Overview
Title
To amend and reauthorize the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
ELI5 AI
The bill is like a big plan to help people learn new skills and get good jobs. It also tries to make sure money is spent wisely on this, while checking that everyone involved is doing things the right way.
Summary AI
H.R. 6655 aims to amend and renew the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, offering a comprehensive framework to enhance workforce development across the United States. This bill focuses on improving coordination between industry needs and training programs, increasing support for disadvantaged groups, and introducing new performance measures for workforce programs. It also allocates funds for various labor initiatives, including job training and reemployment services, to help individuals improve their skills and find better jobs. Key changes include support for digital literacy, expanded youth employment opportunities, and strategies to promote evidence-based practices.
Published
Keywords AI
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Bill Statistics
Size
Language
Complexity
AnalysisAI
General Summary of the Bill
The proposed legislation, titled "A Stronger Workforce for America Act," aims to amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The bill outlines a comprehensive framework for workforce development activities across the United States, involving both state and local workforce boards and accountability systems. It seeks to reauthorize existing programs and introduce new initiatives aimed at improving job training and employment opportunities for youth and adults, including those in marginalized communities. The legislation also proposes several detailed changes to existing definitions and terminology, which aim to align with modern workforce needs and policies.
Summary of Significant Issues
The bill introduces several significant changes, many of which raise important considerations. Firstly, the waiver of statutory and regulatory requirements for innovation demonstration projects has raised concerns about the potential lack of oversight and the risk of fund misuse. Expanding the eligibility for Job Corps by increasing the age limit without clear justification raises questions about the program's financial implications and potential efficacy.
A consistent change across sections is the replacement of the term "out-of-school youth" with "opportunity youth," which remains without a clear definition. This shift could lead to inconsistencies or confusion in program implementation. Similarly, the introduction of new terms like "employer-directed skills development" and "justice-involved individual" requires precise definitions to avoid varied interpretations and ensure fair application.
The provision allowing states to reserve a portion of state-allocated funds for critical industry skills initiatives could potentially invite wasteful spending, especially if not systematically audited or managed. Additionally, amendments requiring "real-time" data in several sections could significantly raise administrative costs without detailed plans on feasibility or resource management.
The bill also raises the question of its appropriations, with large sums allocated annually without specific delineation of programmatic goals or outcomes, thus drawing concerns about fiscal efficiency.
Potential Impact on the Public
Overall, the bill could positively impact the workforce by providing enhanced training programs, fostering industry partnerships, and supporting skills development tailored to in-demand careers. However, the lack of precise definitions and guidelines introduces a risk of inconsistent application across diverse regions.
For the general public, these changes might mean improved access to job training and potential employment opportunities in emerging sectors. However, the introduction of new processes and requirements could increase operational complexity, leading to delays in program execution or access to resources.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
Stakeholders such as job training providers, state and local workforce agencies, and participants in workforce programs might experience both positive and negative impacts. Providers may benefit from increased funding opportunities but could struggle with meeting new performance criteria and accountability systems that lack clear definitions. State and local governments will need to manage more complex reporting, potentially placing a strain on existing resources.
Youth and adult learners, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, could gain from the broadened age eligibility and increased focus on digital literacy, though such benefits might be offset by the challenges of navigating new program requirements. Employers participating in training programs could find opportunities to shape skills development but might encounter complexities in formalizing employer-directed skills development agreements.
In conclusion, while the bill proposes valuable changes aimed at enhancing workforce development practices, its success will largely depend on clear communication, effective oversight, and equitable implementation across regions.
Financial Assessment
H.R. 6655, a proposed amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, involves several financial allocations and appropriations aimed at enhancing workforce development. The bill outlines various expenditures and specifies funding to support numerous workforce initiatives, training programs, and innovative practices. Below is a detailed examination of these financial elements and the issues accompanying them.
Financial Allocations and Appropriations
Youth, Adult, and Dislocated Worker Activities: The bill authorizes appropriations of $976,573,900 annually for youth workforce activities, $912,218,500 for adult employment and training activities, and $1,451,859,000 for dislocated worker programs from fiscal years 2025 through 2030. These allocations are substantial and aimed at providing substantial support to improve employment opportunities and skill development for various populations.
Job Corps Funding: There is a provision for Job Corps with a significant appropriation of $1,760,155,000 annually for each fiscal year from 2025 to 2030. This large financial commitment highlights the government's focus on supporting educational and employment services for disadvantaged youth. However, the allocation size was flagged as potentially excessive without clear articulations of expected outcomes or detailed program descriptions, raising concerns of inefficient spending.
Native American and Migrant Programs: The bill earmarks $61,800,000 annually for Native American programs and $100,317,900 for migrant and seasonal farmworker programs. These funds are intended to target specific community needs and support tailored employment services.
YouthBuild Program: For the YouthBuild Program, the Secretary is to reserve 20% of any appropriated amount exceeding $90,000,000 for programs in rural areas and Indian tribes. Overall, the program is authorized $108,150,000 annually through 2030.
Related Issues
Job Corps Funding Concerns: The appropriations for Job Corps, exceeding $1.7 billion annually, are notably large, prompting concerns about potential inefficiencies and lack of defined program specifics. Without detailed information on targeted outcomes, there is a risk that these funds might not be used as efficiently as possible.
State Innovation and Demonstration Authority: The section dealing with waivers for innovative projects could divert funds without sufficient oversight, potentially leading to expenditure misuse. The bill permits states to receive block grants free from usual statutory constraints, raising accountability issues in the use of these funds.
Statewide Critical Industry Skills Funds: The bill allows states to reserve up to 10% of their allocated funds for critical industry skills funds. While potentially beneficial, the lack of clarity on evaluation and outcomes could result in wasteful expenditure if these funds are not effectively managed or audited.
Administrative Costs of Real-time Data Requirements: Increased administrative costs associated with the extensive use of "real-time" data reporting requirements could strain financial resources. Although real-time data can enhance decision-making, its feasibility and cost-effectiveness need to be scrutinized to avoid undue fiscal pressure.
H.R. 6655 entails extensive funding campaigns aimed at amplifying workforce readiness across the United States. While it establishes significant financial pledges towards youth, adult, and specialized population training programs, it also points to potential issues in oversight and financial efficiency. Addressing these issues with preemptive strategies and transparent financial planning will be essential to ensure these appropriations result in positive workforce outcomes.
Issues
The provision in SEC. 190 regarding the waiver of statutory and regulatory requirements for innovation demonstration projects raises concerns about the potential lack of oversight and accountability, which could lead to misuse of funds and undermine the law's existing protections. (Sections: 193, 190)
The amendment in SEC. 153 introduces a change in eligibility age for the Job Corps from 21 to 24 without providing justification, raising questions about the potential impact on costs and program efficacy. (Section: 153)
The use of the term 'opportunity youth' throughout multiple sections, replacing 'out-of-school youth,' could lead to ambiguity due to a lack of a clear definition or criteria for this new term. (Sections: 111, 116)
The language in SEC. 101 introduces terms like 'employer-directed skills development' with broad criteria for employer cost-sharing, which may lead to inconsistent applications or potential favoritism. (Section: 101)
The section on statewide critical industry skills funds allows up to 10% of state-allocated funds to be reserved, potentially leading to wasteful spending if the outcomes and management of these funds are not clearly defined or audited. (Sections: 131, 142, 143)
The amendments to the definition of 'justice-involved individual' in SEC. 101 might cause confusion or differing interpretations that impact justice-related programs. (Section: 101)
The provision in SEC. 206 regarding public availability of information on matching funds lacks clarity on how the public availability requirement will be enforced, potentially leading to inconsistencies in transparency. (Section: 206)
The extensive use of 'real-time' data requirements across several sections (such as SEC. 301) could significantly increase administrative costs, putting pressure on resources without clear feasibility plans. (Section: 301)
The authorized appropriations in SEC. 167 of over $1.7 billion annually for Job Corps might be seen as excessive without detailing specific programs or expected outcomes, highlighting concerns for potential inefficient spending. (Section: 167)
The amendment to performance accountability in SEC. 119 introduces terms such as 'justice-involved individual status' and advanced analytics without clear definitions, potentially leading to varied interpretations and accessibility issues in states with fewer resources. (Section: 119)
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 a comprehensive plan for workforce development, including the creation of state and local workforce boards, performance accountability systems, and various investment activities targeting youth and adult workers. It also establishes programs such as the Job Corps and national initiatives for specific communities, with provisions for funding, administration, and amendments to existing laws like the Wagner-Peyser Act.
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 amends various definitions in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, updating terms such as "foundational skill needs," "employer-directed skills development," and "justice-involved individuals," and introducing new definitions like "co-enrollment" and "digital literacy skills" to align with current workforce needs and policies. It also restructures the order of definitions for clarity and consistency.
102. Table of contents amendments Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the table of contents of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by changing the section number for Reentry Employment Opportunities, adding a new section for community college workforce development grants, and updating the description for a section 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 proposed amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act aim to revise how workforce development regions and local areas are designated and aligned. It introduces processes for states to periodically review and possibly redesignate these areas to ensure they meet strategic goals, involves local boards in decision-making, and provides incentives for regional collaboration.
116. Local workforce development boards Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section makes several changes to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, including updating terms and adding requirements for local workforce boards, such as prioritizing veterans and aligning training with technical education programs, as well as emphasizing evidence-based approaches and ensuring accessibility to training services.
117. Local plan Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Section 117 amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to allow local areas to optionally prepare plans and requires them to include real-time labor market information and communicate changes to stakeholders. It also requires an analysis of opportunity youth populations, the promotion of skills-based initiatives over degree requirements, the inclusion of affiliated sites, support for community organizations serving youth, and use of evidence-based activities.
119. Performance accountability system Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines changes to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, focusing on enhancing performance accountability measures for state and local programs. It includes amendments to performance indicators, reporting requirements, sanctions for not meeting performance goals, and introduces the use of advanced analytics to improve program outcomes.
121. Establishment of one-stop delivery systems Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to update how one-stop delivery systems operate by specifying new roles and responsibilities for one-stop partners and operators, including adding public libraries and local boards as potential operators. It also changes how these systems deliver services, either through physical centers or online, and updates funding mechanisms to ensure infrastructure costs are covered.
122. Identification of eligible providers and programs of training services Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by establishing rules for identifying eligible training service providers and programs. It outlines how providers can qualify for funding, the performance criteria they must meet, payment structures for achieving specific outcomes, and the information they need to submit. The changes aim to improve the training options available to individuals, boost program accountability, and enhance resource accessibility through a credential navigation feature.
131. Reservations for statewide activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to allow the Governor to use up to 10% of certain state funds to create a Critical Industry Skills Fund, but only if the Governor matches this amount with other specific federal or state funds.
132. Use of funds for youth workforce investment activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section modifies the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to include "opportunity youth" instead of "out-of-school youth" and introduces new eligibility rules and requirements for youth workforce programs. It ensures youth employment programs have educational components, limits wage subsidies, and prioritizes jobs in high-demand sectors.
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 Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act allow the Governor to set aside funds for critical industry skills at the statewide level, in addition to existing allocations. These changes make sure that references in the law correctly include new potential allocations under section 128(a)(3).
143. Use of funds for employment and training activities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to enhance employment and training activities, including establishing a "critical industry skills fund" for skills development in high-growth sectors. It also emphasizes skills-based hiring, competency-based assessments, and increased funding for skills development, while requiring states to communicate any additional requirements they impose beyond federal law to local areas.
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 section amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to replace the term "center" with "campus" and adds requirements for offering productive activities, such as tutoring and skills development, to keep residential enrollees engaged outside of class and work hours. It also specifies that eligible providers of educational services must align with the career and technical education completed by the enrollee.
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 section modifies the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act by replacing terms like "center" with "campus" and allows the Secretary of Education to fund higher education institutions to enroll Job Corps eligible youth in specialized programs called Job Corps Scholars. These programs include counseling, career and technical education, and employment placement. The Secretary is also required to collect performance and cost data from these programs and conduct evaluations to compare their outcomes and costs with other Job Corps programs.
164. Special provisions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The amendment to Section 158 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act involves two main changes: replacing the term "center" with "campus" and allowing Job Corps campuses to accept grants and charitable donations while specifying that any property acquired by these campuses will be transferred to the Secretary without requiring reimbursement.
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 amendments to Section 171 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act involve changes to the YouthBuild program, such as specifying grant amounts, reserving funds for rural areas and Indian Tribes, including food assistance for participants, refining selection criteria, and establishing the use of state wage records to evaluate program performance. Additionally, it authorizes funding of $108,150,000 annually from 2025 through 2030 and requires the Department to publish funding opportunities consistently each year.
Money References
- (B) RESERVATION FOR RURAL AREAS AND INDIAN TRIBES.—In any fiscal year in which the amount appropriated to carry out this section is greater than $90,000,000
- , the Secretary shall reserve 20 percent of the amount appropriated that is in excess of $90,000,000 and use such reserved amount to make grants, for the purpose of carrying out YouthBuild programs approved under this section, to applicants that— “(i) are located in rural areas; or “(ii) are Indian Tribes, or are carrying out such programs 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 establishes guidelines for reentry employment opportunities for individuals involved with the justice system, aiming to improve their job prospects and reduce recidivism. It authorizes competitive grants for eligible entities to implement projects, prioritize high-poverty areas, and requires thorough performance evaluation and reporting.
172. Reentry employment opportunities Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a program for providing competitive grants to organizations that help people who have been involved in the justice system find jobs and get skills training, with the goal of reducing repeat offenses. The program prioritizes projects in high-poverty areas, those partnering with businesses and educational institutions, and those offering evidence-based practices, and includes measures for evaluating the success of these initiatives.
179. Strengthening community colleges grant program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The Strengthening Community Colleges Workforce Development Grants Program aims to improve the quality of workforce programs at community colleges and increase opportunities for students to earn credentials that help them in high-demand jobs. The program provides competitive grants to community colleges and similar institutions to build partnerships with employers, expand educational programs, and improve employment outcomes through strategies like work-based learning and strong ties to the industry.
173. Strengthening community colleges workforce development grants program Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section establishes a program to provide competitive grants to community colleges and vocational institutions to develop or expand workforce training programs. These grants aim to help individuals earn credentials for high-demand jobs, with a focus on partnerships with industries, supporting low-income individuals, and ensuring the quality and effectiveness of the programs.
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 allows states to apply for consolidated grants to try innovative workforce projects for up to five years. It requires these projects to include rigorous evaluations to prove better outcomes and has specific rules about fund usage, grant amounts, performance goals, and accountability, including limitations on the number of projects and sanctions for underperformance.
190. State innovation demonstration authority Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section allows states to apply for special grants to try out new ways to improve job training programs for young people, adults, and those who have lost jobs. These projects can run for five years, with possible extensions, and aim to produce better results for job seekers and employers while requiring independent evaluations to track their success.
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 allow data accessed from the National Directory of New Hires to be used for managing the performance accountability system required by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. This change involves inserting specific references to the performance system in the relevant legal text.