HB 5491, An Act Concerning Centralization Of Workforce Development Information

TESTIMONY OF THE CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
SUBMITTED TO THE LABOR AND PUBLIC EMPLOYEES COMMITTEE

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning HB 5491, An Act Concerning Centralization Of Workforce Development Information.  

Connecticut hospitals make our state stronger by delivering nationally recognized, world-class care, supporting jobs and economic growth, and serving communities across Connecticut.  Every day, hospitals improve access, affordability, and health equity — providing care to all patients regardless of ability to pay.  At the same time, hospitals invest in their workforce and local communities, even as they navigate significant financial and federal challenges.

HB 5491 directs the labor commissioner to create an informational web page that will serve as a central repository of information for job training, career counseling, and workforce development organizations; regional sector partnerships; and other opportunities and topics relevant to workforce development.

Connecticut hospitals are actively advancing strategies to strengthen workforce resilience, recruitment, and retention.  These efforts include reviewing financial incentives, creating clear pathways for career advancement, and supporting continuing education.  Hospitals are also partnering with colleges and technical schools to align curriculum and training with evolving healthcare needs, while expanding clinical placement opportunities to support hands-on learning and workforce readiness. 

The legislation is aligned with a recommendation in the 2024 and 2025 Comptroller Healthcare Cabinet reports, which CHA supported, that called for the creation of a centralized “clearinghouse” for state initiatives and programs.  As the report outlines, the intent of the clearinghouse would be to serve as a one stop resource for information on all state programs available for healthcare careers.  

We support the intent of this bill to make job training and other workforce opportunities more visible to the public and believe it could benefit the healthcare sector.  CHA supports the concept of a centralized resource, regardless of which state agency ultimately houses or administers the resource.

Thank you for your consideration of our position.  For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7301.