Massachusetts Marine Trades Association workforce solutions amendment passes

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker signed the 2022 state budget, which included $150,000 in funding for workforce development and career technical education initiatives within the recreational boating industry. This funding will continue the progress the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association (MMTA) has made to meet the workforce challenges within the industry.

The funds were introduced via Budget Amendments sponsored in the House by Representative William Straus of the 10th Bristol District and in the Senate by Senator Patrick O’Connor of the Plymouth & Norfolk District, joined in leadership by Representative Susan Gifford and Senator Joseph Boncore, the four Co-Chairs of the 60-plus member Legislative Boating Caucus.

The recreational boating industry in Massachusetts has an economic impact of $4.4 billion dollars and employs over 20,000 men and women in Massachusetts. The industry is currently facing a substantial workforce shortage both in Massachusetts and on a national level.