NFIB State Director Leah Long today thanked the Louisiana Legislature for reaching final agreement on House Bill 549, legislation creating the Bayou Growth Opportunity Workforce Program, also known as BayouWorks.

The measure, sponsored by Rep. Stephanie Berault of Slidell, gives Louisiana employers a new tool to train workers quickly and effectively.

It awards competitive grants to businesses that partner with qualified training providers to build skills, boost productivity, and retain employees. Training programs must last no longer than six months and result in an industry-recognized credential. Awards are capped at $2,000 per employee or apprentice.

“Finding and keeping skilled workers is one of the biggest challenges small business owners face every day,” Long said. “BayouWorks gives employers a real solution. It puts training dollars to work quickly, focuses on skills that matter to employers, and helps small businesses build the workforce they need to grow and compete.”

Long said the program was designed with small businesses in mind. Local workforce development boards will work directly with employers to identify skills gaps and connect them with the right training resources. If federal or other funding is available to cover training costs, those resources must be used first, helping state dollars go further.

Eligible expenses include classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and wage reimbursement. The program also supports internships and apprenticeships, helping businesses develop the next generation of skilled workers.

Long thanked Representative Berault for sponsoring the bill and urged Gov. Jeff Landry to sign it.

“When small businesses can train the workers they need right here at home, everyone wins,” Long said. “Workers get better jobs, businesses grow, and Louisiana’s economy gets stronger.”

BayouWorks will be administered by Louisiana Works, which will coordinate with workforce development boards across the state and conduct outreach to ensure employers know about the program. Evaluation criteria and reporting requirements must be in place by July 1, 2028.