WASHINGTON, DC In an effort to improve career and technical education programs, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a member of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee was appointed to the Conference Committee negotiating the reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Technical Education Act. The Perkins Act provides individuals with career and technical education training opportunities to prepare students both for post-secondary education and the careers of their choice. In fiscal year 2006, Rhode Island is estimated to receive approximately $5.8 million in Perkins state grants. The Perkins Act is an investment in our future. It is a critical investment in vocational education programs and prepares students for high-skilled jobs. A highly-skilled workforce not only grows our economy, but maintains Americas competitive edge in the world, said Reed. This legislation is a significant step in ensuring that our students have access to high-quality, high-wage jobs. I am pleased to be a conferee on this bill and look forward to negotiating a strong final product that benefits Rhode Island and the nation. There are 10 regional education centers in Rhode Island that receive federal funding through the Perkins Act to provide equipment and resources for technical training programs. Local high schools and colleges also benefit from this federal funding. The Perkins Act benefits Rhode Island and students across the nation by helping to prepare our young people for the jobs of tomorrow, continued Reed. I have worked to expand and enhance Perkins career and technical education teacher preparation and professional development programs because I believe that well-trained and qualified teachers, principals, and faculty are the key for ensuring that students participating in career and technical education programs have the necessary skills and tools to compete in an ever-expanding global economy.As one of the conferees, Senator Reed will help negotiate the final language of the bill and resolve any differences between the House and Senate versions of the legislation.Once the Conference Committee agrees on a final version of the bill, the legislation must then be passed by the House of Representatives and the Senate and signed into law by the President.