House passes essential skills education bill

As Kentucky employers continue to struggle to find qualified workers to fill jobs in the state, a bill to ensure students learn essential skills passed through the House with a 72-21 vote Thursday.

House Bill 454, sponsored by House Majority Floor Leader Jonathan Shell, would ensure a local school district provide essential skills education to students and require it for graduation.

Essential skills include the ability to communicate, work well on a team, show up regularly and on time for work, handle conflict, pass a drug test and other traits. The bill passed through committee earlier this week.

House Bill 454 now heads to the Senate to be heard in committee.