The Iowa Senate passed the Future Ready Iowa Act on Monday, 47-0, sending the bill to Gov. Kim Reynolds, who has made the legislation a priority.

Future Ready Iowa is the governor’s plan to have 70 percent of Iowa workers complete education or training beyond high school by the year 2025.

“Our state is ahead of the curve for educating our children for the knowledge economy, and this piece of legislation will only strengthen the efforts already underway,” Reynolds said in a statement. 

“Future Ready Iowa is my No. 1 priority because it gives Iowans the opportunity to learn a high-demand skill and then not only get a job to pay the bills, but also a rewarding career,” Reynolds added. “That’s life-changing.”

“This act creates opportunities for Iowans of all ages and experiences,” Reynolds said. 

Financing for the $18 million program, which would provide a mix of apprenticeships, mentoring, internships and classes, is still pending lawmakers’ action on budget bills. 

The House passed the bill unanimously on March 13. Details of the bill signing will be released later. 

In related news, registration for the April 3 Future Ready Iowa Summit at the Iowa Events Center closes March 26. The cost is $50 but there is no charge for students. You can register online.