportive of, so individuals can earn as they learn.”
Sen. Black presented the bill to the Senate Select Committee on Empowering Missouri Parents and Children, along with supporters from the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, Missouri Community College Association, Independent Colleges and Universities of Missouri and the Missouri Ambulance Association.
This modification to the Fast Track program is currently moving through the legislature via several different vehicles. HB 2278, sponsored by Rep. Dane Diehl (R-Butler), was voted out of committee this week. The language was also added to HB 1569, sponsored by Rep. Ann Kelley (R-Lamar), which passed the House and is awaiting action in the Senate.
For more information, contact Corches at kcorches@mochamber.com or (573) 634-3511. To learn more about Fast Track and the eligibility requirements, visit mofasttrack.com.
