Talk Radio News Service: News, Politics, Media

By: Antonia Aguilar - University of New Mexico/Talk Radio News Service

U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Hilda Solis testified before the House Education and Labor Committee on Wednesday to defend her department's 2011 budget as well as outline future strategies for improving the job market and strengthening the economy.

“We know that we need to help small businesses, invest in our country’s infrastructure, and promote growth in our clean energy economy,” said Solis, who stressed the importance of President Barack Obama's small business lending program. Solis echoed the President's call for Congress to pass a jobs bill with emphasis on investment in clean energy as well as road, bridge and rail projects.

Solis also outlined her department's agenda for improving and creating jobs which include improving working conditions that ensure better safety and health regulations. Another priority will be better training and education for green jobs.

In addition, Solis said that the DOL will seek the re-authorization of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), which Solis said will help “promote innovation in the public workforce system, build on its strengths, and address challenges.”