The House Primary and Secondary Education Committee unanimously approved State Rep. Nick Santucci's (R-Howland Twp.) Community Connectors Workforce Program setting up the legislation for a vote by all House members.

The program seeks to encourage young adults and students to work and create an emphasis on soft skill training in Ohio high schools.

"Nearly every business owner I talk to tells me the same thing: they need help finding qualified workers," Santucci said. "This legislation can help provide skills to the next generation of young Ohioans as they prepare to enter the workforce while also meeting the needs of employers."

Santucci's legislation will help prepare students for available jobs to meet the needs of industry employers. Through the process, businesses and other employers are connected to students to gain professional work experience, internships and receive career mentorship in an effort to bridge workforce shortages with individuals seeking work.

The legislation will next head to the House floor for a full vote.