ASA opposes proposed cuts to tech prep programs

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) wrote a letter to Rep. Harold Rogers, R-Ky., chairman of the House Appropriations Committee; and Rep. Norman D. Dicks, D-Wash., ranking member; urging them to reconsider the proposed career and technical education cuts within the proposed fiscal year 2011 Continuing Resolution appropriations bill, specifically those cuts to tech prep programs in the Perkins Career and Technical Education Act.

House Resolution 1 cuts funding for the Perkins Tech Prep program by $102.9 million and completely eliminates funding for the 2011-2012 school year, an 8 percent reduction in overall Perkins funds, and makes significant cuts throughout other education and work force development programs.

These programs are essential for vocational education and training for the automotive industry, and it would be a mistake for Congress to keep these specific cuts in the budget proposal, ASA said.

To view the letter, visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill.com.

For additional information about ASA, visit www.ASAshop.org.