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LABI-Sponsored BayouWorks Bill Heads to Senate

 

A key piece of LABI’s workforce agenda has moved decisively through the House, passing 91–0 without debate and now heading to the Senate.

HB 549 by Rep. Stephanie Berault (R–Slidell) marks a major employer-driven effort to close persistent skills gaps and expand opportunity for Louisiana workers. The bill previously advanced through House Labor and House Appropriations before clearing the full House with unanimous support, signaling strong bipartisan alignment around strengthening the state’s talent pipeline.

This legislation creates the Bayou Growth Opportunity Workforce Program (BayouWorks), a targeted initiative designed to align training investments with real employer demand and accelerate pathways into high-growth, high-wage careers.

With labor force participation continuing to lag the national average and employers across sectors reporting ongoing difficulty finding qualified workers, addressing that disconnect has been a central focus of LABI’s long-term economic strategy, including its Program of Work and the LA Driven strategic plan.

HB 549 represents a shift from planning to implementation—advancing a more responsive, employer-led approach to workforce development. By directly connecting employers, training providers, and job seekers, BayouWorks is designed to speed up skills acquisition in high-demand fields and improve alignment between training programs and real job opportunities.

Specifically, the program would:

  • Support targeted, employer-led workforce training investments
  • Expand access to skills training tied to in-demand careers
  • Help more Louisianans transition into higher-paying jobs more quickly

For Louisiana to remain competitive in attracting jobs and investment, strengthening the talent pipeline is essential. HB 549 is intended to help close the gap between available jobs and available skills—an imbalance that continues to constrain growth for employers, workers, and the broader economy.

Learn more about the proposed BayouWorks program, including employer participation details and requirements, HERE.