Overview
Title
An Act To amend and reauthorize the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
ELI5 AI
The bill aims to make sure people have better chances to learn new skills and find jobs by updating some old rules and giving more money for job training. It also tries to make sure schools and businesses work together more closely so people learn what they need for real jobs.
Summary AI
The bill, H.R. 6655, known as the “A Stronger Workforce for America Act,” aims to update and extend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. It proposes changes to improve workforce development activities, including the establishment of a performance accountability system and new funding measures. The bill seeks to enhance collaboration between educational institutions and employers, promote skills training aligned with market demand, and expand job opportunities for individuals. Various sections address adult education, literacy, job corps, national programs, and reentry employment opportunities.
Published
Keywords AI
Sources
Bill Statistics
Size
Language
Complexity
AnalysisAI
The "A Stronger Workforce for America Act" is a recently introduced bill meant to amend and reauthorize the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. This bill aims to enhance workforce development programs across the United States by implementing various changes, such as updating terminology, bolstering skills training initiatives, and enhancing accountability systems. It introduces several reforms intended to streamline and modernize employment services, encourage skill-based hiring, and improve job readiness among various demographic groups, including youth and those involved with the justice system.
Significant Issues
A noteworthy issue with the bill is its introduction of vague or undefined terms and classifications that might lead to inconsistent interpretations. For example, the replacement of terms like "out-of-school youth" with "opportunity youth" and "English language learners" with "English learners" could cause misunderstandings or variations in policymaking if these new terms are not clearly defined. Such changes might affect the program's targeted demographic outcomes, causing confusion about eligibility and program objectives.
The bill also gives considerable authority to state governors to reserve and reallocate funds, including the creation of a Critical Industry Skills Fund. Without explicit criteria and oversight mechanisms, this discretion could result in potential favoritism or misuse of funds. The absence of detailed guidelines poses a risk of inefficient resource allocation, further complicated by the lack of performance metrics to measure the success of funded initiatives.
There are concerns about the requirement for small businesses to share costs in employer-directed skills development programs. Such requirements may dissuade smaller entities with limited financial resources from participating, possibly skewing workforce development opportunities in favor of larger companies.
Broad Impact
Broadly, the bill's intent to strengthen workforce development could lead to improved job training and employment outcomes nationwide. By reallocating resources to emerging industries and focusing on skill development, the bill attempts to address current employment challenges and future-proof the workforce against evolving job market demands. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives will heavily depend on clear implementation guidelines, proper checks and balances, and transparent fund allocation.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
On a positive note, states could greatly benefit from increased flexibility to tailor programs and funds to meet local workforce demands. On the other hand, small businesses might face financial strain due to participation costs in skills development programs, potentially limiting their involvement. Job Corps alterations, such as changing terms from "centers" to "campuses", might necessitate infrastructure changes, possibly imposing significant costs without clear justification.
In conclusion, while the "A Stronger Workforce for America Act" offers potential improvements to the U.S. workforce ecosystem, significant changes and their nuanced implications require careful consideration and refinement to ensure equitable and efficient results. The bill's successful implementation rests on creating precise definitions, transparent funding oversight, and scalable solutions that effectively meet the needs of all participating entities.
Financial Assessment
The bill, H.R. 6655, titled "A Stronger Workforce for America Act," involves multiple financial allocations and appropriations aimed at enhancing workforce development programs. Here's a detailed look into the financial aspects and their implications based on the identified issues.
Appropriations and Funding Allocations
Several sections of the bill outline substantial budget appropriations for various workforce-related activities:
Section 145 authorizes appropriations for youth workforce investment activities, adult employment and training activities, and dislocated worker employment and training activities. These are set at $976,573,900, $912,218,500, and $1,451,859,000 respectively for each fiscal year from 2025 to 2030. Similar authorizations are reiterated in Section 136 without changes in the amounts.
The YouthBuild Program under Section 176 mentions that if appropriations exceed $90,000,000, at least 20% of the excess will be reserved for specific applicants, highlighting intricacies on spending and allocations for targeted groups such as rural areas and Indian Tribes.
Section 167 earmarks $1,760,155,000 annually from 2025 to 2030 for the Job Corps program.
The section on Native American programs (Section 171) notes additional funding, with $542,000 earmarked for particular subsections over the same fiscal period.
These large appropriations reflect the bill’s ambition to invest significantly in workforce development. However, concerns about transparency and efficient utilization arise due to the lack of specific performance metrics or rationalizations accompanying these allocations.
Issues with Financial References
Lack of Detailed Justification: The bill authorizes large sums of money (as seen in Sections 145 and 167), but it does not provide detailed justifications for these figures. This raises concerns about potential inefficiencies or the risk of overfunding certain initiatives. A detailed breakdown would help mitigate fears of misallocation as highlighted in the identified issues.
Discretionary Powers and Oversight: The bill grants substantial discretion to state authorities in Section 143 to reallocate funds towards a Critical Industry Skills Fund without clearly defined oversight mechanisms. This raises the possibility of discretionary spending lacking accountability, potentially leading to favoritism, as noted in the issues list.
Employer Contribution Requirements: Provisions that require employer cost-sharing for training initiatives (Sections 101 and 143) could potentially deter participation from small businesses if financial burdens are too high, thereby reducing access to such programs; highlighting the need for a balanced approach where employer contributions align with company size.
Unspecified Benefits of Structural Changes: Changes from "centers" to "campuses" in Job Corps sections imply physical structure modifications which might lead to additional, unspecified funding needs. Concerns about the necessity and efficiency of these changes without a detailed cost-benefit analysis could arise, straining financial resources without clear benefits.
Complexity and Navigability
The bill introduces complex financial clauses and references that could be challenging for stakeholders to navigate, particularly without a clear summary or context. This complexity could impede effective implementation and understanding among those not well-versed in legislative nuances, as specified under the issues regarding complicated cross-references.
In conclusion, while H.R. 6655 outlines significant financial investments to bolster workforce opportunities, it brings to light several issues concerning the efficient and accountable usage of funds. Addressing these concerns with detailed guidelines and transparency would enhance trust and ensure the bill’s objectives are met effectively.
Issues
The bill introduces various amendments to terms and classifications within the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, such as replacing "out-of-school youth" with "opportunity youth" and "English language learners" with "English learners." These changes (Sections 101, 112, 116, 129) may lead to ambiguity and inconsistent interpretations without clear definitions, impacting the implementation of programs and potentially altering target demographic outcomes.
There is a lack of clarity and specific guidelines surrounding the effectiveness, allocation, and use of appropriated funds throughout multiple sections of the bill (such as Section 145 - Authorization of appropriations). The absence of detailed performance metrics or rationales for proposed funding levels raises concerns about the accountability and transparency of fund utilization, potentially leading to inefficiencies or wasteful spending.
The amendment allows the introduction of employer-directed skills development programs which require cost-sharing by employers based on company size (Sections 101, 143). This could deter small businesses from participating if financial resources are insufficient, potentially limiting workforce development opportunities and skewing access towards larger companies.
The bill introduces substantial changes to the pay-for-performance contract strategy (Section 101), including complex mechanisms for validating performance. Without clear guidelines, this could result in disputes over performance measurements and payments to service providers, affecting the efficiency and fairness of service provision.
The bill gives broad authority to State Governors to reserve and reallocate funds through various provisions (Sections 128, 133), including the creation of a Critical Industry Skills Fund without explicit criteria for oversight, leading to discretionary spending that may lack accountability and possibly result in favoritism or misuse of funds.
The establishment and funding of a Critical Industry Skills Fund without clear eligibility criteria or oversight mechanisms (Section 143) can lead to discretionary spending with limited accountability, raising concerns about potential favoritism or inefficient allocation of taxpayer funds.
The authorization of appropriations for multiple initiatives within the Act (Sections 161, 180) are presented with large, round numbers but lack a detailed breakdown or justification, raising concerns about precise budgeting and potential overfunding or wasteful spending without proper safeguards.
The transition from "center" to "campus" in Job Corps sections (Sections 151-158) suggests infrastructure changes that might necessitate additional funding, yet there is no clear justification for the benefits, risks creating financial strain without demonstrated necessity or efficacy.
The amendments introduce numerous complex clauses and cross-references without providing sufficient context or summaries (Sections 132, 143, 303). This could make the legislation challenging to understand and navigate, particularly for stakeholders who are not familiar with legal or legislative texts, impeding proper implementation.
Sections
Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.
1. Short title; table of contents Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The "A Stronger Workforce for America Act" outlines the structure and provisions for workforce development in the United States. It covers topics such as state and local workforce planning, job corps programs, and adult education initiatives, aiming to enhance job training and employment opportunities across various demographics.
2. Effective date; transition authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Act and its amendments will take effect at the start of the first program year following its enactment. Before this date, the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Education are authorized to prepare for the changes to ensure a smooth transition, including repealing Section 503 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
101. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section updates definitions in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, including terms like "foundational skill needs," "employer-directed skills development," and "opportunity youth." It also introduces new definitions such as "co-enrollment," "digital literacy skills," "evidence-based," "labor organization," and "work-based learning," while ensuring these definitions align with other related legislation or Acts.
102. Table of contents amendments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the table of contents of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing the label for section 172 to section 174, adding new sections about employment opportunities for reentry and strengthening workforce development in community colleges, and revising the description of section 190 to focus on state innovation demonstration authority.
111. State workforce development board Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing the term "out-of-school youth" to "opportunity youth" in a specific part of the Act.
112. Unified State plan Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, emphasizing the enhancement of the state workforce plans. It highlights the use of real-time labor market information, promotion of skill-based employment oppportunities, evaluation of occupational licensing policies, and analysis of the opportunity youth population, while introducing flexible language for certain plan descriptions and refining procedural requirements.
115. Workforce development areas Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The changes to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act detail new procedures for states to review and designate workforce development regions and local areas. States must consult local boards and officials when revising regions, and governors have specific timelines and approval processes to follow for any redesignations. Additionally, there are provisions for incentivizing cooperation between regions, creating regional consortiums, and potentially designating a state as a single local area if proposed and approved.
116. Local workforce development boards Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The text outlines amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act that change language and emphasize evidence-based practices for local workforce development boards. It includes updates on membership, broadens the focus to include opportunity youth, and aligns with education programs, while introducing a priority for veterans in employment services.
117. Local plan Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The proposed amendments to Section 108 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act aim to provide more flexibility in preparing local plans, enhance the use of real-time labor market information, and address services for opportunity youth. They also suggest initiatives to recognize skills over degrees and involve community-based organizations for youth development, along with promoting employer-directed skills development.
119. Performance accountability system Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The proposed changes to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act introduce adjustments to performance accountability standards for state employment programs. These amendments include new criteria for evaluating program success, reporting requirements, the introduction of potential penalties for underperformance, and the inclusion of modern data analysis methods for program evaluation, aiming to improve transparency and outcomes in workforce development efforts.
121. Establishment of one-stop delivery systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 121 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act enhance the functioning of one-stop delivery systems by modifying responsibilities and structure, emphasizing electronic and physical accessibility, ensuring funding flexibility, and strengthening conflict of interest safeguards for local boards involved in service provision and competition management. This aims to improve efficiency and coordination in providing workforce services to the public.
122. Identification of eligible providers and programs of training services Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill outlines new rules for identifying and approving training programs and providers under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. It emphasizes that states must set standards for providers to qualify for funding, including performance and cost criteria, and introduces options for conditional and standard eligibility, along with incentives for high-performing providers.
131. Reservations; Reallocation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act allow state governors to set aside up to 10% of certain funds to create a skills fund for critical industries, provided they match this amount with other specified sources. Additionally, local areas that meet certain performance criteria can receive reallocated funds as performance-based incentives, ensuring they are not under corrective action for administrative non-compliance.
132. Use of funds for youth workforce investment activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to change the terms for youth programs, focusing on "opportunity youth" rather than "out-of-school youth." It outlines eligibility changes, priority and funding allocations, and program requirements, including eligibility determination, summer and year-round employment opportunities, and the implementation of individual training accounts for youth.
141. State allotments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by removing a reference to dislocated worker projects and adding new references to dislocated worker projects and workforce data quality initiatives.
142. Reservations for State activities; within State allocations; Reallocation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to allow governors to reserve additional funds for critical industry skills and specifies conditions under which local areas receive performance-based incentive payments. It also outlines that these incentive funds are not subject to specific requirements, providing more flexibility for local areas to use them.
143. Use of funds for employment and training activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section authorizes the use of funds for statewide and local employment and training activities, emphasizing support for displaced workers, veterans, and partnerships with educational institutions. It introduces a critical industry skills fund to offer financial incentives for skill development programs and specifies requirements for reimbursement, performance reporting, and cost-sharing, while encouraging skills-based hiring and competency assessments.
145. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amended Section 136 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act specifies how much money Congress can allocate for different job-related activities from 2025 to 2030. It allows about $976 million each year for youth workforce activities, around $912 million yearly for adult employment and training, and approximately $1.45 billion annually for dislocated worker employment and training.
Money References
- (a) Youth workforce investment activities.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 127(a) $976,573,900 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- “(b) Adult employment and training activities.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 132(a)(1) $912,218,500 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- “(c) Dislocated worker employment and training activities.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 132(a)(2) $1,451,859,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.”.
136. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section authorizes specific funding amounts for workforce and training activities from 2025 to 2030: approximately $976 million for youth workforce investment, $912 million for adult employment and training, and $1.45 billion for dislocated worker employment and training.
Money References
- (a) Youth workforce investment activities.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 127(a) $976,573,900 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- (b) Adult employment and training activities.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 132(a)(1) $912,218,500 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- (c) Dislocated worker employment and training activities.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 132(a)(2) $1,451,859,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
151. Purposes Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 151 of the bill changes the wording in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by replacing the term “centers” with “campuses” wherever it appears in Section 141.
152. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 152 updates the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing the word “center” to “campus” in specific paragraphs, including the title of paragraph 7.
153. Individuals eligible for the Job Corps Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the criteria for individuals eligible for the Job Corps, extending the age limit from 21 to 24 and including residents of qualified opportunity zones and certain military members. It also sets special rules for determining eligibility for homeless and foster youth, ensuring compliance with specific requirements from the Higher Education Act of 1965.
154. Recruitment, screening, selection, and assignment of enrollees Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to outline drug testing procedures for program enrollees, requiring an initial test within 48 hours of arrival and a follow-up if the result is positive; continued drug use results in termination and referral to treatment. Additionally, it changes references from "center" to "campus" in related sections.
155. Job Corps Campuses Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill updates the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to change references from "Job Corps centers" to "Job Corps campuses" and makes adjustments to the funding percentages and performance indicators for these campuses. It also adds requirements for reporting on safety and emergency procedures and improving campus facilities and learning environments.
156. Program activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 148 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act change "center" to "campus" throughout and encourage additional activities like tutoring for students outside regular hours to enhance supervision and reduce misbehavior. They also specify that educational programs should align with students' completed career and technical education.
157. Support Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is being amended to change "centers" to "campuses" and to allow Job Corps graduates to stay at a Job Corps campus for up to one month after graduation. To qualify for this, graduates must not have any behavioral issues in the 90 days before graduation and must receive written approval from the campus director.
158. Operations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 151 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act allows Job Corps campus operators to hire staff, make agreements with educational partners, and engage with stakeholders without needing prior approval from the Secretary, as long as they stay within the Secretary-approved budget. It also states that certain agreements without financial compensation are not considered subcontracts, and requires the Secretary to seek input from operators about any changes to agreements or operational plans that may affect costs.
159. Standards of conduct Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 152 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act makes several changes to the Job Corps program. These changes include replacing the term "centers" with "campuses," requiring a behavior management plan for each campus, establishing an appeals process for disciplinary actions, setting timelines and requirements for incident reporting, and mandating agreements with local law enforcement for investigating potentially illegal activities on campus.
160. Community participation Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section of the bill amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing the term "center" to "campus" throughout Section 153, including the heading of subsection (c).
161. Workforce councils Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 161 modifies the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing references from "center" to "campus" and updating a heading in subsection (d) to refer to "New campuses" instead of "New centers."
162. Advisory committees Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to require the Secretary of Labor to establish an advisory committee. This committee will provide recommendations on strategies to enhance safety, security, and learning conditions on Job Corps campuses and improve campus safety standards.
163. Experimental projects and technical assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act enables the Secretary to offer grants to colleges to help Job Corps eligible youth with education and job placement. The grants will cover tuition and support services, a year-long career education, and a year of employment placement, with performance evaluations to ensure effectiveness and comparisons with other Job Corps programs.
164. Special provisions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 164 amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing all mentions of “center” to “campus” and allows Job Corps campus operators to accept grants and donations. It also clarifies that any property acquired by a Job Corps campus will be transferred to the Secretary without any cost.
165. Management information Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to modify how Job Corps campuses set and assess performance levels, changing "center" to "campus" and introducing new performance criteria and safety standards. It requires the Secretary of Labor to develop performance improvement plans for campuses that fail to meet certain benchmarks and allows for significant interventions, such as replacing staff or operators, if campuses continue to underperform.
166. Job Corps oversight and reporting Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 161 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act requires the Secretary of Labor to prepare and submit an annual report to certain committees about how they are implementing suggestions from the Department of Labor's Inspector General or the Government Accountability Office.
167. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to authorize $1,760,155,000 in funding each year from 2025 to 2030 for the purposes outlined in the subtitle.
Money References
- Section 162 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3212) is amended to read as follows: “SEC. 162. Authorization of appropriations. “There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subtitle $1,760,155,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.”.
162. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill authorizes the allocation of $1,760,155,000 each year from 2025 to 2030 to support the activities described in this section.
Money References
- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subtitle $1,760,155,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
171. Native American programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 166 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act enhances Native American programs by requiring evidence-based activities, limiting administrative costs to 10%, using wage records for evaluating performance, and making performance data publicly accessible. It also outlines procedures for council vacancies and authorizes $542,000 per year from 2025 through 2030 for these initiatives.
Money References
- an individual may serve on the Council after the expiration of such term until a successor is appointed.”; and (5) by amending subsection (k)(2) to read as follows: “(2) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection $542,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.”. ---
172. Migrant and seasonal farmworker programs Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to require the Secretary to use state wage records to evaluate job program performance, publish performance results online, limit administrative costs to 10% of funding, and outline how funds are allocated and can be used over specific time periods.
173. Technical assistance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 168 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act focus on enhancing technical assistance by emphasizing professional development instead of training, integrating career services, aiding states in maintaining lists of training providers, and assisting communities dealing with opioid use disorders by offering updated information and resources. The changes also broaden the scope of performance accountability to include core programs beyond just employment and training for dislocated workers.
174. Evaluations and research Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
In this section, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is updated to change evaluation procedures and introduce a new grant system. These grants aim to help create better data systems for tracking workforce development, making informed decisions, and ensuring data privacy.
175. National dislocated worker grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act allows grants to be used for job training and support related to opioid use disorder treatment in areas with high demand, and introduces new eligibility criteria for individuals. It also mandates the collection of performance data from grant recipients, which will be shared online without personal information.
176. YouthBuild Program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act updates the YouthBuild Program by defining the criteria for grant eligibility and allocation, emphasizing support for rural areas and Indian Tribes, allowing food assistance for participants, and requiring performance reports to be published online. Additionally, it sets the annual funding announcement schedule and authorizes funding up to $108,150,000 annually from 2025 to 2030.
Money References
- — “(i) IN GENERAL.—In any fiscal year in which the amount appropriated to carry out this section is greater than $90,000,000, the Secretary shall reserve not less than 20 percent of the amount appropriated that is in excess of $90,000,000 and use such reserved amount to make grants to covered applicants (in addition to any other grants that may be awarded under this subsection for such fiscal year to covered applicants) for the purpose of carrying out YouthBuild programs approved under this section. “(ii) COVERED APPLICANT DEFINED.—In this subparagraph, the term ‘covered applicant’ means an applicant that— “(I) is located in a rural area; or “(II) is an Indian Tribe or is carrying out a YouthBuild program approved under this section for the benefit of members of an Indian Tribe.”; (B) in paragraph (2)— (i) in subparagraph (A)— (I) in clause (iv)(II), by striking “language learners” and inserting “learners”; and (II) in clause (vii), by inserting after “enable individuals” the following: “, including those with disabilities,”; and (ii) by adding at the end the following: “(I) Provision of meals and other food assistance to participants in conjunction with another activity described in this paragraph.”
- (C) in paragraph (3)— (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking “such time, in such manner, and containing such information” and inserting “such time and in such manner”; and (ii) in subparagraph (B)— (I) in the header, by striking “Minimum requirements” and inserting “Requirements”; (II) by striking “, at a minimum”; (III) in clause (xx), by striking “and” at the end; (IV) in clause (xxi) by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and (V) by adding at the end the following: “(xxii) a description of the levels of performance the applicant expects to achieve on the primary indicators of performance described in section 116(b)(2)(A)(ii).”; and (D) in paragraph (4)— (i) by striking “such selection criteria as the Secretary shall establish under this section, which shall include criteria” and inserting “selection criteria”; (ii) in subparagraph (J)(iii), by adding “and” after the semicolon; (iii) in subparagraph (K), by striking “; and” and inserting a period; and (iv) by striking subparagraph (L); (2) in subsection (e)(1)— (A) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking “offender” and inserting “who is a justice-involved individual”; and (B) in subparagraph (B)(i), by striking “are basic skills deficient” and inserting “have foundational skill needs”; (3) in subsection (f), by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following: “(2) USE OF WAGE RECORDS.—The Secretary shall make arrangements with a State or other appropriate entity to facilitate the use of State wage records to evaluate the performance of YouthBuild programs funded under this section on the employment and earnings indicators described in section 116(b)(2)(A)(ii) for the purposes of the report required under paragraph (3). “(3) PERFORMANCE RESULTS.—For each program year, the Secretary shall make available, on a publicly accessible website of the Department, a report on the performance of YouthBuild programs, during such program year, funded under this section on— “(A) the primary indicators of performance described in section 116(b)(2)(A)(ii); and “(B) the expected levels of performance for such programs as described in paragraph (1).”; (4) in subsection (g), by inserting at the end the following: “(4) ANNUAL RELEASE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT.—The Secretary shall, to the greatest extent practicable, announce new funding opportunities for grants under this section during the same time period each year for which such grants are available.”; and (5) by amending subsection (i) to read as follows: “(i) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $108,150,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.”. ---
178. Reentry employment opportunities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines a program to provide job opportunities for adults and youth who've been involved with the justice system, aiming to improve their employment prospects and reduce recidivism. It describes how competitive grants will be awarded to various organizations to create reentry projects, details the application process, and emphasizes focusing on high-poverty areas, evidence-based strategies, and partnerships with businesses and educational institutions.
172. Reentry employment opportunities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
This section of the bill focuses on enhancing job opportunities for adults and youth involved with the justice system by providing grants and agreements to eligible organizations. It outlines the processes for granting funds, the criteria for select organizations, and the goals of reducing recidivism and boosting job skills and earnings for justice-involved individuals through innovative reentry projects.
179. Strengthening community colleges grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a grant program to help community colleges develop or expand high-quality workforce programs. These programs aim to provide students with skills and qualifications for high-demand jobs, with a focus on partnerships with employers and accommodating students facing barriers to employment.
173. Strengthening community colleges workforce development grants program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill outlines a program to support community colleges in developing high-quality workforce development programs, aimed at helping more individuals secure valuable job skills and credentials. It establishes guidelines for grant eligibility, application procedures, uses of funds, and performance evaluations, favoring colleges that focus on in-demand industries, engage with employers, and serve disadvantaged populations.
180. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the authorized funding amounts for various programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act for fiscal years 2025 through 2030. It specifies the allocation of funds for Native American programs, migrant and seasonal farmworker programs, technical assistance, evaluations and research, a reentry program, and a program for strengthening community colleges.
Money References
- Section 174 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, as so redesignated, is amended— (1) by redesignating subsections (e) and (f) as subsections (g) and (h), respectively; and (2) by striking subsections (a) through (d) and inserting the following: “(a) Native American programs.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 166 (not including subsection (k) of such section) $61,800,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- “(b) Migrant and seasonal farmworker programs.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 167 $100,317,900 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- “(c) Technical assistance.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 168 $5,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- “(d) Evaluations and research.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 169 $12,720,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- “(e) Reentry program.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 172 $115,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.
- “(f) Strengthening community colleges program.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 173 $65,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.”.
191. Requirements and restrictions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act requires employers to consult with labor unions on training plans if they’re using funding from this Act for employee training covered by a collective bargaining agreement. It also changes the law to explicitly mention "employer-directed skills development" when discussing relocation.
192. General waivers of statutory or regulatory requirements Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section updates the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to include additional requirements for reviewing and approving plans, as well as for the performance reports and certain other obligations.
193. State innovation demonstration authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the process for States to engage in workforce innovation programs using demonstration projects. It allows States, local areas, or groupings of local areas to consolidate funds and apply for waivers to execute these projects, aiming for improved job outcomes and accountability, with provisions for evaluations, renewals, and performance assessments.
190. State innovation demonstration authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows eligible States to apply for a consolidated grant to create innovation demonstration projects aimed at improving employment outcomes. The projects require evaluations to show their impact, have specific application and operational guidelines, and give priority to veterans and disadvantaged groups, with an option for a second 5-year term if performance exceeds expectations.
201. Purpose Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by adding "digital literacy skills" to the skills necessary for workers and changing the term "English language learners" to "English learners" for consistency in the language used.
202. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to include digital literacy skills and update terminology, replacing "English language learner" with "English learner." It also broadens the scope of educational and skills development, highlighting foundational skills, preparation for education or work, and financial literacy.
203. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 203 amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to authorize $751,042,100 for each fiscal year from 2025 to 2030. This money is allocated for programs under the title, ensuring funding for initiatives related to workforce development.
Money References
- Section 206 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3275) is amended to read as follows: “SEC. 206. Authorization of appropriations. “There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this title $751,042,100 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.”.
206. Authorization of appropriations Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section authorizes the allocation of $751,042,100 for each fiscal year from 2025 to 2030 to support the implementation of this title.
Money References
- There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this title $751,042,100 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030. ---
204. Special rule Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 204 changes the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by updating a reference from a section about a certain time period to a new description involving the definition of an "outlying area."
205. Performance accountability system Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment updates the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to change how a specific performance indicator is applied. It clarifies that the measure should consider the percentage of participants who left the program during the year and completed a combined education and training program.
206. Matching requirement Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 222(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act requires each eligible agency to publicly share information about the non-Federal contributions they receive for adult education and family literacy programs. This information must be posted online and include the sources of these contributions, while maintaining the privacy of private donors, and explain how funds provided by a State or outlying area are distributed to eligible providers.
207. State leadership activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act focus on enhancing state leadership activities by improving the coordination between workforce and education programs, developing instructional materials for adult and English learners, and increasing the effectiveness of adult education programs. Additionally, the changes encourage performance-based incentives for educators, promote public awareness of career and technical education, and aim to align education with in-demand state occupations.
208. Programs for corrections education and other institutionalized individuals Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act requires that educational programs for criminal offenders in correctional institutions work together with career and technical education activities from related federal funds, aiming to create integrated education and training opportunities for those individuals.
209. Grants and contracts for eligible providers Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by updating language related to English learners, requiring instructional materials to cater to adult and English learners, allowing the use of universal design principles, and permitting cost analysis for determining grant and contract funding based on educational and workplace training activities.
210. Local application Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 232 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act includes coordinating with state entities, updating the list of responsibilities by removing "and," moving and renumbering paragraphs, and adding a requirement for providers to describe their plans for delivering contextual learning through collaboration with employers.
211. Local administrative cost limits Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 211 amends a part of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to change how money is allocated for local administrative costs. It allows up to 10% of funds for adult educator training and sets a 5% limit for planning, administrative tasks, staff training, and other specified activities.
212. National leadership activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to Section 242 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act focus on enhancing program performance by sharing effective practices, updating terminology related to English learners, and improving adult education through new programs and initiatives that support educator preparation and program quality standards.
213. Integrated English literacy and civics education Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing the term “English language learners” to “English learners” in the specified part of the law.
301. Amendments to the Wagner-Peyser Act Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Wagner-Peyser Act include adding the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa to certain provisions, adjusting how funds are allocated, and specifying that funds can be used to provide additional employment services. Additionally, the act now emphasizes the use of real-time data for workforce information, modernizing technology, and authorizes increased funding for these initiatives from 2025 to 2030.
Money References
- (c) Allotments.—Section 6 of such Act (29 U.S.C. 49e) is amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by striking “except for Guam” and inserting “except for Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa”; (B) by striking “first allot to Guam and the Virgin Islands” and inserting the following: “first allot— “(1) to Guam and the Virgin Islands”; (C) by striking the period at the end and inserting “; and”; and (D) by adding at the end the following: “(2) beginning with the first fiscal year for which the total amount available for allotments under this section is greater than the total amount available for allotments under this section for fiscal year 2024, and for each succeeding fiscal year, to each of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa, an amount which is equal to one-half of the amount allotted to Guam under paragraph (1) for such fiscal year.”; and (2) in subsection (b)(1), in the matter following subparagraph (B), by inserting “, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa,” after “Guam”. (d) Use of funds.—Section 7 of such Act (29 U.S.C. 49f) is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking “and referral to employers” and inserting “referral to employers, and the services described in section 134(c)(2)(A)(ii) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(2)(A)(ii)) when provided by the employment service office colocated with the one-stop delivery system”; and (2) in subsection (e), by inserting before the period at the end the following: “and in accordance with the requirements of section 134(c)(2)(A)(i)(I) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(2)(A)(i)(I))”. (e) Workforce and labor market information system.—Section 15 of such Act (29 U.S.C. 49l–2) is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(1)— (A) in subparagraph (A)— (i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking “timely manner” and inserting “manner that is as close to real-time as practicable”; (ii) in clause (i), by striking “part-time, and seasonal workers” and inserting “part-time, contingent, and seasonal workers, and workers engaged in alternative employment arrangements”; (iii) by redesignating clauses (iii) and (iv) as clauses (iv) and (v), respectively; and (iv) by inserting after clause (ii), the following: “(iii) real-time trends in new and emerging occupational roles, and in new and emerging skills by occupation and industry, with particular attention paid to State and local conditions;”; (B) in subparagraph (B)(i), by inserting “(including, to the extent practicable, real-time)” after “current”; and (C) in subparagraph (G), by striking “user-friendly manner and” and inserting “manner that is available on-demand and is user-friendly,”; (2) in subsection (b)(2)(F)— (A) in clause (i), by striking “; and” and inserting “(including, to the extent practicable, provided in real time);”; (B) by redesignating clause (ii) as clause (iii); and (C) by inserting after clause (i), as so amended, the following: “(ii) the capabilities of digital technology and modern data collection approaches are effectively utilized; and”; and (3) by amending subsection (g) to read as follows: “(g) Authorization of appropriations.—There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $64,532,600 for each of the fiscal years 2025 through 2030.”. ---
302. Job training grants Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to the American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act outlines how job training grants will be funded and distributed to help dislocated workers. It details the process of allotting funds to states and local areas for training, the criteria for being an eligible dislocated worker, and the conditions under which additional funds may be requested if demand exceeds available resources.
Money References
- “(ii) AMOUNTS AVAILABLE.—Except as provided in clause (iv)(II), a local area— “(I) may not limit the maximum amount available for an individual training account for an eligible dislocated worker under subparagraph (A) to an amount that is less than $5,000; and “(II) may not pay an amount, through the use of an individual training account under subparagraph (A), for training services provided to an eligible dislocated worker that exceeds the costs of such services.
- , for the purpose of paying, through the use of individual training accounts under subparagraph (A), the costs of training services for eligible dislocated workers in the local area seeking such services, the local area— “(I) shall use any funds made available to the local area pursuant to section 134(c)(1)(B) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(1)(B)) to pay for such costs under subparagraph (A) (other than any costs that exceed the limit set by the local area pursuant to subclause (II)); and “(II) for any eligible dislocated worker who is not a low-income individual, may limit the maximum amount available for the individual training account under subparagraph (A) for such worker to an amount that is less than $5,000. “(3) ELIGIBLE DISLOCATED WORKER.—A dislocated worker shall be an eligible dislocated worker for purposes of this subsection if the dislocated worker— “(A) meets the requirements under section 134(c)(3)(A)(i) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(3)(A)(i)) to be eligible for training services; “(B) has not received training services through an individual training account under this subsection or under section 134(c)(3)(F)(iii) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(3)(F)(iii)) during the preceding 5-year period or, if such a worker has received such training services during such period, the worker has been granted an exception by the local area due to an exceptional circumstance, as determined by the local area; and “(C) is not subject to any limitations established by the local area or State involved pursuant to paragraph (4), which would disqualify such dislocated worker from being an eligible dislocated worker under this subsection.
303. Access to National Directory of New Hires Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Social Security Act to include new reporting and evaluation activities under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, clarifying language about programs covered and the purposes specified.