Rep. Ryan Zinke, U.S. Representative for Montana's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Rep. Ryan Zinke, U.S. Representative for Montana's 1st District | Official U.S. House headshot
Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke has introduced a bipartisan bill to address the shortage of skilled workers in the housing sector. The legislation, named the Creating Opportunities for New Skills Training at Rural and Underserved Colleges and Trade Schools (CONSTRUCTS) Act, aims to create a grant program through the Department of Labor. This initiative seeks to train laborers needed for home construction by providing funds to trade schools, community colleges, and outreach programs in collaboration with local businesses. Senator Jackie Rosen from Nevada has introduced similar legislation in the Senate.
In 2024, housing costs reached unprecedented levels due to regulatory challenges, supply chain issues, worker shortages, and inadequate infrastructure. The National Association of Realtors recently ranked Montana as having the least affordable housing market in America.
“Owning a home is a part of the American dream that has become out of reach for too many in our country and especially in Montana,” stated Congressman Zinke. He emphasized that skilled labor shortages are reducing home construction, thus increasing existing home prices. “This legislation will support programs that train much-needed laborers which will benefit both the students who will learn skills that can earn them a stable income and the economy.”
Congressman Juan Ciscomani highlighted similar concerns: “In southern Arizona, and across the United States, there is a critical need for additional housing.” He pointed out how skilled worker shortages elevate construction costs and delay projects. “This bill will expand access to construction training programs...to make housing more affordable for everyone.”
Congressman Don Davis added that investing in education for construction-related skills would build a strong talent pipeline necessary for future workforce development.
Eugene Graf from E.G. Construction praised Zinke's efforts: “The bipartisan CONSTRUCTS Act championed by Rep. Zinke will provide meaningful investments...to encourage students to pursue careers in residential construction trades.”
Carl Harris from the National Association of Home Builders expressed support as well: “With the housing industry facing a severe labor shortage...the bipartisan and bicameral CONSTRUCTS Act will strengthen America’s workforce pipeline.”
Zinke has been active on housing issues since returning to Congress in 2022. His efforts include proposing legislative solutions such as a pilot program addressing rural rental costs within broader fiscal policy acts and co-sponsoring The HELPER Act aimed at aiding public servants with first-time home purchases.
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