Last week Governor Baker signed the 2022 state budget, which included $150,000 in funding for workforce development and career technical education initiatives within the recreational boating industry. This funding will continue the progress the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association (MMTA) has made to meet the workforce challenges within the industry.
“The boating industry plays a vital role in supporting the economy of the Commonwealth, while providing thousands of jobs for residents throughout the state,” said Senator Michael Moore (D-Millbury). “I am glad that I was able to work with my colleagues to include funding for the Massachusetts Marine Trade Association as they look to bolster the workforce and support the industry as a whole.”
The funds were originally introduced via Budget Amendments sponsored in the House by Representative William Straus of the 10th Bristol District and in the Senate by Senator Patrick O’Connor of the Plymouth & Norfolk District. Senator Moore joined many of his colleagues in the House and Senate as a co-sponsor of this amendment.
The recreational boating industry in Massachusetts has an economic impact of $4.4 billion dollars and employs over 20,000 men and women in Massachusetts. The industry is currently facing a substantial workforce shortage both in Massachusetts and on a national level. Here in Massachusetts, there are hundreds—if not thousands—of jobs currently available. The aim of this amendment is to help to continue the MMTA in their efforts to improve the workforce situation in the Commonwealth.
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