Washington, DC — Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-06) and Burgess Owens (UT-04) are introducing H.R. 8304, the Credential Repositories and Transparency in States (CREATES) Act, which will help states build and maintain their own public credential repositories or registries to connect people with opportunities and good jobs. The bill seeks to bring clarity to a system that has become increasingly fragmented, where students, families, workers, and employers struggle to navigate and understand the hundreds of thousands of degrees, certificates, and training programs that are available in the United States.
The CREATES Act builds on existing workforce development efforts, including the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), as well as prior legislation introduced by Rep. McBath such as the Youth Workforce Readiness Act, the Adult Education WORKS Act, and the TRAIN Act. Together, these efforts reflect a broader push to modernize workforce systems and ensure that individuals can make informed decisions about their education and career pathways.
“It has become far too difficult, confusing, and expensive for everyday Americans to obtain the skills they need to provide a decent life for themselves and their families.,” said Rep. McBath. “In today’s economy, a credential should open doors, not create confusion. The CREATES Act will bring transparency and accountability to a system that hasn’t kept pace with the needs of workers or employers. By investing in accessible data, we can make it easier for employers to find skilled workers, help workers identify what credentials they need to show proficiency in a given topic, and help students and families better understand what degree or credential is best for them before making major decisions about their future we can.”
“Too many Americans are navigating a confusing and costly credentialing system without an understanding on what actually leads to good-paying jobs. The CREATES Act brings transparency and accountability to the marketplace by helping states build tools that connect workers, students, and employers with the information they need to succeed. I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort with my friend, Rep. McBath, to strengthen our workforce, expand opportunity, and ensure Americans can make informed decisions about their education and careers. We do not have time to waste,” said Rep. Owens.
The bill establishes a grant program allowing states to receive up to $5 million over three years to develop centralized, transparent credential data repositories through the Department of Labor. These tools would help users compare credentials across programs, regions, and outcomes. Building on a recent $15 million Department of Labor initiative supporting state talent marketplaces and credential registries, the CREATES Act would make it easier for employers to find skilled workers, help individuals understand which credentials demonstrate proficiency, and give students and families clearer guidance as they make major education and career decisions.
This legislation is endorsed by Credential Engine, National Skills Coalition, America Forward, Jobs for the Future, National Association of Development Organization (NADO), Commercial Vehicle Training Association (CVTA), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), National Youth Employment Coalition, and YouthBuild Global.