Congressional Record — House (Tuesday, May 17, 2022)
Summary
The House section of the Congressional Record for Tuesday, May 17, 2022 prints floor action on bill H.R. 7309, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022, called up by Scott of Virginia under House Resolution 1119. A substitute consisting of Rules Committee Print 117-43 was adopted and the bill text is printed, with transition provisions directing the Secretaries of Labor and Education to publish proposed regulations within 240 days and final regulations within 24 months. A floor statement says the bill invests almost $1 billion in fiscal year 2023 for youth employment. Miller-Meeks demanded the yeas and nays on an amendment, and further consideration of the bill was postponed.
Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used
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[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 84 (Tuesday, May 17, 2022)]
[House]
[Page H]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
WORKFORCE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT OF 2022
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution
1119, I call up the bill (H.R. 7309) to reauthorize the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act, and ask for its immediate
consideration.
The Clerk read the title of the bill.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1119, in lieu
of the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the
Committee on Education and Labor printed in the bill, an amendment in
the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee
Print 117-43, modified by the amendment printed in part B of House
Report 117-325, is adopted and the bill, as amended, is considered
read.
The text of the bill, as amended, is as follows:
H.R. 7309
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of
the United States of America in Congress assembled.
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act of 2022''.
SEC. 2. REFERENCES.
Except as otherwise expressly provided, whenever in this
Act an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an
amendment to, or repeal of, a section or other provision, the
reference shall be considered to be made to a section or
other provision of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.).
SEC. 3. TRANSITION PROVISIONS.
(a) Workforce Development Systems and Investment
Activities.--The Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of
Education shall take such actions as the Secretaries
determine to be appropriate to provide for the orderly
transition from any authority under subtitle A of title I of
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3111
et seq.), as in effect on the day before the date of
enactment of this Act, to any authority under subtitle A of
title I of such Act (29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.), as amended by
this Act. Such actions shall include the provision of
guidance related to unified State planning, combined State
planning, and the performance accountability system described
in such subtitle.
(b) Workforce Investment Activities.--The Secretary of
Labor shall take such actions as the Secretary determines to
be appropriate to provide for the orderly transition from any
authority under the subtitles B through E of title I of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3151 et
seq.), as in effect on the day before the date of enactment
of this Act, to any authority under subtitles B through E of
title I of such Act, as amended by this Act.
(c) Adult Education and Literacy Programs.--The Secretary
of Education shall take such actions as the Secretary
determines to be appropriate to provide for the orderly
transition from any authority under the Adult Education and
Family Literacy Act (20 U.S.C. 9201 et seq.), as in effect on
the day before the date of enactment of this Act, to any
authority under the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act,
as amended by this Act.
(d) Employment Services Activities.--The Secretary of Labor
shall take such actions as the Secretary determines to be
appropriate to provide for the orderly transition from any
authority under the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.),
as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this
Act, to any authority under the Wagner-Peyser Act, as amended
by this Act.
(e) Regulations.--
(1) Proposed regulations.--Not later than 240 days after
the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Labor and
the Secretary of Education, as appropriate, shall develop and
publish in the Federal Register proposed regulations relating
to the transition to, and implementation of, the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act, as amended by this Act, and
the Wagner-Peyser Act, as amended by this Act.
(2) Final regulations.--Not later than 24 months after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretaries described in
paragraph (1), as appropriate, shall develop and publish in
the Federal Register final regulations relating to the
transition to, and implementation of, the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act, as amended by this Act, and
the Wagner-Peyser Act, as amended by this Act.
(f) Expenditure of Funds During Transition.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2) and in accordance
with regulations developed under subsection (f), States,
grant recipients, administrative entities, and other
recipients of financial assistance under the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.), as
in effect before the date of enactment of this Act, may
expend funds received under such Act in order to plan and
implement programs and activities under the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act, as amended by this Act.
(2) Additional requirements.--Not more than 2 percent of
any allotment to any State from amounts appropriated under
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101
et seq.), as in effect on the day before the date of
enactment of this Act, for fiscal year 2022 may be made
available to carry out activities authorized under paragraph
(1) and not less than 50 percent of any amount used to carry
out activities authorized under paragraph (1) shall be made
available to local entities for the purposes of the
activities described in such paragraph.
SEC. 4. EFFECTIVE DATE.
(a) In General.--Except as otherwise provided in this Act,
this Act, including the amendments made by this Act, shall
take effect on the first day of the first full program year
after the date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Exceptions.--Sections 102, 103, and 108 of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, as amended by this
Act, shall apply to plans for the second full program year
after the date of enactment of this Act, including the
development, submission, and approval of such plans during
the first full program year after such date.
SEC. 5. TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The table of contents for this Act is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. References.
Sec. 3. Transition provisions.
Sec. 4. Effective date.
Sec. 5. Table of contents.
TITLE I--DEFINITIONS AND OTHER GENERAL MATTERS
Sec. 101. Definitions.
Sec. 102. WIOA table of contents.
TITLE II--WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES
Subtitle A--System Alignment
Chapter 1--State Provisions
Sec. 201. State workforce development boards.
Sec. 202. Unified State plan.
Sec. 203. Combined State plan.
Chapter 2--Local Provisions
Sec. 206. Workforce development areas.
Sec. 207. Local workforce development boards.
Sec. 208. Local plan.
Chapter 3--Performance Accountability
Sec. 211. Performance accountability system.
Subtitle B--Workforce Investment Activities and Providers
Chapter 1--Workforce Investment Activities and Providers
Sec. 221. Establishment of one-stop delivery systems.
Sec. 222. Identification of eligible providers of training services.
Chapter 2--Youth Workforce Investment Activities
Sec. 231. State allotments.
Sec. 232. Within State allocations.
Sec. 233. Use of funds for youth workforce investment activities.
Sec. 234. Summer and year-round employment for youth.
Chapter 3--Adult and Dislocated Worker Employment and Training
Activities
Sec. 241. Within State allocations.
Sec. 242. Use of funds for employment and training activities.
Chapter 4--General Workforce Investment Provisions
Sec. 251. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle C--Job Corps
Sec. 261. Amendments relating to Job Corps.
Subtitle D--National Programs
Sec. 271. Native American Programs.
Sec. 272. Migrant and seasonal farmworker programs.
Sec. 273. Technical assistance.
Sec. 274. Evaluations and research.
Sec. 275. National dislocated worker grants.
Sec. 276. YouthBuild program.
Sec. 277. Strengthening community colleges training grants program.
Sec. 278. Reentry employment opportunities.
Sec. 279. Sectoral employment through career training for occupational
readiness (sector) program.
Sec. 280. Workforce Data Quality Initiative Grants.
Sec. 281. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle E--Administration
Sec. 291. Nondiscrimination.
Sec. 292. Secretarial administrative authorities and responsibilities.
Sec. 293. Guard rails for program integrity.
TITLE III--ADULT EDUCATION AND FAMILY LITERACY
Sec. 301. Family literacy.
Sec. 302. Purpose.
Sec. 303. Definitions.
Sec. 304. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 305. Performance accountability system.
Sec. 306. State distribution of funds; matching requirement.
Sec. 307. State leadership activities.
Sec. 308. Grants and contracts for eligible providers.
Sec. 309. Local administrative cost limits.
Sec. 310. National leadership activities.
Sec. 311. Integrated English literacy and civics education.
Sec. 312. Technical corrections to other laws.
TITLE IV--GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 401. Prohibition of national database management.
Sec. 402. Accessibility.
TITLE V--AMENDMENTS TO THE WAGNER-PEYSER ACT
Sec. 501. Inclusion of Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and
American Samoa.
Sec. 502. Workforce and labor market information system.
TITLE VI--AMENDMENTS TO THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973
Sec. 601. Authorization of appropriations.
TITLE I--DEFINITIONS AND OTHER GENERAL MATTERS
SEC. 101. DEFINITIONS.
(a) Foundational Skill Needs.--Paragraph (5) of section 3
(29 U.S.C. 3102) is amended to read as follows:
``(5) Foundational skill needs.--The term `foundational
skill needs' means, with respect to an individual--
``(A) who is a youth or adult, that the individual has
English reading, writing, or computing skills at or below the
8th grade level on a generally accepted standardized test; or
``(B) who is a youth or adult, that the individual is
unable to compute or solve problems, or read, write, or speak
English, or does not possess digital literacy, interpersonal
communication, time management, critical thinking, or
financial literacy skills at a level necessary to function on
the job, in the individual's family, or in society.''.
(b) Career Pathway.--Paragraph (7) of section 3 (29 U.S.C.
3102) is amended to read as follows:
``(7) Career pathway.--The term `career pathway' means a
combination of rigorous and high-quality education, training,
and other services that--
``(A) are designed to support progression towards
attainment of one or more recognized postsecondary
credentials;
``(B) align with the skill needs of industries in the
economy of the State or regional economy involved;
``(C) include multiple entry and exit points;
``(D) prepare an individual to be successful in any of a
full range of secondary or postsecondary education options,
including apprenticeship programs;
``(E) provide career services, including counseling to
support an individual in achieving the individual's education
and career goals, and helping the individual to identify and
access a path to skills and credentials that are needed for
the educational and career advancement of the individual;
``(F) include supportive services or provides assistance in
applying for and accessing direct support services, means-
tested Federal benefit programs, or similar State, tribal, or
local benefit programs;
``(G) include, as appropriate, education offered
concurrently with and in the same context as workforce
preparation activities and training for a specific occupation
or occupational cluster (such as through work-based learning
opportunities);
``(H) organize education, training, and other services to
meet the particular needs of an individual in a manner that
accelerates the educational and career advancement of the
individual to the extent practicable;
``(I) enable an individual to attain a secondary school
diploma or its recognized equivalent as applicable, and at
least 1 recognized postsecondary credential; and
``(J) help an individual enter or advance within a specific
occupation or occupational cluster, which may include
obtaining additional recognized postsecondary credentials as
necessary for such entry or advancement.'';
(c) Dislocated Worker.--Paragraph (15) of section 3 (29
U.S.C. 3102) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) in clause (i), by adding ``and'' at the end;
(B) in clause (ii)--
(i) in subclause (I), by striking ``or'' at the end;
(ii) in subclause (II), by striking ``and'' at the end and
inserting ``or''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(III) has been an unemployed individual for 27 weeks or
more;''; and
(C) by striking clause (iii);
(2) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) and (E) as
subparagraphs (E) and (F), respectively; and
(3) by adding after subparagraph (C) the following:
``(D)(i) is currently experiencing difficulty in obtaining
or upgrading sufficient work; and
``(ii) does not have sufficient work history to qualify, or
otherwise would not qualify, for regular unemployment or
extended benefits under State or Federal law;''; and
(4) in subparagraph (E), as so redesignated, by striking
``homemaker'' and inserting ``caregiver''.
(d) Displaced Caregiver.--Paragraph (16) of section 3 (29
U.S.C. 3102) is amended--
(1) in the heading, by striking ``homemaker'' and inserting
``caregiver'';
(2) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)--
(A) by striking ``homemaker'' and inserting ``caregiver'';
(B) by striking ``family members'' and inserting ``a family
member'';
(3) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) in clause (i), by striking ``or'' at the end;
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``and'' at the end and
inserting ``or''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(iii) has involuntarily left the labor market to provide
care for a relative or dependent, which may be validated
through self-attestation in a manner consistent with section
402A(e) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070a-
11(e)); and''.
(e) Eligible Youth.--Paragraph (18) of section 3 (29 U.S.C.
3102) is amended to read as follows:
``(18) Eligible youth.--Except as provided in subtitles C
and D of title I, the term `eligible youth' means--
``(A) an opportunity youth; or
``(B) a youth who is not younger than 14 years of age and
not older than 24 years of age, who can self-attest, in a
manner consistent with section 402A(e) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070a-11(e)), that the
youth--
``(i) is attending school (as defined by State law);
``(ii) is a low-income individual; and
``(iii) is one or more of the following:
``(I) An English learner.
``(II) An individual impacted by the juvenile or adult
justice system.
``(III) A homeless individual (as defined in section
41403(6) of the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (42 U.S.C.
14043e-2(6))), a homeless child or youth (as defined in
section 725(2) of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
(42 U.S.C. 11434a(2))), a runaway, a child or youth in foster
care or who has aged out of the foster care system, a child
or youth eligible for assistance under section 477 of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 677), or a child or youth in
an out-of-home placement.
``(IV) An individual who is pregnant or parenting.
``(V) An individual with a disability.''.
(f) English Learner.--Paragraph (21) of section 3 (29
U.S.C. 3102) is amended--
(1) in the heading, by striking ``language''; and
(2) by striking ``language''.
(g) Individual With a Barrier to Employment.--Paragraph
(24) of section 3 (29 U.S.C. 3102) is amended to read as
follows:
``(24) Individual with a barrier to employment.--The term
`individual with a barrier to employment' means a member of 1
or more of the following populations:
``(A) Displaced caregivers.
``(B) Low-income individuals.
``(C) Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians, as
such terms are defined in section 166.
``(D) Individuals with disabilities, including youth who
are individuals with disabilities.
``(E) Older individuals.
``(F) Justice-involved individuals.
``(G) Homeless individuals (as defined in section 41403(6)
of the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (42 U.S.C. 14043e-
2(6))), or homeless children and youths (as defined in
section 725(2) of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
(42 U.S.C. 11434a(2))).
``(H) Youth who are in or have aged out of the foster care
system.
``(I) Individuals who are English learners, individuals who
have low levels of literacy including digital literacy, or
individuals facing substantial cultural barriers.
``(J) Eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers, as defined
in section 167(i).
``(K) Individuals who exhausted lifetime eligibility under
part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601
et seq.).
``(L) Single parents (including single pregnant women).
``(M) Long-term unemployed individuals.
``(N) The spouse of, or youth with a parent who is--
``(i) a member of the armed forces (as such term is defined
in section 101(a)(4) of title 10, United States Code);
``(ii) on active duty (as such term is defined in section
101(d)(1) of such title); and
``(iii) deployed or recently transferred.
``(O) Individuals who have been historically underserved
and marginalized as a result of race, color, national origin,
sexual orientation, or gender identity.
``(P) Such other groups as the Governor involved determines
to have barriers to employment.''.
(h) Industry or Sector Partnership.--Paragraph (26)(A)(ii)
of section 3 (29 U.S.C. 3102) is amended by striking ``as
appropriate'' and inserting ``to the extent practicable''.
(i) Labor Market Area.--Paragraph (30) of section 3 (29
U.S.C. 3102) is amended by inserting ``and the economic
development agency'' after ``Department of Labor''.
(j) Low-income Individual.--Paragraph (36) of section 3 (29
U.S.C. 3102) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) by amending subclause (I) of clause (ii) to read as
follows:
``(I) 150 percent of the poverty line (exclusive of
unemployment compensation, child support payments, payments
described in this subparagraph, and old-age and survivors
insurance benefits received under section 202 of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 402)); or'';
(B) in clause (v), by striking ``or'' at the end;
(C) in clause (vi), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
(vii) is a youth living in a high-poverty area; or
(viii) is a migrant farmworker or seasonal farmworker; and
(2) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``based on the most
recent lower living family budget issued by the Secretary''.
(k) Nontraditional Employment.--Paragraph (37) of section 3
(29 U.S.C. 3102) is amended to read as follows:
``(37) Nontraditional employment.--The term `nontraditional
employment' refers to occupations or fields of work, for
which a group of individuals (such as individuals from the
same gender, race, or ethnicity), the members of which--
``(A) comprise less than 25 percent of the individuals
employed in each such occupation or field of work; or
``(B) comprise a percentage of individuals employed in such
occupation that is lower than the percentage of the total
population comprised by such members, based on the most
recent data from the Bureau of the Census.''.
(l) Justice-involved Individual.--Paragraph (38) of section
3 (29 U.S.C. 3102) is amended--
(1) in the heading, by striking ``Offender'' and inserting
``Justice-involved individual''; and
(2) by striking ``offender'' and inserting ``justice-
involved individual''.
(m) Opportunity Youth.--Paragraph (46) of section 3 (29
U.S.C. 3102) is amended to read as follows:
``(46) Opportunity youth.--The term `opportunity youth'--
``(A) means an individual--
``(i) who is not younger than 16 years of age and not older
than 24 years of age; and
``(ii) who can self-attest to a one-stop operator or one-
stop center, in a manner consistent with section 402A(e) of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070a-11(e)) that
the individual is--
``(I) not attending any school (as defined under State
law); and
``(II) not employed or underemployed; and
``(B) except in the case of an individual who is a low-
income individual and has foundational skill needs, does not
include any individual who is a recipient of a secondary
school diploma or its recognized equivalent.''.
(n) Rapid Response Activity.--Paragraph (51) of section 3
(29 U.S.C. 3102) is amended by inserting ``in a job position
of similar wages and benefits, to the greatest extent
possible, or on the job training for a new occupation or
industry,'' after ``reemployment''.
(o) State.--Paragraph (56) of section 3 (29 U.S.C. 3102) is
amended by striking ``the Commonwealth of''.
(p) Supportive Services.--Paragraph (59) of section 3 (29
U.S.C. 3102) is amended to read as follows:
``(59) Supportive services.--The term `supportive services'
means services such as transportation, child care, dependent
care, housing, food and nutrition services, mental health
care supports, substance use disorder treatment, access to
broadband, affordable internet connection, or digital devices
with connection to the internet, assistive technology, and
needs-related payments, that are necessary to enable an
individual to participate in workforce development
activities.''.
(q) Additional Definitions.--Section 3 (29 U.S.C. 3102), as
amended by this section, is further amended--
(1) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:
``(72) Apprenticeship program.--The term `apprenticeship
program' means a program registered under the Act of August
16, 1937 (commonly known as the `National Apprenticeship
Act'; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 et seq.).
``(73) Coenrollment.--The term `coenrollment' means
simultaneous enrollment in more than one of the programs or
activities carried out by a one-stop partner in section
121(b)(1)(B).
``(74) Competency.--The term `competency' means the
attainment of knowledge, skills, and abilities in a subject
area, as specified by an occupational skill standard and
demonstrated by an appropriate written, oral, hands-on, or
other appropriate proficiency measurement.
``(75) Digital literacy skills.--The term `digital literacy
skills' has the meaning given the term in section 202(A) of
the Museum and Library Services Act (20 U.S.C. 9101(2)).
``(76) Evidence-based.--The term `evidence-based', when
used with respect to an activity, strategy, or intervention,
means an activity, strategy or intervention that--
``(A) demonstrates a statistically significant effect on
improving participant outcomes or other relevant outcomes
based on--
``(i) strong evidence from at least 1 well-designed and
well-implemented experimental study;
``(ii) moderate evidence from at least 1 well-designed and
well-implemented quasi-experimental study; or
``(iii) promising evidence from at least 1 well-designed
and well-implemented correlational study with statistical
controls for selection bias; or
``(B)(i) demonstrates a rationale based on high-quality
research findings or positive evaluation that such activity,
strategy, or intervention is likely to improve student
outcomes or other relevant outcomes; and
``(ii) includes ongoing efforts to examine the effects of
such activity, strategy, or intervention.
``(77) Labor organization.--The term `labor organization'
has the meaning given the term in section 2(5) of the
National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 152(5)), except that
such term shall also include--
``(A) any organization composed of labor organizations,
such as a labor union federation or a State or municipal
labor body; and
``(B) any organization which would be included in the
definition for such term under such section 2(5) but for the
fact that the organization represents--
``(i) individuals employed by the United States, any wholly
owned Government corporation, any Federal Reserve Bank, or
any State or political subdivision thereof;
``(ii) individuals employed by persons subject to the
Railway Labor Act (45 25 U.S.C. 151 et seq.); or
``(iii) individuals employed as agricultural laborers.
``(78) Migrant and seasonal farmworkers.--
``(A) In general.--The term `migrant and seasonal
farmworkers' means individuals who are migrant farmworkers or
seasonal farmworkers.
``(B) Migrant farmworker.--The term `migrant farmworker'
means a seasonal farmworker whose agricultural labor requires
travel to a job site such that the farmworker is not
reasonably able to return to a permanent place or residence
within the same day.
``(C) Seasonal farmworker.--Ther term `seasonal farmworker'
means an individual who is employed, or was employed in the
past 12 months, in farmwork of a seasonal or other temporary
nature.
``(79) Perkins-eligible agency.--The term `Perkins-eligible
agency' has the meaning given the term `eligible agency' in
section 3 of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical
Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2302).
``(80) Pre-apprenticeship program.--The term `pre-
apprenticeship program' means a training model or program
that--
``(A) is designed to prepare participants to enter an
apprenticeship program;
``(B) has a written agreement with 1 or more sponsors of
apprenticeship programs that would enable participants who
successfully complete the pre-apprenticeship program--
``(i) to enter into the apprenticeship program if a place
in the program is available and if the participant meets the
qualifications of the apprenticeship program; and
``(ii) to earn credits towards the apprenticeship program;
``(C) includes skills development (including a curriculum
for the skills development) aligned with industry standards
related to an apprenticeship program created in consultation
with sponsors of the apprenticeship program that are parties
to the written agreement under subparagraph (B), and that
will prepare participants by teaching the skills and
competencies needed to enter 1 or more apprenticeship
programs; and
``(D) does not displace a paid employee.
``(81) Work-based learning.--The term `work-based learning'
has the meaning given the term in section 3 of the Carl D.
Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C.
2302).
``(82) Workforce agency.--The term `workforce agency' means
the State agency, local agency, or nonprofit entity
responsible for administering workforce development
activities or the workforce development system.'';
(2) by striking paragraphs (27) and (54); and
(3) by reordering paragraphs (1) through (71), as amended
by this section, and the paragraphs added by paragraph (1) of
this subsection in alphabetical order, and renumbering such
paragraphs as so reordered.
SEC. 102. WIOA TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The table of contents in section 1(b) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act is amended--
(1) by adding at the end of the items relating to chapter 2
of subtitle B of title I the following:
``Sec. 130. Summer and year-round employment for youth.'';
(2) by striking the item relating to section 172 and
inserting the following:
``Sec. 172. Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants Program.
``Sec. 173. Reentry employment opportunities
``Sec. 174. Sectoral employment through career training for
occupational readiness (sector) program.
``Sec. 175. Workforce data quality initiative grants.
``Sec. 176. Authorization of appropriations.''; and
(3) by adding at the end of the item relating to subtitle A
of title V, the following:
``Sec. 507. Accessibility.''.
TITLE II--WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES
Subtitle A--System Alignment
CHAPTER 1--STATE PROVISIONS
SEC. 201. STATE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARDS.
(a) Membership.--Section 101(b)(1)(C) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3111(b)(1)(C)) is
amended--
(1) in clause (ii)--
(A) in the matter preceding subclause (I), by striking ``20
percent'' and inserting ``30 percent'';
(B) in subclause (III), by inserting ``, justice-involved
individuals,'' after ``veterans''; and
(C) in subclause (IV), by striking ``out-of-school'' and
inserting ``opportunity''; and
(2) in clause (iii)--
(A) in subclause (I)--
(i) by amending item (aa) to read as follows:
``(aa) shall include each lead State official with primary
responsibility for a core program, including the lead State
official for core programs authorized under title II and the
lead State official for core programs authorized under the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.);''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(cc) shall include State agency officials responsible for
the daily administration of education programs in the State,
including secondary education and adult education programs,
and chief executive officers (or their representatives) of
community colleges and other institutions of higher
education; and''; and
(B) in subclause (II)--
(i) by amending item (bb) to read as follows:
``(bb) State agency officials responsible for adult or
juvenile justice programs in the State;'';
(ii) by striking ``and'' at the end of item (cc); and
(iii) by striking item (dd); and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(dd) State agency officials responsible for vocational
rehabilitation; and
``(ee) State agency officials responsible for economic
development.''.
(b) Diverse and Distinct Representation.--Section 101(b)(2)
(29 U.S.C. 3111(b)(2)) is amended by inserting before the
period at the end the following: ``, and diverse demographic
populations of the State''.
(c) Functions.--Section 101(d) (29 U.S.C. 3111(d)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (3)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), strike ``and avoid duplication''
and insert ``avoid duplication, and leverage resources and
expertise'';
(B) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by inserting ``and expand'' after ``support''; and
(ii) by striking ``enter or retain employment'' and
inserting ``enter in, retain, or progress in employment'';
(C) in subparagraph (C)--
(i) by inserting ``and equitable'' after ``effective''; and
(ii) by inserting ``, including individuals with barriers
to employment'' after ``system'';
(D) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``identification of''
and inserting ``continued identification of and support
for'';
(E) in subparagraph (F)--
(i) by inserting ``affiliated sites,'' after ``partners,'';
and
(ii) by striking ``services and supportive'' and inserting
``services, career services, and supportive''; and
(F) in subparagraph (G), by inserting ``ongoing'' after
``support'';
(2) in paragraph (5)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``centers, relating to
the use of business outreach, partnerships, and service
delivery strategies, including'' and inserting ``centers,
including the use of evidence-based strategies for such
operations, the latest in digital technology and tools, and
the use of partnerships to expand and improve services to
jobseekers and workers, including'';
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as
subparagraphs (C) and (D), respectively;
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following:
``(B) local boards and one-stop centers on effective
outreach and enhanced services to businesses, joint labor-
management partnerships, industry associations, and industry
or sector partnerships, to provide employment and training
activities reflective of regional economic priorities and the
skill and competency needs of in-demand industry sectors and
occupations;''; and
(D) in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated, by striking
``adaptability, to'' and inserting ``adaptability to reduce
the time required for attainment of a recognized
postsecondary credential or reskilling, and''; and
(3) in paragraph (7)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``technological improvements to facilitate access'' and
inserting ``improvements in the use of digital technology to
facilitate and expand access'';
(B) by amending subparagraphs (B) and (C) to read as
follows:
``(B) accelerate--
``(i) the acquisition of skills, competencies, and
recognized postsecondary credentials by participants with
respect to an in-demand industry sector or occupation in a
State or local area; and
``(ii) the matching of participants to career pathways and
employment opportunities based on the skills, competencies,
and recognized postsecondary credentials attained by such
participants;
``(C) strengthen the professional development of providers
and workforce professionals, ensuring professional
development activities include--
``(i) trauma-informed practices and human-centered design
that serve individuals with barriers to employment;
``(ii) preparing providers and workforce professionals to
use the latest technology;
``(iii) accessing and understanding labor market data; and
``(iv) ensuring equitable access and service delivery for
individuals who have been historically underserved,
marginalized, and adversely affected as a result of race,
ethnicity, or gender, including training on customer-centered
service delivery, racial bias, cultural competence,
occupational stereotyping, and strategies for increasing
participant and worker voices; and''; and
(C) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``with disabilities
and individuals'' and inserting ``with barriers to
employment, including individuals with disabilities, and to
individuals''.
SEC. 202. UNIFIED STATE PLAN.
Section 102 (29 U.S.C. 3112) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) Strategic planning elements.--The unified State plan
shall include strategic planning elements consisting of a
strategic vision and goals for preparing an educated and
skilled workforce, that include--
``(A) a summary and conclusions of analysis conducted of
the economic conditions in the State using labor market
information, including--
``(i) existing and emerging in-demand industry sectors and
occupations;
``(ii) projected industries or sectors within the State
expected to decline or face significant changes in employment
opportunities; and
``(iii) the employment needs of employers, including a
description of the knowledge, skills, competencies, and
abilities currently needed and projected to be needed, in
those industries and occupations;
``(B) a summary and conclusions of analysis conducted of
the current workforce using labor market information,
employment and unemployment data, labor market trends, and
the educational and skill levels of the workforce, including
individuals with barriers to employment, in the State;
``(C) an analysis of the workforce development activities
(including supportive services, career services, education,
and training) in the State, in coordination with the Perkins-
eligible agency in the State, in order to address the
identified education and skill needs of the workforce and the
employment needs of employers in the State, including--
``(i) an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of such
activities;
``(ii) the capacity of State entities to provide such
activities that meet the specific needs of youth, including
opportunity youth, and individuals with barriers to
employment; and
``(iii) an analysis of the career pathways offered within
the State, including an analysis of how such pathways are
aligned to the education and training needs of the current
and future workforce within the State, and the development
and expansion of career pathways to meet current and future
workforce needs;
``(D) a description of--
``(i) the State's strategic vision and goals for preparing
an educated and skilled workforce, including preparing youth
(including opportunity youth), and individuals with barriers
to employment and for meeting the skilled workforce needs of
employers (including in existing and emerging in-demand
industry sectors and occupations as identified by the State),
and goals of the State relating to performance accountability
measures based on primary indicators of performance described
in section 116(b)(2)(A), in order to support economic growth
and economic self-sufficiency;
``(ii) how the State will assess the overall effectiveness
of the workforce investment system in the State;
``(iii) the career pathways offered within the State,
including an analysis of how such pathways are aligned to the
education and training needs of the current and future
workforce within the State, and the development and expansion
of career pathways to meet current and future workforce
needs;
``(iv) how the State will work with local areas to achieve
equitable service delivery and outcomes for individuals with
barriers to employment, including employment and earnings
outcomes by applying the information provided in the State
equity report, for such State under section 116(f); and
``(v) the industry or sector partnerships within the State
and the opportunities for expansion of such partnerships to
support sector-specific initiatives; and
``(E) a description of strategies the State intends to
adopt to achieve the vision and each goal described in
subparagraph (D) through--
``(i) joint planning, alignment, coordination, and
leveraging of funds between--
``(I) core programs under this Act; and
``(II) other Federal programs, as determined appropriate by
the State, such as--
``(aa) programs and activities under the Carl D. Perkins
Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2301 et
seq.);
``(bb) programs under the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.);
``(cc) programs under the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.);
``(dd) programs under the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1001 et seq.);
``(ee) apprenticeship programs; and
``(ff) the Medicaid program under title XIX of the Social
Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.); and
``(ii) the provision of information about access to
available State assistance or assistance under related
Federal programs, including such assistance under--
``(I) section 6(d) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (7
U.S.C. 2015(d));
``(II) section 3672(c)(1) of title 38, United States Code;
``(III) section 231 of the Second Chance Act of 2007 (34
U.S.C. 60541); and
``(IV) the State Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
programs under part A of title IV of the Social Security
Act.'';
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs
(3) and (4), respectively; and
(C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) Plan development.--
``(A) In general.--The Governor and State board shall--
``(i) develop the unified State plan in consultation with--
``(I) representatives of local boards and chief elected
officials;
``(II) the community colleges in the State;
``(III) eligible providers of training services, including
eligible providers of nontraditional training services and
eligible providers of apprenticeship programs and pre-
apprenticeship programs, and eligible providers of on-the-job
training, customized training, incumbent worker training,
internships, paid or unpaid work experience opportunities, or
transitional jobs, secondary schools and institutions of
higher education (including institutions offering career and
technical education programs, minority-serving institutions,
and historically Black colleges and universities), and
providers of supported employment services;
``(IV) interested community representatives, including
community-based organizations;
``(V) individuals with barriers to employment or
organizations representing such individuals;
``(VI) representatives of business and industry, including
representatives of small business and representatives of
industry and sector partnerships in the State;
``(VII) representatives of labor organizations and joint
labor-management organizations in the State;
``(VIII) representatives of agencies serving opportunity
youth, and homeless children and youth, including the State
Coordinator for Education of Homeless Children and Youths
established or designated under section 722(d)(3) of the
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C.
11432(d)(3));
``(IX) representatives of Indian tribes and tribal
organizations located in, or providing services in, the
State;
``(X) representatives of the Perkins-eligible agency;
``(XI) representatives of the adult education and literacy
community;
(XII) national intermediaries and organizations that focus
on underserved communities and communities of color; and
``(XIII) other primary stakeholders; and
``(ii) consult the heads of other State agencies with
respect to the development of the unified State plan,
including the State designated unit under subparagraph (A) of
section 101(a)(2) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
``(B) Public comment.--
``(i) Written comments.--Not less than 60 days prior to
submission of the unified State plan, the Governor shall
provide stakeholders described in subparagraph (A)(i) with
the opportunity to provide written comments on the unified
State plan that shall--
``(I) be included in the final unified State plan; and
``(II) include comments on whether and how the unified
State plan--
``(aa) meets the requirements of this Act;
``(bb) supports the improvement of performance of
individuals with barriers to employment;
``(cc) supports the employment needs of the State
(including the business community, labor organizations,
education and training providers, and other relevant
parties), including in the design and content of the
training, work experience, career exploration, on-the-job
training, and other career and training activities (including
information related to employment opportunities, wage rates,
benefits, career pathways, and in-demand industry sectors and
occupations); and
``(dd) takes into account collective bargaining agreements
that include training or subsidized employment, including how
the elements of such training or employment may affect the
bargaining agreement (such as wages, benefits, and other
factors).
``(ii) State workforce agency response.--Each unified State
plan may include a written response to the comments provided
by stakeholders under clause (i), which may be in the form of
a general response to such comments.'';
(D) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated--
(i) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) in clause (iv), by striking ``colleges and area career
and technical education schools'' and inserting ``colleges,
secondary schools and area career and technical education
schools, and adult education providers under title II'';
(II) in clause (v), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(III) by amending clause (vi) to read as follows:
``(vi) how the State's strategy will--
``(I) improve access to activities leading to a recognized
postsecondary credential (including credentials that are
portable, stackable, and aligned to high-skill, high-wage, or
in-demand industry sectors and occupations); and
``(II) assess and validate the skills and competencies of
such credentials and alignment to new or existing career
pathways; and''; and
(IV) by adding at the end the following:
``(vii) how the State will work with local areas to achieve
equitable service delivery and outcomes for individuals with
barriers to employment by applying the information provided
in the State equity report for such State under section
116(f).'';
(ii) in subparagraph (D)--
(I) in clause (i)(II), by striking ``local boards and chief
elected officials in determining the planning regions'' and
inserting ``State economic development agency to support
alignment to the extent practicable, local boards and chief
elected officials in determining the planning regions and
work of such regions''; and
(II) in clause (ii)--
(aa) in subclause (V), by inserting ``and'' at the end; and
(bb) by adding at the end the following:
``(VI) how the eligible agency will promote the
professionalization of adult education through the adoption
of full-time staffing models, including, at the eligible
agency's discretion, how the eligible agency will give
funding priority to local providers that have adopted such
models;''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (E)--
(I) in clause (iii)--
(aa) in subclause (I), by inserting ``, ensuring that
services and resources are accessible throughout the State
and local areas, including in urban, rural and suburban
areas'' after ``such programs''; and
(bb) by amending subclause (II) to read as follows:
``(II) that the State obtained input into the development
of the unified State plan and provided an opportunity for
comment on the plan by the individuals listed in subsection
(b)(2)(A)(i), and that the unified State plan is published on
a publicly accessible website;''; and
(II) by striking ``and'' at the end of clause (ix);
(III) in clause (x), by striking the period at the end and
inserting ; and; and
(IV) by adding at the end the following:
``(xi) that the State will not prohibit self-attestation in
a manner consistent with section 402A(e) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070a-11(e)) as a means for
determining eligibility for a program or service under this
Act of any individual who is so self-attesting.''; and
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act'' and inserting ``the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022''; and
(B) by striking paragraph (4)
SEC. 203. COMBINED STATE PLAN.
Section 103(a)(2) (29 U.S.C. 3113(a)(2)) is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(L) State Apprenticeship Agencies, as applicable.''.
CHAPTER 2--LOCAL PROVISIONS
SEC. 206. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AREAS.
(a) Regions.--Section 106(a)(1) (29 U.S.C. 3121(a)(1)) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``this Act'' and inserting ``the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022'' ; and
(2) by inserting ``, the State economic development agency,
the State apprenticeship agency, as applicable,'' after
``local boards''.
(b) Local Areas.--Section 106(b) (29 U.S.C. 3121(b)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by amending subparagraph (A)(ii) to read as follows:
``(ii) after consultation with the State economic
development agency, chief elected officials, and local
boards, and consideration of comments received through the
public comment process as described in section
102(b)(2)(E)(iii)(II).'';
(B) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) in clause (ii), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in clause (iii)--
(I) by striking ``higher education and'' and inserting
``higher education,''; and
(II) by striking the period at the end and inserting ``,
and apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs; and'';
and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) improve service delivery and efficiency under the
workforce development system, and provide for sufficient
access to comprehensive one-stop centers and affiliated
sites.''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) Consultations.--The State economic development
agency, chief elected officials, and local boards shall
provide such consultations as requested by the Governor in a
timely manner.'';
(2) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Initial designation.--During the first 2 full program
years following the date of enactment of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022, the Governor shall
approve a request for initial designation as a local area
from any area that--
``(A) was designated as a local area for purposes of this
Act for the 2-year period preceding the date of enactment of
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022;
``(B) performed successfully; and
``(C) sustained fiscal integrity.''; and
(3) in paragraph (4), by adding at the end the following:
``Such designation may include the combining of areas that
were designated as local areas under this subsection before
the date of enactment of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act of 2022 within a region described in
subsection (a), to form a new, redesignated local area under
this subsection, if all chief elected officials and local
boards in the affected areas agree to such a
redesignation.''.
(c) Regional Coordination.--Section 106(c)(1) (29 U.S.C.
3121(c)(1)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (F), by inserting ``and prioritizing
such services for individuals with barriers to employment,''
after ``services,'';
(2) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(3) in subparagraph (H), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(I) the analysis of in-demand skills and competencies
within the region, and corresponding wages offered for jobs
requiring such skills and competencies.''.
(d) Definitions.--Section 106(e) (29 U.S.C. 3121(e)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``(or, if applicable,
core indicators of performance described in section
136(b)(2)(A) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, as in
effect the day before the date of enactment of this Act)'';
and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``(or, if applicable,
title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 as in effect
prior to the effective date of such subtitle B)''.
SEC. 207. LOCAL WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARDS.
(a) Membership.--Section 107(b) (29 U.S.C. 3122(b)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking ``20''
and inserting ``30''; and
(ii) in clause (iv)--
(I) by inserting ``eligible youth and'' after ``include'';
and
(II) by striking ``out-of-school'' and inserting
``opportunity''; and
(B) in subparagraph (C)(ii), by striking the semicolon and
inserting ``; and'';
(C) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (D)(v);
(D) by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (E)
and inserting ``; and''; and
(E) by adding at the end the following:
``(F) the members of each local board shall represent
diverse demographic populations of the local area.'';
(2) in paragraph (3), by adding at the end the following:
``Each chairperson shall ensure that each new board member is
provided with information on the local area, employment
opportunities (including youth employment opportunities),
industry or sector partnerships, eligible providers or
training services, and demographic information of
participants served including individuals with barriers to
employment.''; and
(3) in paragraph (4)(A)--
(A) in clause (ii), by inserting ``, if applicable,
YouthBuild operators, and'' after ``include'';
(B) in clause (iii), by inserting before the period at the
end the following: ``, which include individuals with
disabilities or representatives of organizations serving
individuals with disabilities'' ; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) A standing committee to provide information to
assist with planning, operational, and other issues relating
to the provision of adult education services, which shall
include providers of adult education carried out under title
II of this Act.
``(v) A standing committee to provide information related
to work-based learning opportunities, which shall include a
representative from a provider of work-based learning,
including a provider of related instruction under an
apprenticeship.
``(vi) A standing committee, which shall include
representatives of workers and their communities (including
labor and community-based organizations), to provide
information to assist with responding to rapid changes in the
economy such as--
``(I) mass layoffs;
``(II) unexpected increases in unemployment; and
``(III) introduction of new employment opportunities,
including the assessment of the in-demand skills and
competencies of the local area.''.
(b) Appointment and Certification of Board.--Section 107(c)
(29 U.S.C. 3122(c)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by adding at the end the following:
``(D) Publication.--The chief elected official or officials
appointing the board for a local area shall make publicly
available the membership of the board (including information
identifying how the membership composition requirements of
subsection (b) have been met (other than the requirements of
paragraph (2)(F) of such subsection)), including by posting
that information on the website of the appropriate unit of
local government included in the local area.''; and
(2) in paragraph (4)(A), by striking ``and (2)'' and
inserting ``, (2), and (3)''.
(c) Functions of Local Board.--Section 107(d) (29 U.S.C.
3122(d)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking ``skills'' and
inserting ``, skills, and competencies'';
(2) in paragraph (3), in the first sentence, by inserting
``, including supportive services offered by community-based
organizations,'' after ``resources'';
(3) in paragraph (4)--
(A) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(B) by amending subparagraph (C) to read as follows:
``(C) to ensure that workforce investment activities meet
the skilled workforce needs of employers and support economic
growth in the region by enhancing communication,
coordination, and collaboration among employers, economic
development entities, and service providers, including by
developing and implementing proven or promising strategies
for--
``(i) meeting the employment, skill, and competency needs
of workers and employers (including the establishment of
industry and sector partnerships) and supporting skill and
competency-based hiring;
``(ii) improving access to jobs in high-skill, high-wage,
or in-demand industry sectors and occupations, to expand
employment and career advancement opportunities for workforce
development system participants in in-demand industry sectors
or occupations; and
``(iii) recruiting a more diverse workforce.''; and
(C) by striking subparagraph (D);
(4) in paragraph (5)--
(A) by striking ``and postsecondary'' and inserting ``,
postsecondary, and adult'';
(B) by inserting ``, systems, and programs'' after
``pathways''; and
(C) by inserting ``and opportunity youth'' after ``to
employment'';
(5) by amending subparagraph (A) of paragraph (6) to read
as follows:
``(A) identify and promote strategies and initiatives to
the one-stop delivery system for meeting the needs of
employers, workers, and jobseekers (including individuals
with barriers to employment) in the local workforce
development system, including--
``(i) providing physical and programmatic accessibility, in
accordance with section 188, if applicable, and applicable
provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42
U.S.C. 12101 et seq.); and
``(ii) identifying and implementing strategies to assure
service delivery is accessible to all eligible individuals,
including individuals with barriers to employment; and'';
(6) by amending paragraph (7) to read as follows:
``(7) Technology.--The local board shall develop strategies
for using technology to maximize the accessibility and
effectiveness of the local workforce development system,
including in remote areas, for employers, workers, and
jobseekers, by--
``(A) identifying and integrating new digital technologies
into business services, career navigation, and employment and
training activities, and working with the State to offer
services virtually or through in-person service delivery
strategies that are augmented through the use of technology;
``(B) facilitating connections among the intake and case
management information systems of the one-stop partner
programs to support a comprehensive workforce development
system in the local area, including through coordination and
collaboration with one-stop partner programs to support
coenrollment of programs, as applicable;
``(C) identifying strategies for better meeting the needs
of individuals with barriers to employment, including
strategies that augment traditional service delivery, and
increase access to services and programs of the one-stop
delivery system, such as improving digital literacy skills,
assessments of skills and competencies, and prior learning
assessments assisted through the use of technology; and
``(D) leveraging resources and capacity within the local
workforce development system, including resources and
capacity for services for individuals with barriers to
employment.'';
(7) in paragraph (10)--
(A) in subparagraph (B)(ii), by inserting ``as described in
section 122'' after ``providers'';
(B) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``and make
information about such providers publicly available,
including to community-based organizations'' after ``local
area''; and
(C) in subparagraph (D), by inserting ``and make
information about such providers publicly available,
including to community-based organizations'' after
``contracts'';
(8) in paragraph (11)(A), by inserting ``, local
educational agencies, institutions of higher education
located in the local area, including minority-serving
institutions, historically Black colleges and universities,
and Tribally controlled colleges or universities, as
appropriate,'' after ``2302))''; and
(9) in paragraph (12)(A), by striking ``for the'' and
inserting ``for all funds not otherwise reserved by the State
allocated to local areas under section 128(b) and section
133(b), for local youth workforce activities authorized under
section 129(c), and for local employment and training
activities authorized under subsection (b) of section 134,
and''.
(d) Sunshine Provision.--Section 107(e) (29 U.S.C. 3122(e))
is amended by inserting ``that conforms at a minimum, to
Level AA of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 of
the Web Accessibility Initiative (or any successor
guidelines)'' after ``means''.
(e) Staff.--Section 107(f) (29 U.S.C. 3122(f)) is amended--
(1) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Qualifications.--The local board shall establish and
apply a set of qualifications for the position of director
that ensures that the individual selected has the requisite
knowledge, skills, and abilities, to meet identified
benchmarks and effectively carry out the functions of the
local board.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Professional development.--The local board shall
ensure the provision of training to local board and one-stop
delivery system staff on--
``(A) the expanded use of digital technology and tools for
augmenting and improving the delivery of services to
participants and employers;
``(B) the implementation of evidence-based strategies, such
as career pathways and sector initiatives, and trauma-
informed and gender-responsive counseling for meeting the
needs of individuals with barriers to employment; and
``(C) how to improve and ensure equitable service delivery
and outcomes for individuals who have been historically
underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected as a result
of race, ethnicity, age, or gender, including training on
customer-centered service delivery, gender and racial bias,
cultural competence, occupational stereotyping, and
strategies for increasing participant and worker voice.''.
SEC. 208. LOCAL PLAN.
Section 108(b) (29 U.S.C. 3123(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in clause (ii), by inserting ``and'' at the end; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(iii) projected industries or sectors within the local
area expected to decline or face significant changes in
employment opportunities;'';
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and skills'' and
inserting ``, skills, and competencies''; and
(C) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``(and unemployment)''
and inserting ``(unemployment, and underemployment)'';
(2) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) a description and assessment of the workforce
development system in the local area that identifies the
programs that are included in that system and how the local
board will work with the entities carrying out core programs
and other workforce development programs to support alignment
of services, including--
``(A) services provided under programs that support the
strategies identified in the State plan under section
102(b)(1)(E), including--
``(i) programs of study authorized under the Carl D.
Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C.
2301 et seq.);
``(ii) title II (relating to adult education and family
literacy activities), including a description of how the
local board will carry out, consistent with subparagraphs (A)
and (B)(i) of section 107(d)(11) and section 232, the review
of local applications submitted under title II;
``(iii) title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 720 et seq.); and
``(iv) apprenticeship programs; and
``(B) the statewide rapid response activities under section
134(a)(2)(A);'';
(3) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``and expansion'' after
``development'';
(4) in paragraph (4)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking ``, including small
employers and employers in in-demand industry sectors and
occupations, in workforce development programs'' and
inserting ``in workforce development programs, including
small employers, employers in high-skill, high-wage, or in-
demand industry sectors and occupations, and employers in
industry or sector partnerships'';
(ii) in clause (iii), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(iii) in clause (iv), by inserting ``, and benefits, such
as food and housing security'' after ``unemployment insurance
programs''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(v) improve the ability of individuals to make informed
decisions about career pathways and training services,
employment opportunities and job quality, and workplace
rights and responsibilities; and''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``and individuals''
after ``employers'';
(5) in paragraph (6)--
(A) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``, including digital
technology,'' after ``technology'';
(B) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``and'' at the end;
and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(E) a description of how the one-stop delivery system,
including one-stop operators and one-stop partners, will work
with employers to support the hiring of individuals with
barriers to employment to ensure equitable service delivery
and participant outcomes; and
``(F) a description of how one-stop centers are
implementing and transitioning to an integrated, technology-
enabled intake and case management information system for
programs carried out under this Act and programs carried out
by one-stop partners;'';
(6) by striking paragraphs (7) and (8);
(7) by redesignating paragraphs (9) through (12) as
paragraphs (7) through (10), respectively;
(8) in paragraph (7), as so redesignated, by striking
``assessment of'' and inserting ``comprehensive local needs
assessment, as described in section 129(a)(2) of'';
(9) by striking paragraph (13);
(10) by redesignating paragraphs (14) through (20) as
paragraphs (11) through (17), respectively;
(11) by inserting after paragraph (17), as so redesignated,
the following:
``(18) that the local area will not prohibit self-
attestation in a manner consistent with section 402A(e) of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070a-11(e)) as a
means for determining eligibility for a program or service
under this Act of any individual who is so self-attesting;
and'';
(12) by striking paragraph (21); and
(13) by redesignating paragraph (22) as paragraph (19).
CHAPTER 3--PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY
SEC. 211. PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM.
Section 116 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3141) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by amending clause (i) to read as follows:
``(i) In general.--The State primary indicators of
performance for activities provided under the adult and
dislocated worker programs authorized under chapter 3 of
subtitle B, the program of adult education and family
literacy activities authorized under title II, the employment
services program authorized under sections 1 through 13 of
the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.) (except that
subclauses (V) and (VI) shall not apply to such program), and
the program authorized under title I of the Rehabilitation
Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.) (other than section 112
or part C of that title (29 U.S.C. 732, 741)), shall consist
of--
``(I) the percentage of program participants who are in
unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after exit
from the program;
``(II) the percentage of program participants who are in
unsubsidized employment during the fourth quarter after exit
from the program;
``(III) the median earnings of program participants who are
in unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after
exit from the program;
``(IV) the median earnings of program participants who are
in unsubsidized employment during the fourth quarter after
exit from the program;
``(V) the percentage of program participants who obtain a
recognized postsecondary credential, or a secondary school
diploma or its recognized equivalent (subject to clause
(iii)), during participation in or within 1 year after exit
from the program; and
``(VI) the percentage of program participants who are in an
education or training program that leads to a recognized
postsecondary credential or employment, and who are achieving
measurable skill gains toward such a credential or
employment.'';
(II) in clause (iii)--
(aa) by striking ``clause (i)(IV)'' each place it appears
and inserting ``clause (i)(V)''; and
(bb) by inserting before the period at the end the
following: ``, unless such participants are enrolled in
services under title II''; and
(III) by striking clause (iv);
(ii) by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
``(B) Additional indicators.--
``(i) State identified.--A State may identify in the State
plan additional performance accountability indicators.
``(ii) Secretary identified.--The Secretary may identify
additional indicators related to the quality of participants'
unsubsidized employment after exit from a program, including
factors such as availability of paid time off, health, and
retirement benefits, workplace safety and non-discrimination
standards, predictable and stable work schedule, stackable
credentials, and advancement opportunities.''; and
(B) in paragraph (3)(A)--
(i) by amending clause (iii) to read as follows:
``(iii) Identification in state plan.--The Secretary of
Labor in conjunction with the Secretary of Education shall--
``(I) propose expected levels of performance for each of
the corresponding primary indicators of performance for each
of the programs described in clause (ii) for each State for
the first 2 program years covered by the State plan, and for
the third and fourth program years covered by the State plan,
which shall be consistent with the factors listed under
clause (v); and
``(II) publish on a publicly accessible website--
``(aa) the statistical model developed under clause (viii),
and the methodology used to develop each such proposed
expected level of performance; and
``(bb) each such proposal.'';
(ii) in clause (v)--
(I) in subclause (II)(bb)--
(aa) by striking ``ex-offender status, and welfare
dependency'' and inserting ``justice involvement, and receipt
of public assistance''; and
(bb) by inserting before the semicolon at the end ``, and
other factors the Secretary determines relevant'';
(II) by amending subclause (III) to read as follows:
``(III) take into account the extent to which the levels
involved promote continuous improvement, which may reflect an
increase in the level of performance accountability measures,
a change in service strategy and delivery, or a change in the
participants served by such State and ensure optimal return
on the investment of Federal funds; and''; and
(iii) by amending clause (viii) to read as follows:
``(viii) Statistical adjustment model.--The Secretary of
Labor and the Secretary of Education, after consultation with
the representatives described in paragraph (4)(B), shall--
``(I) develop and disseminate an objective statistical
model that will be used to make the adjustments in the State
adjusted levels of performance for actual economic conditions
and characteristics of participants under clauses (v) and
(vii); and
``(II) publicly disclose the factors included in the
statistical adjustment model in a report describing the model
used to determine the adjusted levels of performance.'';
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (F), by inserting ``, supportive,''
after ``career'';
(ii) in subparagraph (H), by inserting ``and percentage''
after ``number''; and
(iii) by redesignating subparagraph (L) as subparagraph
(M); and
(iv) by inserting after subparagraph (K) the following:
``(L) information on earnings of participants 4 quarters
prior to receiving career and training services and, to the
extent data is available, in years 2 and 3 after exit from
career and training services;'';
(B) in paragraph (6)--
(i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
``(A) State performance reports.--The Secretary of Labor
and the Secretary of Education shall annually make available
the performance reports for States containing the information
described in paragraph (2), which shall include making such
reports available--
``(i) digitally using transparent, linked, open, and
interoperable data formats that are human readable and
machine actionable such that the data from these reports can
be easily included in web-based tools and services supporting
search, discovery, comparison, analysis, navigation, and
guidance;
``(ii) electronically in easily understandable formats; and
``(iii) in paper-based formats, as necessary.'';
(ii) by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
``(B) Local area and eligible training provider performance
reports.--The State shall, on an annual basis, make available
the performance reports for the local areas containing the
information described in paragraph (3) and the performance
reports for eligible providers of training services
containing the information described in paragraph (4), which
shall include making such reports available in each of the
formats described in clauses (i) through (iii) of
subparagraph (A).''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``the Workforce''
and inserting ``Labor'';
(3) by redesignating subsections (f), (g), (h), and (i) as
subsections (g), (h), (i), and (j), respectively;
(4) by inserting the following after subsection (e):
``(f) State Equity Reports.--
``(1) In general.--Using funds authorized under a core
program and made available to carry out this section, the
State, in coordination with local boards in the State and the
State agencies responsible for the administration of the core
programs, shall annually prepare and submit to the Secretary
a report on the progress of the State in achieving equitable
outcomes in the State levels of performance relating to
indicators described in subsection (b)(2)(A) for a program
for any program year, which shall--
``(A) identify and quantify any disparities or gaps in
performance on such levels of performance for each such
indicator between--
``(i) individuals with barriers to employment; and
``(ii) individuals without such barriers to employment; and
``(B) include a quantifiable description of the progress
that individuals with barriers to employment have made in
meeting such levels of performance.
``(2) Information disaggregation.--The information provided
in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1) shall be
disaggregated--
``(A) by industry sector; and
``(B) by each subpopulation of individuals with barriers to
employment (as defined in section 3).
``(3) Information dissemination.--The Secretary shall make
the information contained in such reports available to the
general public in a manner consistent with the requirements
described in subsection (d)(6)(A).''.
Subtitle B--Workforce Investment Activities and Providers
CHAPTER 1--WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES AND PROVIDERS
SEC. 221. ESTABLISHMENT OF ONE-STOP DELIVERY SYSTEMS.
(a) One-Stop Partners.--Section 121(b) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3151(b)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking ``, including
payment of the infrastructure costs of one-stop centers in
accordance with subsection (h)'' and inserting ``(other than
payment of the physical and virtual infrastructure costs of
one-stop centers in accordance with subsection (h), except as
provided under subsection (c)(2)(A)(ii)(II) in the memorandum
of understanding)'';
(B) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by inserting ``and'' at the end of clause (xi);
(ii) by striking clause (xii); and
(iii) by redesignating clause (xiii) as clause (xii); and
(C) in subparagraph (C)(ii)(II), by striking ``and the
Secretary of Health and Human Services'' and inserting ``,
the Secretary of Education, and the Secretary of Health and
Human Services''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)(B)--
(A) by redesignating clause (vii) as clause (viii);
(B) in clause (vi), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon; and
(C) by inserting after clause (vi) the following:
``(vii) employment and training programs carried out by the
Economic Development Administration; and''.
(b) Memorandum of Understanding.--Section 121(c)(2)(A) of
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
3151(c)(2)(A)) is amended--
(1) in clause (ii)--
(A) in subclause (I) by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(B) by amending subclause (II) to read as follows:
``(II) funding of physical and virtual infrastructure costs
of one-stop centers in accordance with subsection (h)(3), if
funding received by the local area under subsection (h)(2) is
insufficient to cover such costs;''; and
(2) by amending clause (iv) to read as follows:
``(iv) methods to provide appropriate access of services
(including access to technology and materials) to workers,
youth, and individuals with barriers to employment through
the one-stop delivery system to address the needs of such
workers and youth, and to increase access, particularly in
underserved and rural communities; and''.
(c) One-Stop Operators.--Section 121(d) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3151(d)) is
amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``process; and'' and
inserting ``process, except as authorized by paragraph (4),
and in manner that ensures that such designation or
certification does not displace (including a partial
displacement, such as a reduction in the hours of nonovertime
work, wages, or employment benefits) any currently employed
public employees under a merit-system; and''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by amending clause (i) to read as follows:
``(i) a secondary school, an area career and technical
education school, or an institution of higher education;'';
(ii) in clause (v), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(iii) by redesignating clause (vi) as clause (vii);
(iv) by inserting after clause (v) the following:
``(vi) a public library; and''; and
(v) in clause (vii), as so redesignated, by inserting ``or
joint labor-management'' after ``a labor'';
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs
(5) and (6);
(3) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the one-
stop operator--
``(A) shall include managing the physical and virtual
infrastructure and operations of the one-stop system in the
local area, and facilitating coordination among the partners
in the one-stop system; and
``(B) may include the provision of direct services to job
seekers and employers.
``(4) Local board as one-stop operator.--Subject to
approval from the Governor and in accordance with any other
eligibility criteria established by the State, a local board
may serve as a one-stop operator consistent with the
requirements of this subsection.''; and
(4) in paragraph (5), as so redesignated, by striking ``and
secondary schools''.
(d) Establishment of One-Stop Delivery System.--Section
121(e)(2) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3151(e)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)--
(A) by inserting ``in person or virtually'' after
``accessible''; and
(B) by inserting ``and in a manner that improves
efficiency, coordination, and quality in the delivery of one-
stop partner services'' after ``State'';
(2) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) in clause (i), by inserting ``(such as a community
college campus, a secondary school, an area career and
technical education school, or a public library) and through
community-based organizations'' after ``affiliated sites'';
and
(B) in clause (ii)(II) by adding ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(3) in subparagraph (C)--
(A) by inserting ``virtual or physical'' after ``may
have''; and
(B) by striking ``; and'' and inserting a period; and
(4) by striking subparagraph (D).
(e) Certification and Continuous Improvement of One-stop
Centers.--Section 121(g)(2)(A) of the Workforce Innovation
and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3151(g)(2)(A)) is amended by
striking ``subsections (h)(1)'' and inserting ``subsections
(h)(3)''.
(f) Funding of One-stop Infrastructure.--Section 121(h) of
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
3151(h)) is amended to read as follows:
``(h) Funding of One-stop Infrastructure.--
``(1) In general.--For any program year, not more than 10
percent of the funds allotted under sections 127 and 132, and
section 6 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49e), and not
more than 2 percent of the funds allotted under section 211,
shall be used to fund the costs of infrastructure of one-stop
centers in local areas, and the percentage of an allotment
under any such section shall be proportionate to the use of
the one-stop delivery system by the programs funded by such
section.
``(2) Allocation by governor.--
``(A) In general.--From the funds provided under paragraph
(1), the Governor shall allocate the funds to local areas in
accordance with the formula established under subparagraph
(B) for the purposes of paying the costs of infrastructure of
one-stop centers.
``(B) Allocation formula.--The State board shall develop a
formula to be used by the Governor to allocate the funds
provided under paragraph (1) to local areas. The formula
shall be based on factors including the number of one-stop
centers in a local area, the intensity of services provided
by such centers, the population served by such centers, the
services provided by such centers, and other factors relating
to the performance of such centers that the State board
determines are appropriate.
``(C) Costs of infrastructure.--In this subsection, the
term ``costs of infrastructure'', used with respect to a one-
stop center, means the nonpersonnel costs that are necessary
for the general operation of the one-stop center (whether for
in-person or virtual service delivery), including the rental
costs of the facilities, the costs of utilities and
maintenance, equipment (including assessment-related products
and assistive technology for individuals with disabilities),
and technology to facilitate access to the one-stop center,
including the center's planning and outreach activities.
``(3) Additional funding.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of a local area for which
funds allocated under paragraph (2) are insufficient to cover
the total costs of infrastructure of one-stop centers in such
local area, the local board, chief elected officials, and
one-stop partners described in subsection (b)(1) in such
local area may fund such costs through methods agreed on by
the local board, chief elected officials, and one-stop
partners (and described in the memorandum of understanding
described in subsection (c)).
``(B) Guidance for infrastructure funding.--The Governor,
after consultation with chief elected officials, local
boards, and the State board, and consistent with the guidance
and policies provided by the State board under subparagraphs
(B) and (C)(i) of section 101(d)(7), shall provide, for the
use of local areas under subparagraph (A)--
``(i) guidelines for State-administered one-stop partner
programs, for determining such programs' contributions to a
one-stop delivery system, based on such programs'
proportionate use of such system consistent with chapter II
of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations (or any corresponding
similar regulation or ruling), including determining funding
for the costs of infrastructure, which contributions shall be
negotiated pursuant to the memorandum of understanding under
subsection (c); and
``(ii) guidance to assist local boards, chief elected
officials, and one-stop partners in local areas in
determining equitable and stable methods of funding the costs
of infrastructure of one-stop centers in such areas.''.
(g) Other Funds.--Section 121(i)(2) (29 U.S.C. 3151(i)(2))
is amended by striking ``basic skills'' and inserting
``foundational skill needs''.
SEC. 222. IDENTIFICATION OF ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS OF TRAINING
SERVICES.
(a) Criteria and Information Requirements.--Section 122(b)
(29 U.S.C. 3152(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by amending the matter preceding subparagraph (A) to
read as follows: ``The criteria established pursuant to
subsection (a) shall include criteria on each of the
following:''; and
(B) in subparagraph (A)(i), striking ``performance
accountability measures'' and inserting ``levels of
performance achieved on the indicators described in section
116'';
(C) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by striking ``The need to ensure'' and inserting
``Ensuring''; and
(ii) by inserting ``and online learning platforms'' after
``technology'';
(D) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows:
``(D)(i) With respect to each training program of each such
provider--
``(I) the degree to which the training program--
``(aa) relates to in-demand industry sectors and
occupations in the State or local areas within the State,
based on analysis of labor market data and direct engagement
with local employers; and
``(bb) satisfies any applicable educational requirements
for professional licensure or certification, including
licensure or certification examinations needed to practice or
find employment in the sectors or occupations for which the
program prepares the individual in the State; and
``(II) the expected--
``(aa) recognized postsecondary credentials earned as part
of such program;
``(bb) employment opportunities upon program completion;
``(cc) median earnings of individuals during the fourth
quarter after exit from the program, as compared to median
earnings of occupations for which the program prepares the
individual in the State and local area;
``(dd) program cost of such program;
``(ee) competencies taught as part of such program that
align to expected job opportunities;
``(ff) time to completion of such program; and
``(gg) alignment of such program to career pathways; and
``(ii)(I) Subject to subclauses (II) and (III), the
information described in clause (i) shall be validated in
accordance with guidance issued by the Secretary with respect
to each training program of each such provider, which may
include validation, by at least one of the following
entities:
``(aa) 3 or more employers.
``(bb) An industry association.
``(cc) A labor organization or joint labor-management
organization, or an industry or sector partnership.
``(II) The requirements of subclause (I) shall not apply to
any program that is--
``(aa) offered by a public institution of higher education;
or
``(bb) accredited by a programmatic accrediting agency (as
defined in section 602.3 of title 34, Code of Federal
Regulations (or successor regulations)).
``(III) An entity listed in item (aa), (bb), or (cc) of
subclause (I) that is providing validation under this clause
with respect to a training program may not be the provider of
such training program.'';
(E) by striking subparagraphs (E), (F), (G), and (H);
(F) by redesignating subparagraphs (I) and (J) as
subparagraphs (E) and (F), respectively; and
(G) in subparagraph (F), as so redesignated--
(i) by amending clause (i) to read as follows:
``(i) the accountability of the providers, including in the
case of a training program that is offered by an institution
of higher education, that such institution has not been
subject, during the 5 years preceding the date of the
determination of whether such a provider meets such criteria,
to--
``(I) any suspension, emergency action, or termination of
programs under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965;
``(II) any adverse action by the accrediting agency or
association of the institution of higher education; or
``(III) any action by the State to revoke a license or
other authority to operate;''; and
(ii) in clause (ii), by striking ``one-stop centers'' and
inserting ``local boards'';
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``The information'' and inserting the
following:
``(A) Providers of training services.--The information''
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) through (E) as
clauses (i) through (v), respectively: and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) States.--The State shall make available on a publicly
accessible website and in a manner that does not reveal
personally identifiable information--
``(i) the criteria, information requirements, and
procedures regarding the eligibility of providers of training
services established pursuant to subsection (a); and
``(ii) the appropriate, accurate, and timely information
each provider of training services submits to the State in
accordance with subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.'';
(3) in paragraph (4)--
(A) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by striking ``section 122 of the Workforce Investment
Act of 1998, as in effect on the day before the date of
enactment of this Act'' and inserting ``section 122, as in
effect on the date before the date of enactment of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022''; and
(ii) by inserting at the end the following: ``A Governor
shall make an eligibility determination under this paragraph
with respect to a provider not later than 60 days after
receipt of an application for such a determination from such
provider.'';
(B) in subparagraph (C) by inserting ``, including to the
extent practicable for the 2-year period preceding the date
of the provider's application under this paragraph'' after
``subtitle''; and
(C) in subparagraph (D)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking ``a factor'' and inserting
``the levels of performance achieved'';
(ii) in clause (iii), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(iii) in clause (iv), by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(v) a factor related to serving individuals with barriers
to employment.''.
(b) Procedures.--Section 122(c)(2) (29 U.S.C. 3152(c)(2)),
by striking ``biennial'' and inserting ``annual''.
(c) List and Information to Assist Participants in Choosing
Providers.--Section 122(d)(3) (29 U.S.C. 3152(d)(3)), by
inserting ``on a publicly accessible website that is
consumer-tested and is searchable and comparable, through the
use of common, linked, open-data description language'' after
``individual participant''.
(d) Enforcement.--Section 122(f)(1) (29 U.S.C. 3152(f)(1))
is amended to read as follows:
``(1) In general.--The procedures established under this
section shall provide the following:
``(A) Failure to meet program requirements.--In addition to
the violations described in subparagraph (B), any provider of
training services eligible to receive funds under chapter 3--
``(i) shall have such eligibility terminated for a period
of 1 year upon a determination by an individual or entity
specified in the procedures, that such provider--
``(I) in a case in which the provider receives initial
eligibility under subsection (b)(4), failed to report
information as required under subsection (b)(4)(C);
``(II) failed to inform the State board or local board that
the training program of such provider has changed, and as a
result of such change the information with respect to such
training program under subsection (b)(1) used by the Governor
to determine the provider's eligibility to receive such funds
no longer accurately describes such training program; or
``(III) failed to meet the expected performance as
described in subsection (b)(4)(D); or
``(ii) may have such eligibility terminated as a result of
offering a program for a period of less than 2 years--
``(I) that is no longer aligned to in-demand industry
sectors or occupations; or
``(II) that results in employment with wages below the
median earnings for the occupation in the State or local area
due to the insufficient quality of training provided under
the program.
``(B) Substantial violations.--Upon a determination, by an
individual or entity specified in the procedures, that a
provider of training services substantially violated any
requirement under this title, or that an individual providing
information on behalf of the provider intentionally supplied
inaccurate information under this section, the eligibility of
such provider to receive funds under chapter 3 for the
program involved shall be terminated for a period of not less
than 2 years.
``(C) Repayment.--A provider of training services whose
eligibility is terminated under subparagraph (A) or (B) of
this paragraph shall be liable for the repayment of funds
received under chapter 3 during a period of violation
described in such subparagraph.''.
(e) Transition Period.--Section 122(i) ((29 U.S.C. 3152(i))
is amended to read as follows:
``(i) Transition Period for Implementation.--The Governor
and local boards shall implement the requirements of this
section, as amended by the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act of 2022, not later than 12 months after the
date of enactment of such Act, except that the criteria
established under items (ff) and (gg) of subsection
(b)(1)(D)(i)(II) may not be used until the date that is 3
years after the date of enactment of such Act.''.
CHAPTER 2--YOUTH WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES
SEC. 231. STATE ALLOTMENTS.
Section 127 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3162) is amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a)(1) to read as follows:
``(1) reserve 1\1/2\ percent of funds appropriated under
section 136(a), for each fiscal year for which funds are
appropriated under such section, to provide youth workforce
investment activities under section 167 (relating to migrant
and seasonal farmworkers); and''; and
(2) in subsection (b)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``not more than 1\1/
2\'' and inserting ``2''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking ``1/4 of'';
(ii) by striking clause (ii); and
(iii) by redesignating clause (iii) as clause (ii).
SEC. 232. WITHIN STATE ALLOCATIONS.
Section 128(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3163(b)) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(5) Transfer authority.--A local board may transfer, if
such a transfer is approved by the Governor, up to and
including 100 percent of the funds allocated to the local
area under section 130(a)(2), and up to and including 100
percent of the funds allocated to the local area under this
subsection for a fiscal year between--
``(A) activities under section 129(c); and
``(B) activities under section 130.''.
SEC. 233. USE OF FUNDS FOR YOUTH WORKFORCE INVESTMENT
ACTIVITIES.
(a) Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.--Section 129(a)
of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
3164(a)) is amended to read as follows:
``(a) Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.--
``(1) In general.--In order to determine which
subpopulation of eligible youth a local area can best serve,
a local board shall ensure that the comprehensive needs
assessment related to youth workforce investment activities
under section 108(b)(9) of the local plan shall meet the
requirements of this subsection, and shall be updated at
least once every 4 years.
``(2) Requirements.--A comprehensive local needs assessment
described in paragraph (1) with respect to a local area shall
include each of the following:
``(A) A description of how youth workforce investment
activities offered by the local area are--
``(i) sufficient in size, scope, and quality to meet the
needs of eligible youth in the local area;
``(ii) aligned to State, regional, Tribal, or local in-
demand industry sectors or occupations (including career
pathways), identified by the State board or local board; and
``(iii) developed in partnership with eligible youth in the
local area and aligned with their needs, including program
elements and offerings.
``(B) An identification of successful models of youth
workforce investment activities.
``(C) A description of the progress during the most recent
2 program years covered by the local plan of the local area
toward implementation of equal access to high-quality youth
workforce investment activities, including--
``(i) strategies to provide eligible youth access to paid
work experience opportunities and career pathways;
``(ii) strategies to overcome barriers that result in lower
rates of access to, or performance gaps in, youth workforce
investment activities for eligible youth;
``(iii) providing programs and activities that are designed
to enable eligible youth to attain a secondary school diploma
or its equivalent, or recognized postsecondary credentials;
``(iv) providing programs and activities to prepare
eligible youth for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand
industry sectors or occupations that will lead to self-
sufficiency; and
``(v) strategies to identify the local area needs of the
subpopulations of eligible youth described in section
128(b)(4)(A)(i).
``(3) Consultation.--In conducting the comprehensive needs
assessment under paragraph (1), the local area shall involve
a diverse body of stakeholders, including, at a minimum--
``(A) representatives of local educational agencies,
including representatives of career and technical education
programs;
``(B) eligible providers of training services, including
eligible providers of apprenticeship programs and pre-
apprenticeship programs, and providers of internships, paid
or unpaid work experience opportunities, or transitional
jobs;
``(C) representatives of business and industry (including
representatives of small business), which shall include
representatives of industry and sector partnerships in the
State;
``(D) interested community representatives, including
community-based organizations;
``(E) representatives of eligible youth, including
representatives of regional or local agencies serving
eligible youth;
``(F) representatives of Indian Tribes and Tribal
organizations in the State, where applicable; and
``(G) any other stakeholders that the State may require the
local area to consult.
``(4) Continued consultation.--Each local area receiving
financial assistance under this chapter shall consult with
stakeholders described in paragraph (3) on an ongoing basis,
as determined by the Governor. This may include consultation
in order to--
``(A) provide input on quadrennial updates to the
comprehensive needs assessment required under paragraph (1);
``(B) ensure youth workforce investment activities--
``(i) are responsive to local area employment needs;
``(ii) are responsive to local area youth's career
interests and goals;
``(iii) are aligned with employment priorities in the
State, regional, tribal, or local economy identified by
employers and the entities described in paragraph (3), which
may include high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry
sectors or occupations identified by the local board;
``(iv) are informed by labor market information, including
information provided under section 15(e)(2)(C) of the Wagner-
Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 491-2(e)(2)(C));
``(v) are designed to meet current, intermediate, or long-
term labor market projections; and
``(vi) allow employer input, including input from industry
or sector partnerships in the local area, where applicable,
into the development and implementation of youth workforce
investment activities to ensure such activities align with
skills and competencies required by local employment
opportunities, including activities such as the
identification of relevant skills, competencies, recognized
postsecondary credentials, and current technology and
equipment;
``(C) identify and encourage opportunities for work-based
learning; and
``(D) ensure funding under this part is used in a
coordinated manner with other local resources.''.
(b) Statewide Activities.--Section 129(b) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3164(b)) is
amended--
(1) by amending paragraph (1)(B) to read as follows:
``(B) disseminating the list of eligible providers of youth
workforce investment activities, as determined under section
123, including in transparent, linked, open, and
interoperable data formats;''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``described in section
134(c)(2)'' and inserting ``, including individualized career
services,'';
(B) in subparagraph (D)(v), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(C) in subparagraph (E), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(F) establishing, supporting, and expanding work-based
learning opportunities, including transitional jobs, that are
aligned with career pathways.''.
(c) Local Elements and Requirements.--
(1) Program design.--Section 129(c)(1) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3164(c)(1)) is
amended--
(A) in subparagraph (C)--
(i) in clause (iv), by striking ``in appropriate cases''
and inserting ``including paid work-based learning
opportunities''; and
(ii) in clause (v), by inserting ``high-skill, high-wage,
or'' before ``in-demand''; and
(B) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``10 percent'' and
inserting ``15 percent''.
(2) Program elements.--Section 129(c)(2) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3164(c)(2) is
amended to read as follows:
``(2) Program elements.--In order to support the attainment
of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent,
entry into postsecondary education, and career readiness for
participants, local areas shall ensure that each of following
elements are provided under the programs described in
paragraph (1), as appropriate, to meet the needs of eligible
youth in the local area:
``(A) Tutoring, study skills training, instruction, and
dropout prevention and recovery strategies that lead to
completion of the requirements for a secondary school diploma
or its recognized equivalent (including a recognized
certificate of attendance or similar document for individuals
with disabilities) or for a recognized postsecondary
credential.
``(B) Alternative secondary school services, or dropout
recovery services, as appropriate.
``(C) Paid or unpaid, work-based learning experiences,
which--
``(i) may include summer and year-round employment
opportunities that meet the requirements of section 130; and
``(ii) may include, to the extent practicable--
``(I) pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship programs;
``(II) internships and job shadowing; and
``(III) on-the-job training opportunities.
``(D) Occupational skill training, which shall include
priority consideration for training programs that lead to
recognized postsecondary credentials that are aligned with
high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or
occupations in the local area involved, if the local board
determines that the programs meet the quality criteria
described in section 123.
``(E) Education offered concurrently with and in the same
context as workforce preparation activities and training for
a specific occupation or occupational cluster.
``(F) Leadership development opportunities, which may
include community service and peer-centered activities
encouraging responsibility and other positive social and
civic behaviors, as appropriate.
``(G) Supportive services.
``(H) Adult mentoring for the period of participation and a
subsequent period, for a total of not less than 12 months.
``(I) Follow-up services for the longer of 24 months or the
completion of any postsecondary education or training to
which participants are referred after completion of such
program.
``(J) Comprehensive guidance and counseling, including
trauma-informed approaches.
``(K) Financial literacy education.
``(L) Entrepreneurial skills training.
``(M) Services that provide labor market and employment
information about high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand
industry sectors or occupations available in the local area,
such as career awareness, career counseling, and career
exploration services, which may include providing such
services to elementary and secondary schools (as defined in
section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801)).
``(N) Activities that help youth prepare for and transition
to postsecondary education and training.
``(O) Digital skills training, including access to training
that supports basic digital literacy.''.
(3) Consistency with compulsory school attendance laws.--
Section 129(c)(4) (29 U.S.C. 3164(c)(4)) is amended to read
as follows:
``(4) Consistency with compulsory school attendance laws.--
In providing assistance under this section to an individual
who is required to attend school under applicable State
compulsory school attendance laws, the priority in providing
such assistance shall be for the individual to attend school
regularly.''.
SEC. 234. SUMMER AND YEAR-ROUND EMPLOYMENT FOR YOUTH.
Chapter 2 of subtitle B of title I of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.), as
amended by the preceding sections, is further amended by
adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 130. SUMMER AND YEAR-ROUND EMPLOYMENT FOR YOUTH.
``(a) Funding.--
``(1) State allotment.--From the amount appropriated under
section 136(b) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allot
funds to each State on the basis of the relative allotment
the State received under section 127(b) for such fiscal year,
compared to the total amount allotted to all States under
section 127(b) for such fiscal year.
``(2) Local area allocation.--A State shall use the funds
allotted under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year to allocate
funds to each local area of the State on the basis of the
relative allocation the local area received under section
128(b) for such fiscal year, compared to the total amount
allocated to all local areas in the State under section
128(b) for such fiscal year.
``(b) Activities.--The local board of a local area covered
by the local plan submitted under section 108--
``(1) shall use the funds received under this section to--
``(A) plan, develop, and carry out a summer employment
program or a year-round employment program described in
subsection (c);
``(B) increase the number of summer or year-round
employment opportunities offered through such program,
including unsubsidized or partly subsidized opportunities,
and opportunities in the private sector;
``(C) engage or establish industry or sector partnerships
to determine local employment needs to inform the
establishment of such a program; and
``(D) conduct outreach to eligible youth and employers; and
``(2) may--
``(A) use the funds received under this section to develop
technology infrastructure, including data and management
systems, to support such a program;
``(B) use such funds to enhance the program elements
required under subsection (c)(1); and
``(C) use not more than 25 percent of such funds to
subsidize not more than 65 percent of the wages of each
eligible youth participating in such a program.
``(c) Summer and Year-round Employment Program
Requirements.--
``(1) Program elements.--A summer employment program or a
year-round employment program described in this subsection
shall include the following program elements:
``(A) Work-readiness training (including soft skills) and
educational programs aligned to career pathways for eligible
youth to enhance their year-round employment opportunities,
including digital literacy and online work-readiness
opportunities, as appropriate, and support obtaining
documentation needed for employment, such as identification
or licenses.
``(B) Coaching and mentoring services for eligible youth
participating in the program to enhance their summer or year-
round employment opportunities and encourage completion of
such opportunities through the program.
``(C) Coaching and mentoring services for employers on how
to successfully employ each eligible youth participating in
the program in meaningful work, including providing a safe
work and training environment for all participants,
regardless of race, color, disability, age, religion,
national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
``(D) Career exploration, career counseling, career
planning, and college planning services for eligible youth
participating in the program.
``(E) High-quality financial literacy education as
described in section 129(b)(2)(D), for eligible youth
participating in the program, including education on the use
of credit and financing higher education, and access to safe
and affordable banking.
``(F) Providing supportive services to eligible youth, or
connecting such youth to supportive services provided by
another entity, to enable participation in the program, which
may include food and nutrition services, and health and
mental health care supports.
``(G) Follow-up services for not less than 12 months after
the completion of participation, as appropriate.
``(H) Integration of services provided by the program with
youth development programs, secondary school programs, career
and technical education programs, youth workforce investment
activities under this chapter, and skills training programs
funded by the State or Federal Government, as applicable.
``(I) Connecting youth participating in the program to
providers of youth services, adult employment and training
services, vocational rehabilitation services, adult education
and family literacy services under title II, career pathways,
postsecondary education, or skills training programs funded
by the State or Federal Government, as applicable.
``(J) Commitment and support from mayors or county
executives to support the execution of the program.
``(2) Program design.--
``(A) Summer employment program.--In addition to the
program elements described in paragraph (1), a summer
employment program described in this subsection shall be a
program that matches eligible youth participating in such
program with an appropriate employer (based on factors
including the needs of the employer and the age, skill, and
aspirations of the eligible youth) for high-quality summer
employment, which--
``(i) may not be less than 4 weeks; and
``(ii) may not pay less than the greater of the applicable
Federal, State, or local minimum wage.
``(B) Year-round employment program.--In addition to the
program elements described in paragraph (1), a year-round
employment program described in this subsection shall be a
program that matches each eligible youth participating in the
program with an appropriate employer, based on factors
(including the needs of the employer and the age, skill, and
informed aspirations of the participant) for high-quality,
year-round employment, which--
``(i) may not be less than 180 days and more than 1 year;
``(ii) may not pay less than the greater of the applicable
Federal, State, or local minimum wage; and
``(iii) may not employ the eligible youth for less than 20
hours per week.
``(3) Priority.--In carrying out a summer employment
program or a year-round employment program receiving
assistance under this section, a local area shall give
priority to year-round employment opportunities offered under
such program--
``(A) in existing or emerging high-skill, high-wage, or in-
demand industry sectors or occupations; or
``(B) that meet community needs in the public, private, or
nonprofit sector.
``(d) Performance Accountability.--For each local board
carrying out a summer or year-round employment program
receiving assistance under this section, the primary
indicators of performance, with respect to each such program,
shall include--
``(1) the performance metrics described in clause (i)(VI),
and subparagraphs (I) and (II) of clause (ii), of section
116(b)(2)(A);
``(2) the percentage of eligible youth completing the
summer or year-round program, as applicable; and
``(3) the percentage of youth having participated in work-
based learning.
``(e) Reports.--
``(1) In general.--In addition to information required as
part of the State performance report described in section
116(d)(2), each State shall include for each summer and year
round employment program receiving assistance under this
section--
``(A) the number of eligible youth participating in the
program who complete a summer employment opportunity or a
year-round employment opportunity through the program;
``(B) the average cost per participant to develop or expand
such program, and the activities and services, and supportive
services provided under such program;
``(C) the number of eligible youth participating in such
program and accessing services as described in subparagraph
(B);
``(D) the number of youth participants receiving a
subsidized wage, and the total amount and source of each such
subsidy, including the average amount of the subsidy covered
by funds received under this section;
``(E) the average number of hours and weeks worked and the
average amount of wages earned by eligible youth
participating in the program;
``(F) the average number of hours spent on--
``(i) recruitment and retention strategies; and
``(ii) support for participating youth, such as time
management, career planning, and financial literacy training;
``(G) the percent of eligible youth participating in the
program that are placed in--
``(i) an employment opportunity in the nonprofit sector;
``(ii) an employment opportunity in the public sector; and
``(iii) an employment opportunity in the for-profit sector;
and
``(H) any other information that the Secretary of Labor
determines necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the
summer or year-round employment program.
``(2) Disaggregation.--The information required to be
reported under subparagraphs (A), (B), and (G) of paragraphs
(1) shall be disaggregated by race, ethnicity, sex, age, and
the subpopulations of eligible youth (as defined in section
3).''.
CHAPTER 3--ADULT AND DISLOCATED WORKER EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING
ACTIVITIES
SEC. 241. WITHIN STATE ALLOCATIONS.
Section 133(b)(2) (29 U.S.C. 3173(b)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A)(iii), by striking ``The term, used
with respect to fiscal year 2013 or 2014, means a percentage
of the amount allocated to local areas under paragraphs
(2)(A) and (3) of section 133(b) of the Workforce Investment
Act of 1998 (as in effect on the day before the date of
enactment of this Act), received through an allocation made
under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of that section for fiscal year
2013 or 2014, respectively.''; and
(2) in subparagraph (B)(iv), by striking ``The term, used
with respect to fiscal year 2014, means a percentage of the
amount allocated to local areas under section 133(b)(2)(B) of
the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (as in effect on the day
before the date of enactment of this Act), received through
an allocation made under that section for fiscal year
2014.''.
SEC. 242. USE OF FUNDS FOR EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING
ACTIVITIES.
(a) Required Statewide Employment and Training
Activities.--
(1) Statewide rapid response activities.--Section
134(a)(2)(A)(ii) (29 U.S.C. 3174(a)(2)(A)(ii)) is amended by
striking ``, and section 133(a)(2) of the Workforce
Investment Act of 1998 (as in effect on the day before the
date of enactment of this Act)''.
(2) Statewide employment and training activities.--Section
134(a)(2)(B)(i) (29 U.S.C. 3174(a)(2)(B)) is amended by
striking subclauses (III) and (IV) and inserting the
following:
``(III) local areas by providing information on and support
for the effective development, convening, and implementation
of industry or sector partnerships described in subsection
(c)(5);
``(IV) local areas for carrying out career pathway
development efforts, which may include alignment and
coordination efforts with career and technical education
programs of study; and
``(V) local areas, one-stop operators, one-stop partners,
and eligible providers, including for--
``(aa) the continuous development and training of staff on
strategies for preparing individuals with barriers to
employment to enter in-demand industry sectors or occupations
and nontraditional occupations;
``(bb) the development of exemplary program activities; and
``(cc) the provision of technical assistance to local areas
that fail to meet local performance accountability measures
described in section 116(c);''.
(b) Allowable Statewide Employment and Training
Activities.--Section 134(a)(3)(A) (29 U.S.C. 3174(a)(3)(A))
is amended--
(1) in clause (ii), by inserting ``or bringing evidenced-
based programs to scale'' after ``strategies'';
(2) by amending clause (iii) to read as follows:
``(iii) the development or identification of, and sharing
of information (in transparent, linked, open, and
interoperable data formats) about, education and training
programs that--
``(I) respond to real-time labor market analysis;
``(II) utilize direct assessment and prior learning
assessment to measure and provide credit for prior knowledge,
skills, competencies, and experiences;
``(III) evaluate such skills and competencies for
adaptability, ensure credits are portable and stackable for
more skilled employment; and
``(IV) accelerate course or credential completion, and
facilitate the sharing of information about such programs in
transparent, linked, open, and interoperable data formats;'';
(3) by amending clause (v) to read as follows:
``(v) supporting the development of alternative programs
and other activities that enhance the choices available to
older individuals (including options for self-employment and
other wage-earning activities that lead to economic self-
sufficiency), and enhance skills (such as digital literacy)
in older individuals;'';
(4) in clause (viii)(II)--
(A) by amending item (dd) to read as follows:
``(dd) adult education, literacy, and digital literacy
activities, including those provided by public libraries;'';
(B) in item (ee), by striking ``ex-offenders'' and
inserting ``justice-involved individuals'';
(C) by striking ``and'' at the end of item (ff); and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(gg) programs under the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42
U.S.C. 3001 et seq.) that support employment and economic
security; and
``(hh) State domestic violence coalitions (as defined in
section 302 of the Family Violence Prevention and Services
Act (42 U.S.C. 10402)) and tribal coalitions (as defined in
section 40002(a) of the Violence Against Women Act of 1994
(34 U.S.C. 12291(a))).''.
(c) Required Local Employment and Training Activities.--
(1) In general.--Section 134(c)(1)(A) (29 U.S.C.
3174(c)(1)(A)) is amended by striking clauses (iv) and (v)
and inserting the following:
``(iv) to provide supportive services described in
paragraph (4) to adults and dislocated workers, respectively,
through the one-stop delivery system in accordance with such
paragraph;
``(v) to establish and develop relationships and networks
with large and small employers and their intermediaries; and
``(vi) to develop, convene, or implement industry or sector
partnerships described in paragraph (5).''.
(2) Career services.--
(A) Services provided.--Section 134(c)(2)(A) (29 U.S.C.
3174(c)(2)(A)) is amended--
(i) by amending clause (iii) to read as follows:
``(iii) initial assessment of skill levels (including
literacy, digital literacy, numeracy, and English language
proficiency), competencies, abilities, current applicable
foreign academic and professional credentials, guidance and
services on transferring high-skilled foreign certifications,
and supportive service needs, which may include diagnostic
testing and use of other assessment tools;'';
(ii) by amending clause (vi) to read as follows:
``(vi) provision of workforce and labor market employment
statistics information and related skills development
information, including the provision of accurate information
(including real-time data to the extent practicable) relating
to local, regional, and national labor market areas,
including--
``(I) job vacancy listings in such labor market areas;
``(II) information on job skills and credentials necessary
to obtain the jobs described in subclause (I); and
``(III) information on education and skills development
programs that are available for attaining needed skills and
credentials for the jobs described in subclause (I),
including information--
``(aa) on the pathways to such skills and credentials
(including information on career pathway programs in the
local area);
``(bb) on the quality of such education and training
programs, consistent with the performance information
provided under clause (vii); and
``(cc) on the comparability of current foreign academic and
professional certifications to needed skills and credentials;
and
``(IV) information relating to local occupations in demand
and the earnings, skill requirements, and opportunities for
advancement for such occupations;'';
(iii) by amending clause (xi) to read as follows:
``(xi) assistance in identifying and establishing
eligibility for programs of financial aid assistance for
training and education programs that are not funded under
this Act, including Federal financial aid under title IV of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.) and
through State-funded education and training programs;'';
(iv) in clause (xii), by striking subclauses (IV) through
(XI) and inserting the following:
``(IV) individual counseling, including career counseling;
``(V) career planning;
``(VI) assessment and development of employability skills,
including development of learning skills, communication
skills, interviewing skills, punctuality, and professional
conduct, to prepare individuals for unsubsidized employment
or training;
``(VII) financial literacy services, such as the activities
described in section 129(b)(2)(D);
``(VIII) out-of-area job search assistance and relocation
assistance; or
``(IX) English language acquisition and integrated
education and training programs; and''; and
(v) in clause (xiii), by inserting ``and options for
further skill upgrading and career advancement'' after ``the
workplace''.
(B) Use of previous assessments.--Subparagraph (B) of
section 134(c)(2) (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(2)) is amended to read
as follows:
``(B) Use of previous assessments.--A one-stop operator or
one-stop partner shall not be required to conduct a new
interview, evaluation, or assessment of a participant under
subparagraph (A)(xii) if the one-stop operator or one-stop
partner determines that it is--
``(i) appropriate to use a recent interview, evaluation, or
assessment of the participant conducted for another education
or training program; and
``(ii) using such recent interview, evaluation, or
assessment may accelerate eligibility determination or
facilitate enrollment in a training program for which such
participant has been selected.''.
(C) Delivery of services.--Subparagraph (C) of section
134(c)(2) (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(2)) is amended by inserting ``or
community-based organizations, or national or regional
intermediaries to serve individuals with barriers to
employment,'' after ``nonprofit service providers,''.
(3) Training services.--
(A) In general.--Section 134(c)(3)(A) (29 U.S.C.
3174(c)(3)(A)) is amended--
(i) in clause (i)(II), by inserting before the semicolon at
the end the following: ``, or to jobs that may be performed
remotely''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) Adult education and family literacy activities.--In
the case of an individual who is determined to not have the
skills and qualifications to successfully participate in the
selected program of training services under clause
(i)(I)(cc), the one-stop operator or one-stop partner shall
co-enroll such individual in adult education and family
literacy activities under title II and such selected program
of training services. Such an individual may receive
applicable career services, including supportive services,
under this title.''.
(B) Qualification.--Section 134(c)(3)(B) (29 U.S.C.
3174(c)(3)(B)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) Participation during pending application.--An
individual who meets the eligibility requirements under
subparagraph (A)(i) to participate in a program of training
services may participate in such a program during the period
in which such individual's enrollment in such program is
being reviewed under this section, except that the provider
of such program shall only receive reimbursement under this
Act for the individual's participation during such period if
such individual's enrollment is approved under this section.
An individual shall not be liable for the cost of
participation in a program during such period without regard
to whether the provider receives reimbursement under this Act
for such cost.''.
(C) Training services.--Section 134(c)(3)(D) is amended, in
the matter preceding clause (i), by striking ``Training
services may include'' and inserting ``Training services may
be delivered in-person or virtually, and may include''.
(D) Priority.--Section 134(c)(3)(E) (29 U.S.C.
3174(c)(3)(E)) is amended to read as follows:
``(E) Priority.--
``(i) In general.--With respect to funds allocated to a
local area for adult employment and training activities under
paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of section 133(b), not less than 75
percent of such funds, used to provide career services
described in paragraph (2)(A)(xii), training services, and
supportive services, shall be used to provide such services
to--
``(I) recipients of public assistance;
``(II) other low-income individuals;
``(III) individuals who have foundational skill needs; and
``(IV) individuals with barriers to employment who are not
described in subclauses (I) through (III).
``(ii) Determinations of priority.--The appropriate local
board and the Governor shall direct the one-stop operators in
the local area with regard to making determinations on how to
prioritize the populations listed in subclauses (I) through
(IV) of clause (i) for purposes of clause (i).'';
(E) Use of individual training accounts.--Section
134(c)(3)(G) (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(3)(G)) is amended--
(i) by amending clause (i) to read as follows:
``(i) In general.--
``(I) Training services.--Except as provided in clause
(ii), training services provided under this paragraph shall
be provided through the use of individual training accounts
in accordance with this paragraph, and shall be provided to
eligible individuals through the one-stop delivery system.
``(II) Authorized costs.--An individual training account
may provide any costs with respect to such training services,
as determined by the local board, including--
``(aa) the costs of course materials, supplies, uniforms,
technology, and other required fees for graduation,
licensure, or certification; and
``(bb) in the case of a provider that charges tuition and
fees for a training program, the cost of such tuition and
fees.'';
(ii) in clause (ii), by amending subclause (IV) to read as
follows:
``(IV) the local board determines that there is a training
program demonstrating effectiveness (including cost
effectiveness), and that can be offered in the local area by
a community-based organization, national or regional
intermediary, or another private, nonprofit organization to
serve individuals with barriers to employment;''; and
(iii) by striking clauses (iii) and (iv) and inserting the
following:
``(iii) Linkage to occupations in demand.--
``(I) In general.--Subject to subclause (II), training
services provided under this paragraph shall be directly
linked to an in-demand industry sector or occupation in the
local area or the planning region, or in another area to
which an adult or dislocated worker receiving such services
is willing to relocate or that may be performed remotely.
``(II) Exception.-- A local board may approve training
services for occupations determined by the local board to be
in sectors of the economy that have a high potential for
sustained demand or growth in the local area.
``(iv) Credential in demand.--To the extent practicable,
training services provided under this paragraph shall result
in the attainment of skills and credentials that are portable
and stackable.
``(v) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this paragraph
shall be construed to preclude the combined use of individual
training accounts and contracts in the provision of training
services, including arrangements that allow individuals
receiving individual training accounts to obtain training
services that are contracted for under clause (ii).''.
(F) Reimbursement for on-the-job training.--Section
134(c)(3)(H) (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)(3)(H)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(H) Reimbursement for on-the-job training.--
``(i) Reimbursement levels.--For purposes of the provision
of on-the-job training under this paragraph, the Governor or
local board involved may increase the amount of the
reimbursement to an amount of up to 90 percent of the wage
rate of a participant for a program carried out under chapter
2 or this chapter, if--
``(I) the Governor approves the increase with respect to a
program carried out with funds reserved by the State under
such chapter, taking into account the factors described in
clause (iii); or
``(II) the local board approves the increase with respect
to a program carried out with funds allocated to a local area
under such chapter, taking into account the factors described
in clause (iii).
``(ii) Verification by local area.--The local area shall--
``(I) at least once during the on-the-job training program,
verify that the employer meets the conditions that--
``(aa) were certified by the employer in the contract for
such program; and
``(bb) are consistent with the factors described in clause
(iii), according to a methodology determined by the local
board with consent from the Governor; and
``(II) terminate the employer's contract for such program
if the employer is not meeting such conditions.
``(iii) Factors.--For purposes of this subparagraph, the
Governor or local board, respectively, may take into account
factors consisting of--
``(I) basic indicators of job quality, including--
``(aa) wage level upon completion of a training program;
``(bb) availability of benefits, such as paid time off,
health insurance, and retirement savings plan; and
``(cc) a safe workplace, such as a record of compliance
with safety regulations consistent with or better than the
industry average and adoption of an independently certified
injury and illness prevention program;
``(II) the characteristics of the participants;
``(III) the size of the employer;
``(IV) the quality of employer-provided training and
advancement opportunities; and
``(V) such other factors as the Governor or local board,
respectively, may determine to be appropriate, which may
include the number of employees participating in the
training, opportunities for promotions, predictable and
stable work schedule, and relation of the training to the
competitiveness of a participant.''.
(4) Supportive services.--Section 134(c) (29 U.S.C. 3174)
is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Supportive services.--
``(A) In general.--A portion of the funds allocated to a
local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as
appropriate, of section 133(b), and a portion of the funds
allocated to the local area for dislocated workers under
section 133(b)(2)(B)--
``(i) shall be used to provide supportive services (that
are not needs-related payments) to adults and dislocated
workers, respectively--
``(I) who are participating in programs with activities
authorized in paragraph (2) or (3) of subsection (c), or who
entered unsubsidized employment after participating in such
programs, for up to 12 months following the date of first
employment; and
``(II) who are unable to obtain such supportive services
through other programs providing such services; and
``(ii) may be used to provide needs-related payments to
adults and dislocated workers, respectively, who are
unemployed and do not qualify for (or have ceased to qualify
for) unemployment compensation for the purpose of enabling
such individuals to participate in programs of training
services under subsection (c)(3).
``(B) Additional eligibility requirements for needs-related
payments.--In addition to the requirements contained in
subparagraph (A)(ii), a dislocated worker who has ceased to
qualify for unemployment compensation may be eligible to
receive needs-related payments under this paragraph only if
such worker is enrolled in training services.
``(C) Level of payments.--The level of a needs-related
payment made to a dislocated worker under this paragraph
shall not exceed the greater of--
``(i) the applicable level of unemployment compensation; or
``(ii) if such worker did not qualify for unemployment
compensation, an amount equal to 150 percent of the poverty
line, for an equivalent period, which amount shall be
adjusted to reflect changes in total family income.''.
(d) Permissible Local Employment and Training Activities.--
(1) In general.--Section 134(d)(1)(A) (29 U.S.C.
3174(d)(1)(A)) is amended--
(A) in clause (vii)--
(i) by inserting ``and'' at the end of subclause (III); and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(IV) to strengthen, through professional development
activities, the knowledge and capacity of staff to use the
latest digital technologies, tools and strategies to
equitably deliver high quality services and outcomes for
jobseekers, workers, and employers;'';
(B) in clause (viii), strike ``displaced homemakers'' and
insert ``displaced caregivers''; and
(C) in clause (ix)(II)(bb), by inserting ``, technical
assistance in support of job quality, adoption of skills-
based and equitable hiring practices'' after
``apprenticeship''.
(2) Incumbent worker training programs; transitional
jobs.--Section 134(d) (29 U.S.C. 3174(d)), as amended by this
section, is further amended by striking paragraphs (2)
through (5), and inserting the following:
``(2) Incumbent worker training programs.--
``(A) In general.--
``(i) Standard reservation of funds.--The local board may
reserve and use not more than 25 percent of the funds
allocated to the local area involved under section 133(b) to
pay for the Federal share of the cost of providing training
through a training program for incumbent workers, carried out
in accordance with this paragraph.
``(ii) Increase in reservation of funds.--The local board
may increase such reservation of funds for a program year if
the Governor determines that the training from such funds
from the prior program year resulted in career promotions for
workers receiving such training and created new job
vacancies. For a program year for which the reservation of
funds is so increased, clause (i) shall be applied by
substituting `30 percent' for `25 percent'.
``(iii) Determination of eligibility.--In order for a local
board to determine that an employer is eligible to receive
funding under clause (i), the local board shall take into
account factors consisting of--
``(I) the basic indicators of job quality described in
subsection (c)(3)(H)(iii)(I);
``(II) the characteristics of the participants in the
program;
``(III) the relationship of the training to the
competitiveness of a participant and the employer; and
``(IV) such other factors as the local board may determine
to be appropriate, which may include the number of employees
participating in the training, and the existence of other
training and advancement opportunities provided by the
employer.
``(iv) Statewide impact.--The Governor or State board
involved may make recommendations to the local board for
providing incumbent worker training that has statewide
impact.
``(B) Training activities.--The training program for
incumbent workers carried out under this paragraph shall be
carried out by the local board in conjunction with the
employers or groups of employers of such workers (which may
include employers in partnership with other entities for the
purposes of delivering training) for the purpose of assisting
such workers in obtaining the skills necessary to retain
employment or avert layoffs.
``(C) Employer payment of non-federal share.--Employers
participating in the program carried out under this paragraph
shall be required to pay for the non-Federal share of the
cost of providing the training to incumbent workers of the
employers.
``(D) Non-federal share.--
``(i) Factors.--Subject to clauses (ii) and (iii), the
local board shall establish the non-Federal share of the cost
of providing training through a training program for
incumbent workers, by considering the indicators described in
subsection (c)(3)(H)(iii) and how many of such indicators the
employer certifies will be met with respect to the employment
of incumbent workers upon completion of training funded under
this section.
``(ii) Limits.--The non-Federal share shall not be less
than--
``(I) 10 percent of the cost, for employers with not more
than 50 employees;
``(II) 25 percent of the cost, for employers with more than
50 employees but not more than 100 employees; and
``(III) 50 percent of the cost, for employers with more
than 100 employees.
``(iii) Calculation of employer share.--The non-Federal
share provided by an employer participating in the program
may include the amount of the wages paid by the employer to a
worker while the worker is attending a training program under
this paragraph. The employer may provide the share in cash or
in kind, fairly evaluated.
``(E) Verification by local area.--Upon completion of the
incumbent worker training program funded under this section,
the local area shall verify that the employer met the
conditions that were certified to prior to receiving the
Federal share of the training program's costs, consistent
with this paragraph, according to a methodology determined by
the Governor or local board. If such conditions were not met,
the one-stop operator shall prohibit the employer from
receiving funds for incumbent worker training under this
section for a period of 5 years.
``(3) Transitional jobs.--The local board may use not more
than 40 percent of the funds allocated to the local area
involved under section 133(b) to provide transitional jobs
under subsection (c)(3) that--
``(A) are time-limited work experiences that are subsidized
and are in the public, private, employment social enterprise,
or nonprofit sectors for individuals with barriers to
employment who are chronically unemployed or have an
inconsistent work history;
``(B) are combined with comprehensive employment and
supportive services; and
``(C) are designed to assist the individuals described in
subparagraph (A) to establish a work history, demonstrate
success in the workplace, and develop skills that lead to
entry into and retention in unsubsidized employment.''.
CHAPTER 4--GENERAL WORKFORCE INVESTMENT PROVISIONS
SEC. 251. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 136 (29 U.S.C. 3181) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 136. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) Youth Workforce Investment Activities.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities
described in section 127(a), $1,026,450,000 for fiscal year
2023, $1,129,100,000 for fiscal year 2024, $1,242,000,000 for
fiscal year 2025, $1,366,200,000 for fiscal year 2026,
$1,502,800,000 for fiscal year 2027, and $1,653,100,000 for
fiscal year 2028
``(b) Summer and Year-round Employment Activities..--There
are authorized to be appropriated to section 130,
$926,650,000 for fiscal year 2023, $1,019,300,000 for fiscal
year 2024, $1,121,250,000 for fiscal year 2025,
$1,233,400,000 for fiscal year 2026, $1,356,750,000 for
fiscal year 2027, and $1,492,450,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(c) Adult Employment and Training Activities.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities
described in section 132(a)(1), $1,555,600,000 for fiscal
year 2023, $1,711,200,000 for fiscal year 2024,
$1,882,300,000 for fiscal year 2025, $2,070,500,000 for
fiscal year 2026, $2,277,600,000 for fiscal year 2027, and
$2,505,400,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(d) Dislocated Worker Employment and Training
Activities.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry
out the activities described in section 132(a)(2),
$2,486,300,000 for fiscal year 2023, $2,734,900,000 for
fiscal year 2024, $3,008,400,000 for fiscal year 2025,
$3,309,200,000 for fiscal year 2026, $3,640,100,000 for
fiscal year 2027, and $4,004,100,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
Subtitle C--Job Corps
SEC. 261. AMENDMENTS RELATING TO JOB CORPS.
(a) Definitions.--
(1) In general.--Section 142 (29 U.S.C. 3192) is amended--
(A) by amending paragraph (7) to read as follows:
``(7) Job corps campus.--The term `Job Corps campus' means
a campus run by an operator selected by the Secretary
pursuant to section 147, carrying out Job Corps
activities.''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(11) State.--The term `State' has the meaning given the
term in section 3, except that such term also includes
outlying areas (as defined in section 3).''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--Subtitle C of title I (29
U.S.C. 3191 et seq.) is amended--
(A) by striking ``Job Corps center'' each place such term
appears (including in any headings) and inserting ``Job Corps
campus''; and
(B) by striking ``Job Corps centers'' each place such term
appears (including in any headings) and inserting ``Job Corps
campuses''.
(b) Individuals Eligible for the Job Corps.--Section 144
(29 U.S.C. 3194) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) not less than age 16 and not more than age 24 on the
date of enrollment;'';
(B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) an individual who is--
``(A) a low-income individual as defined in subsection
(h)(4) of section 402A of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1070a-11) as determined using procedures similar
to those in subsection (e) of such section; or
``(B) a resident of a qualified opportunity zone as defined
in section 1400Z-1(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
and''; and
(C) in paragraph (3)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``Basic skills
deficient'' and inserting ``An individual with foundational
skill needs'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``A school dropout''
and inserting ``An opportunity youth''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (D), by inserting ``or an individual
who is pregnant'' before the period; and
(2) by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
``(b) Special Rule for Veterans.--A veteran shall be
eligible to become an enrollee if the veteran meets the
requirements of subsection (a)(1).''.
(c) Recruitment, Screening, Selection, and Assignment of
Enrollees.--Section 145(a) (29 U.S.C. 3195(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and the results
received within 45 days after the enrollees enroll in the Job
Corps'' and inserting ``after enrollees arrive at a Job Corps
campus'';
(B) in subparagraph (D), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(C) in subparagraph (E), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(F) assist one-stop centers and other entities identified
in paragraph (3) in streamlining the application process for
Job Corps, YouthBuild, and youth workforce investment
activities under which an applicant may submit a single
application for all such programs.''; and
(2) in paragraph (5), by striking the last sentence.
(d) Job Corps Campuses.--Section 147 (29 U.S.C. 3197) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting at the end the
following: ``Such award shall be based upon best value and
fair and reasonable pricing.''; and
(ii) by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
``(B) Considerations.--
``(i) Student outcomes.--In selecting an entity to operate
a Job Corps campus, the Secretary shall consider a numeric
metric of recent past effectiveness of the entity in
assisting individuals eligible to enroll in the Job Corps to
connect to the workforce, to be calculated based on data, to
the extent practicable, regarding--
``(I) the percentage of students served by the entity who
were in education or training activities, or in unsubsidized
employment, during the second quarter after exit from the
relevant program;
``(II) the percentage of students served by the entity who
were in education or training activities, or in unsubsidized
employment, during the fourth quarter after exit from the
relevant program;
``(III) the median earnings of students served by the
entity who were in unsubsidized employment during the second
quarter after exit from the relevant program;
``(IV) the percentage of students served by the entity who
obtained a recognized postsecondary credential, or a
secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, during
participation in or within 1 year after exit from the
relevant program; and
``(V) the percentage of individuals eligible to enroll in
the Job Corps recruited compared to the established goals for
such recruitment.
``(ii) Market development.--
``(I) Mentor-protege program.--The Secretary shall
incorporate Job Corps campus operations into the mentor-
protege program of the Department of Labor established in
accordance with section 45 of the Small Business Act (15
U.S.C. 657r).
``(II) Past-performance.--The Secretary shall publish
comparable alternative metrics for entities without previous
experience in Job Corps campus operations to demonstrate
their past effectiveness in accordance with the requirements
of clause (i).''; and
(B) in paragraph (3)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ``high-skill, high-
wage, or'' before ``in-demand'';
(ii) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``Workforce
Investment Act of 1998'' and inserting ``Workforce Innovation
and Opportunity Act'';
(iii) by redesignating subparagraph (K) as subparagraph
(L); and
(iv) by inserting after subparagraph (J) the following:
``(K) A description of the entity's ability to successfully
operate, or partner with relevant entities to operate, a safe
learning and residential environment for individuals eligible
to enroll in the Job Corps.'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking paragraphs (2) and (3)
and inserting the following:
``(2) High performance.--An entity shall be considered to
be an operator of a high-performing campus if the Job Corps
campus operated by the entity was ranked among the top 25
percent of Job Corps campuses, excluding Civilian
Conservation Centers described in subsection (d), for the two
most recent preceding program years.'';
(3) in subsection (d), by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Direct hire authority.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary of Labor or the Secretary
of Agriculture may appoint, without regard to the provisions
of subchapter I of chapter 33 of title 5, United States Code
(other than sections 3303 and 3328 of such title), a covered
graduate directly to any position with the Department of
Labor or the Forest Service, as the case may be, for which
the candidate meets Office of Personnel Management
qualification standards.
``(B) Covered job corps graduate.--In the paragraph, the term
`covered graduate' means a graduate of a Job Corps Campus or
a Civilian Conservation Center who successfully completed a
training program, including in administration, human
resources, business, or quality assurance, that was focused
on forestry, wildland firefighting, or another topic relating
to the mission of the Department of Labor or the Forest
Service.'';
(4) in subsection (f), by striking ``2-year'' and inserting
``4-year''; and
(5) in subsection (g)(1), by striking ``, for both of the 2
most recent preceding program years'' and all that follows
through the end and inserting ``the agreement has been in
place for at least 3 years and for both of the 2 most recent
preceding program years for which information is available at
the time the determination is made, such campus has been
ranked in the lowest 10 percent of Job Corps campuses.''.
(e) Program Activities.--Section 148 (29 U.S.C. 3198) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(f) Basic Health Services.--The Secretary shall, to the
extent practicable, provide enrollees with basic medical,
dental, and mental health services.''
(f) Support.--Section 150 (29 U.S.C. 3200) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c), by striking ``3 months'' and
inserting ``12 months''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(d) Period of Transition.--Notwithstanding the
requirements of section 146(b), Job Corps graduates may
remain enrolled and a resident of a Job Corps campus for not
more than 1 month after graduation, subject to approval by
the director of the Job Corps Campus, in order to facilitate
their transition into independent living and employment.''.
(g) Operations.--Section 151 (29 U.S.C. 3201) is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 151. OPERATIONS.
``(a) Operating Plan.--
``(1) In general.--The provisions of the contract between
the Secretary and an entity selected to operate a Job Corps
campus shall, including any subsequent modifications to such
contract, serve as an operating plan for the Job Corps
campus.
``(2) Federal changes to operating plan.--The Secretary may
require the operator to submit additional information, as the
Secretary deems necessary for compliance with any relevant
regulations, which shall be considered part of the operating
plan.
``(3) Availability.--The Secretary shall make the operating
plan described in paragraphs (1) and (2), excluding any
proprietary information, available on a publicly accessible
website.
``(b) Local Authorities.--Subject to the limitations of
their approved budgets, the operators of Job Corps campuses
shall have the authority, without prior approval from the
Secretary, to--
``(1) hire staff and invest in staff professional
development;
``(2) enter into agreements with local partners, such as
secondary and postsecondary schools or employers; and
``(3) engage with and educate stakeholders about Job Corps
operations and activities.''.
(h) Standards of Conduct.--Section 152 (29 U.S.C. 3202) is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking the second sentence;
(2) by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
``(b) Behavioral Management Plan.--
``(1) In general.--As part of the operating plan defined in
section 151(a), the director of each Job Corps campus shall
develop and implement a behavioral management plan, subject
to the approval of the Secretary. Such plan shall include
student standards of conduct, positive behavioral
interventions and supports, and multi-tier systems of
supports.
``(2) Disciplinary measures and drug testing.--
``(A) Disciplinary measures.--To promote the proper
behavioral standards in the Job Corps, the director of each
Job Corps campus shall, consistent with the applicable
behavioral management plan described in paragraph (1), have
the authority to take appropriate disciplinary measures
against enrollees if such director determines that an
enrollee has committed a violation of the standards of
conduct. The director shall adopt a zero tolerance policy for
an act of violence or a credible threat of violence that
seriously endangers the safety of students, staff, or the
local community and for illegal activity on the campus.
``(B) Drug testing.--The Secretary shall require drug
testing of all enrollees for controlled substances, as set
forth in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21
U.S.C. 802), in accordance with procedures prescribed by the
Secretary under section 145(a).
``(C) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
``(i) Controlled substance.--The term `controlled
substance' has the meaning given the term in section 102 of
the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802).
``(ii) Zero tolerance policy.--The term `zero tolerance
policy' means a policy under which an enrollee shall be
automatically dismissed from the Job Corps after a
determination by the director that the enrollee has carried
out an act of violence that seriously endangers the safety of
students, staff, or the local community or engaged in an
illegal activity on the campus.
``(3) Advisory group.--The Secretary shall periodically
convene an advisory group of Job Corps operators and service
providers and subject matter experts to review the reporting
data collected under paragraph (5) and provide
recommendations for Job Corps behavioral management plans
based on evidence-based research regarding effective and
equitable behavioral policies.
``(4) Law enforcement agreements.--The directors of each
Job Corps campus shall, to the extent practicable, enter into
an agreement with the relevant local law enforcement agency
of jurisdiction regarding the procedures for reporting and
investigating potentially illegal activity on Job Corps
campuses.
``(5) Incident reporting.--The Secretary shall establish
procedures for--
``(A) reporting significant health incidents, including
substance abuse, self-harm, and accidents resulting in bodily
harm; and
``(B) reporting significant behavioral incidents, defined
as acts of violence or illegal activity.
``(6) Accountability.--The Secretary shall establish
standards under which a Job Corps campus shall be required to
take performance improvement actions described in section
159(f), based on an evaluation of such Job Corps campus,
which shall take into account reporting data collected under
paragraph (5) and recommendations of the advisory group
pursuant to paragraph (3).''.
(i) Experimental Projects and Technical Assistance.--
Section 156(a) (29 U.S.C. 3206(a)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(a) Projects.--The Secretary may carry out and repeat
experimental, research, or demonstration projects relating to
the operations of Job Corps campuses. The Secretary may waive
any provisions of this subtitle (other than sections 145,
147, and 159(c)) that the Secretary finds would prevent the
Secretary from carrying out the projects, provided that--
``(1) the project will not result in a reduction in the
number of students served; and
``(2) if the Secretary informs the Committee on Education
and Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee
on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate, in
writing, not less than 90 days in advance of issuing such
waiver.''.
(j) Application of Provisions of Federal Law.--
(1) In general.--Section 157 (29 U.S.C. 3207) is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``(d) Service Contract Act.--
``(1) In general.--Operators and service providers,
including subcontractors thereto, are subject to and shall be
required to abide by chapter 67 of title 41, United States
Code (commonly known as the `McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract
Act of 1965').
``(2) Academic and career technical instructional
employees.--Notwithstanding section 6701(3)(C) of such
chapter, an academic or career technical instructional
employee at a Job Corps campus shall be considered a `service
employee' for purposes of applying such chapter under
paragraph (1).
``(3) Rule of construction.--To the extent compensation
levels being paid or scheduled to be paid by an employer are,
in the aggregate, greater than those determined by the
Secretary of Labor to be required under this subsection, or
as set forth in a collective bargaining agreement, nothing
herein shall be construed to require a reduction of such
compensation.''.
(2) Effective date.--
(A) Agreements in effect on date of enactment.--Not later
than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Secretary shall, subject to appropriations, modify all
agreements with operators and service providers in effect as
of such date of enactment to include the requirements imposed
by the amendment made by paragraph (1).
(B) Pending solicitations.--Upon the date of enactment of
this Act, the Secretary shall include the requirements
imposed by the amendment made by paragraph (1) in any pending
solicitation for an operator or service provider.
(k) Staffing.--
(1) In general.--To ensure compliance with chapter 67 of
title 41, United States Code (commonly known as the
`McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act of 1965'), as such
chapter is applied by section 157(d) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act, the staffing plan and the
associated budget of an entity proposing to be an operator or
service provider for a Job Corps campus shall incorporate
hourly wages (or salaries as appropriate) and fringe benefit
costs for occupational classifications at least equal to the
wage determination determined by the Secretary of Labor for
the locality of the Job Corps campus. In preparing such wage
determination, the Secretary shall compare the specific job
classifications at the Job Corps campus with those
occupations most closely correlated with those employed by
public education providers in the locality with the goal of
ensuring equivalency to the maximum extent feasible.
(2) Adjustments permitted.--The Secretary may further
adjust compensation levels in a contract with an operator or
service provider to ensure sufficient availability and
retention of qualified personnel in the locality.
(3) Annual updates.--The Secretary shall update hourly
wages (or salaries as appropriate) and fringe benefit levels
for such occupations covered in this paragraph on an annual
basis.
(l) Special Provisions.--Section 158(f) (29 U.S.C. 3208(f))
is amended--
(1) by striking ``Secretary'' and inserting ``directors of
Job Corps campuses'';
(2) by striking ``the Job Corps or individual'' and
inserting ``such''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following: ``Any real property
acquired shall be directly transferred to the Secretary in
accordance with chapter 5 of title 40 and on a
nonreimbursable basis.''
(m) Management Information.--Section 159 (29 U.S.C. 3209)
is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Annual reconciliation.--Prior to the expiration of
any appropriated Job Corps operations funds for any fiscal
year, any anticipated unobligated funds may, subject to
appropriations, be obligated to projects identified under
subsection (h)(1).'';
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) Levels of performance and indicators.--
``(A) In general.--At the start of each contract period,
and at least every two program years in the case of Civilian
Conservation Centers, the Secretary shall establish expected
levels of performance for each Job Corps campus relating to
each of the primary indicators of performance for eligible
youth described in section 116(b)(2)(A)(ii) using the model
described in subparagraph (B).
``(B) Performance model.--At least every four years and no
more than every two years, the Secretary shall develop a
model for establishing the expected levels of performance for
each Job Corps campus, in accordance with the following:
``(i) Equity.--The model shall account for significant
correlations between various factors and student outcomes,
including:
``(I) Student demographics, including age, gender, race,
ethnicity, documented disabilities, and education level on
entry.
``(II) Employment conditions in students' home communities.
``(ii) Development.--The model shall be developed by
subject matter experts in the fields of Job Corps operations,
program evaluation, statistical analysis, and related fields
using available Job Corps data as well as regional economic
data.
``(iii) Transparency.--The performance model and the past
effectiveness metric identified in section 147(a)(2)(B)(i),
including the procedures outlined in section
147(a)(2)(B)(iv), shall be published for comment in the
Federal Register.'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and'' at the end;
and
(ii) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the
following:
``(B) the number of enrollees recruited that meet the
requirements of section 144(a)(2)(A); and
``(C) the measurement described in subparagraph (K) of
subsection (d)(1).''; and
(C) in paragraph (4)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) information on the performance of the Job Corps
selection process in section 147(a)(2) with respect to
increasing performance as measured pursuant to subparagraph
(A), specifically including information on the performance of
each Job Corps campus as compared to its annual performance
immediately prior to its current operating agreement.'';
(3) in subsection (d)(1)--
(A) by striking subparagraph (I); and
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (J) through (O) as
subparagraphs (I) through (N), respectively;
(4) in subsection (f)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (E), by adding ``or'' at the end;
(ii) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``; or'' and
inserting a period; and
(iii) by striking subparagraph (G); and
(B) by amending paragraph (4) to read as follows:
``(4) Civilian conservation centers.--In addition to the
primary indicators of performance specified in subsection
(c)(1), Civilian Conservation Centers shall be evaluated on
their contribution to the nation's conservation goals by the
Secretaries of Agriculture and Labor. If the Secretaries
jointly conclude that a Civilian Conservation Center is not
meeting these dual performance goals, they may take
performance improvement actions described in subparagraph
(A), (B), or (C) of paragraph (2) of this subsection.''; and
(5) in subsection (g)(2)--
(A) by striking ``has entered'' and inserting ``enters'';
and
(B) by striking ``comply'' and inserting ``attest to
compliance''.
(n) Technical Amendment.--Subtitle C of title I (29 U.S.C.
3191 et seq.) is amended by striking ``Committee on Education
and the Workforce'' each place it appears and inserting
``Committee on Education and Labor''.
(o) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 162 (29
U.S.C. 3212) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 162. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated
to carry out this subtitle--
``(1) $1,809,857,925 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $1,873,202,952 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $1,938,765,056 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $2,006,621,833 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $2,076,853,597 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $2,149,543,473 for fiscal year 2028.
(b) Construction Costs.--Of the amount authorized in
subsection (a) for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2028, a
portion of the funds shall be for construction,
rehabilitation, and acquisition of Job Corps Campuses, as
determined by the Secretary.
Subtitle D--National Programs
SEC. 271. NATIVE AMERICAN PROGRAMS.
Section 166 (29 U.S.C. 3221) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c), by striking ``, on a competitive
basis,'';
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) are evidence-based, to the extent practicable.''; and
(B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Workforce development activities and supplemental
services.--Funds made available under subsection (c) shall be
used for--
``(A) comprehensive workforce development activities for
Indians, Alaska Natives, or Native Hawaiians, including
training on entrepreneurial skills; or
``(B) supplemental services for Indian, Alaska Native, or
Native Hawaiian youth on or near Indian reservations and in
Oklahoma, Alaska, or Hawaii.''; and
(3) in subsection (i)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the heading, by striking ``unit'' and inserting
``division''; and
(ii) by striking ``unit'' and inserting ``division'';
(B) in paragraph (4)--
(i) by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
``(B) Composition.--
``(i) In general.--The Council shall be composed of
individuals, appointed by the Secretary, who are
representatives of the entities described in subsection (c).
``(ii) Vacancies.--Any member appointed to fill a vacancy
occurring before the expiration of the term for which the
member's predecessor was appointed shall be appointed only
for the remainder of that term. A member may serve after the
expiration of that member's term until a successor has taken
office.''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``unit'' and
inserting ``division''; and
(C) in paragraph (5), by striking ``unit'' and inserting
``division''.
SEC. 272. MIGRANT AND SEASONAL FARMWORKER PROGRAMS.
Section 167 (29 U.S.C. 3222) is amended--
(1) in subsection (d), by inserting ``be used for the 4-
year period for which funds are provided under this section,
and which may'' after ``which may'';
(2) in subsection (h)--
(A) in the heading, by inserting ``; Funding Obligation''
after ``Funding Allocation'';
(B) by striking ``From the'' and inserting the following:
``(1) Funding allocation.--From the''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) Funding obligation.--
``(A) In general.--Funds appropriated and made available to
carry out this section for any fiscal year may be obligated
to any entity described in subsection (b) during the period
beginning on April 1 of the calendar year that begins during
such fiscal year, and ending on June 30 of the following
calendar year.
``(B) Obligated amount.--Funds made available under this
section for a fiscal year to any entity described in
subsection (b) shall be obligated and available for
expenditure by such entity for the period beginning on July 1
of the calendar year that begins during such fiscal year,
ending on June 30 of the fourth calendar year that begins
after such fiscal year, except that the Secretary may extend
such period if the Secretary determines that such extension
is necessary to ensure the effective use of such funds by
such entity.''; and
(3) in subsection (i)--
(A) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Eligible migrant farmworker.--The term `eligible
migrant farmworker' has the meaning given the term `migrant
farmworker' in section 3, except that such term also includes
a dependent of the farmworker.''; and
(B) by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:
``(3) Eligible seasonal farmworker.--The term `eligible
seasonal farmworker' has the meaning given the term `seasonal
farmworker' in section 3, except that such term also includes
a dependent of the farmworker.''.
SEC. 273. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
Section 168(a)(1) (29 U.S.C. 3223(a)(1)) is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``staff development'' and inserting ``professional
development for staff'';
(2) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``professional
development and'' after ``the'' the first place it appears;
(3) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows:
``(D) technical assistance and the training of members of
State boards and local boards through grants, cooperative
agreements, contracts, and other arrangements with business
and labor intermediaries;'';
(4) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(5) in subparagraph (H), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and'' ; and
(6) by adding at the end the following:
``(I) the training of staff at one-stop centers on trauma-
informed approaches, age, gender and racial biases, and the
unique safety challenges faced by survivors of gender-based
violence.''.
SEC. 274. EVALUATIONS AND RESEARCH.
Section 169 (29 U.S.C. 3224) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (4), by striking ``2019'' and inserting
``2027''; and
(B) in paragraph (6), by striking ``the Workforce'' and
inserting ``Labor'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``the Workforce'' and
inserting ``Labor''; and
(B) in paragraph (4)--
(i) by striking subparagraphs (B) through (J);
(ii) by redesignating subparagraph (K) as subparagraph (C);
(iii) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following:
``(B) Study on correctional education and training.--The
Secretary of Labor, in coordination with the Secretary of
Education, may conduct a study to determine the feasibility
of, and potential means to replicate the measurement of
recidivism for former criminal offenders who participated in
adult employment and training activities under this title or
correctional institution education programs under title II to
improve the quality and performance of such services or
activities.''; and
(iv) in subparagraph (C), as so redesignated, by striking
``the Workforce'' and inserting ``Labor'';
(3) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d); and
(4) by inserting after subsection (b) the following:
``(c) Workforce Development Innovation Fund.--
``(1) Program authorized.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary may award workforce
development innovation grants, on a competitive basis, to
eligible entities to enable such entities to--
``(i) create, implement, replicate, or take to scale
evidence-based, or field-initiated innovation programs and
services for improving the design and delivery of employment
and training services that generate long-term improvements in
the performance of the workforce development system, in
outcomes for job-seekers (including individuals with barriers
to employment), and in the cost-effectiveness of programs and
services; and
``(ii) rigorously evaluate such programs and services in
accordance with this subsection.
``(B) Description of grants.--The grants described in
subparagraph (A) shall include--
``(i) early-phase grants to fund the development,
implementation, and feasibility testing of an innovation
program or service, which prior research suggests has
promise, for the purpose of determining whether such program
or service can successfully improve the design and delivery
of employment and training services that generate long-term
improvements in the performance of the workforce development
system, in outcomes for job-seekers (including individuals
with barriers to employment), and in the cost-effectiveness
of such programs and services;
``(ii) mid-phase grants to fund implementation and a well-
designed and well-implemented evaluation of such a program or
service that has been successfully implemented under an
early-phase grant described in clause (i) or other effort
meeting similar criteria, for the purpose of measuring the
impact and cost effectiveness of such programs or services,
using data collected pursuant to the implementation of such
program or service, if possible; and
``(iii) expansion grants to fund implementation and a well-
designed and well-implemented replication evaluation of such
a program or service that has been found to produce sizable,
important impacts under a mid-phase grant described in clause
(ii) or other effort meeting similar criteria, for the
purposes of--
``(I) determining whether such impacts may be successfully
reproduced and sustained over time; and
``(II) identifying the conditions in which such a program
or service is most effective.
``(2) Technical assistance.--Of the funds made available to
carry out this subsection for a fiscal year, the Secretary
shall reserve not more than 5 percent of the funds to--
``(A) provide technical assistance to eligible entities,
which may include preapplication workshops, web-based
seminars, and evaluation support; and
``(B) disseminate evidence-based best practices.
``(3) Definitions.--In this subsection:
``(A) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means
any of the following:
``(i) A State board.
``(ii) A local board.
``(iii) An Indian tribe, tribal organization, Alaska Native
entity, Indian-controlled organization serving Indians, or
Native Hawaiian organization that is eligible to receive an
award under section 166.
``(iv) A community-based, nonprofit, or nongovernmental
organization serving an underserved population.
``(v) An institution of higher education (as defined in
section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1001)).
``(vi) A consortium of such entities described under clause
(i) through clause (v).
``(B) Well-designed and well-implemented.--The term `well-
designed and well-implemented', as applied to an evaluation
study, means a study that is conducted in a manner consistent
with applicable evaluation, data, and privacy standards and
practices of the Office of Management and Budget.
``(4) Authorization of appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection,
such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years
2023 through 2028.''.
SEC. 275. NATIONAL DISLOCATED WORKER GRANTS.
Section 170(c)(1)(B) (29 U.S.C. 3225(c)(1)(B)) is amended
by striking ``and any other'' and all that follows through
``dislocations.'' and inserting ``which may include a
national or regional intermediary that provides employment
and training activities to dislocated workers.''.
SEC. 276. YOUTHBUILD PROGRAM.
Section 171 (29 U.S.C. 3226) is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)--
(A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) Reservation, amount of grants.--
``(A) Reservation.--In any fiscal year in which the amount
appropriated to carry out this section is greater than
$125,000,000, the Secretary shall reserve 20 percent of such
amount that is greater than $125,000,000 for--
``(i) grants to applicants that are located in rural areas
(as defined by the Secretary); and
``(ii) programs operated by an Indian tribe or for the
benefit of the members of an Indian Tribe for the purpose of
carrying out YouthBuild programs approved under this section.
``(B) Amount of grants.--After making the reservation
described under subparagraph (A), the Secretary may use the
remaining amount appropriated to carry out this section to
make grants to applicants for the purpose of carrying out
YouthBuild programs approved under this section.'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) in clause (iv)(II), by striking ``English language
learners'' and inserting ``English learners'';
(II) in clause (vii), by striking ``12'' and inserting
``24''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(I) Provision of meals and other food assistance that is
offered to participants in conjunction with another activity
described in this paragraph.
``(J) Informing participants of their eligibility, and
assisting participants in applying, for Federal and State
means tested benefit programs, such as the supplemental
nutrition assistance program, and assistance provided by the
State through the Child Care Development Block Grant Act.
``(K) Supportive services for individuals with disabilities
to ensure such individuals may fully participate in a
YouthBuild program.''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(6) Use of funds for match.--Consistent with the
requirements described under subsection (e)(3), an entity
which receives a grant under this section may use a portion
of such grant to meet all or a portion of the requirement to
provide matching funds under section 121(e) of the National
and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12571(e)) or any
other such requirements under such Act.'';
(2) in subsection (e)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking ``youth offender''
and inserting ``youth justice-involved individual''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B)(i), by striking ``basic skills
deficient'' and inserting ``foundational skill needs'';
(3) in subsection (f), by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Consultation.--In establishing expected levels of
performance under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult,
on not less than an annual basis, with YouthBuild programs to
ensure such levels of performance account for the workforce
and postsecondary experiences of youth served by such
programs.'';
(4) in subsection (g), by adding 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 that such
grants are announced.
``(5) State wage data.--States receiving grants under this
Act shall facilitate access to wage data of participants in
YouthBuild programs for the purpose of meeting the
requirements of this section. Such facilitation shall not
reduce any protections afforded by the State that protect the
privacy of participant information.''; 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--
``(1) $159,500,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $167,500,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $175,900,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $184,700,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $193,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $203,600,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
SEC. 277. STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY COLLEGES TRAINING GRANTS
PROGRAM.
Subtitle D of title I (29 U.S.C. 3221 et seq.), as amended
by this Act is further amended--
(1) by redesignating section 172 as section 176; and
(2) by inserting after section 171 the following:
``SEC. 172. STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY COLLEGES TRAINING GRANTS
PROGRAM.
``(a) Purposes.--The purposes of this section are--
``(1) to establish, improve, or expand high-quality
educational or career training programs at community
colleges; and
``(2) to expand opportunities for individuals to obtain
recognized postsecondary credentials that are nationally or
regionally portable and stackable for high-skill, high-wage,
or in-demand industry sectors or occupations.
``(b) Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants
Program.--
``(1) In general.--From the amounts appropriated to carry
out this section under subsection (j) and not reserved under
paragraph (2), the Secretary shall, on a competitive basis,
make grants to eligible institutions to carry out the
activities described in subsection (e).
``(2) Reservation.--Of the amounts appropriated to carry
out this section under subsection (j), the Secretary may
reserve not more than two percent for the administration of
grants awarded under this section, including--
``(A) providing technical assistance and targeted outreach
to support eligible institutions serving a high number or
high percentage of low-income individuals or individuals with
barriers to employment, and rural-serving eligible
institutions, to provide guidance and assistance in the
process of applying for grants under this section; and
``(B) evaluating and reporting on the performance and
impact of programs funded under this section in accordance
with subsections (f) and (g).
``(c) Award Period.--
``(1) Initial grant period.--Each grant under this section
shall be awarded for an initial period of not more than 4
years.
``(2) Subsequent grants.--An eligible institution that
receives an initial grant under this section may receive one
or more additional grants under this section for additional
periods of not more than 4 years each if the eligible
institution demonstrates that the community college and
industry partnership supported with the initial grant was
successful (as determined by the Secretary on the basis of
the levels of performance achieved with respect to the
performance indicators described in subsection (g).
``(d) Application.--
``(1) In general.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section, an eligible institution shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner,
and containing such information as the Secretary may require.
``(2) Contents.--At a minimum, an application submitted by
an eligible institution under paragraph (1) shall include a
description of each the following:
``(A) The extent to which the eligible institution included
in the partnership has prior experience in leading similar
capacity building projects that demonstrates the
institution's ability to accomplish multi-pronged, complex
projects and an explanation of the results of any such
projects.
``(B) The extent to which the eligible institution can--
``(i) leverage additional resources to support the programs
funded with the grant; and
``(ii) demonstrate the future sustainability of each such
program.
``(C) The steps the institution will take to ensure the
quality of each program supported by the grant, including the
career pathways within such programs.
``(D) The needs that will be addressed by the community
college and industry partnership supported by the grant.
``(E) The population and geographic area to be served by
the partnership.
``(F) One or more industries that the partnership will
target and data demonstrating that those industries are
aligned with employer demand in the geographic area to be
served by the partnership.
``(G) The educational or career training programs to be
supported by the grant.
``(H) The recognized postsecondary credentials that are
expected to be earned by participants in such programs and
the related in-demand industry sectors or occupations for
which such programs will prepare participants.
``(I) The evidence upon which the education and training
strategies to be used in the programs are based and an
explanation of how such evidence influenced the design of the
programs to improve education and employment outcomes.
``(J) The methods and strategies the partnership will use
to engage with employers in in-demand industry sectors or
occupations.
``(K) The roles and responsibilities of each employer,
organization, agency, or institution of higher education with
which the eligible institution will partner to carry out
activities under this section.
``(L) Whether, and to what extent, the activities of the
partnership are expected to align with the workforce
strategies identified in--
``(i) any State plan or local plan submitted under this Act
by the State, outlying area, or locality in which the
partnership is expected to operate;
``(ii) any State plan submitted under section 122 of the
Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006
(20 U.S.C. 2342) by such State or outlying area; and
``(iii) any economic development plan of the chief
executive of such State or outlying area.
``(M) How the eligible institution will identify and define
appropriate performance outcome measurements (as determined
by the Secretary) to measure.
``(i) how activities supported by the grant build capacity
for in-demand skills training, such as by increasing the
breadth and depth of employer engagement and by developing
and implementing new and accelerated instructional techniques
or technologies;
``(ii) the expected performance of individuals
participating in the programs to be offered by the eligible
institution, including with respect to any performance
indicators applicable under section 116; and
(iii) any other performance outcomes identified by the
Secretary.
``(3) Consideration of previous experience.--The Secretary
may not disqualify an otherwise eligible institution from
receiving a grant under this section solely because such
institution lacks previous experience in capacity building
projects, as described in subparagraph (2)(A).
``(4) Priority.--In awarding grants under this section, the
Secretary shall give priority to eligible entities that will
use the grant to serve--
``(A) individuals with barriers to employment; or
``(B) incumbent workers who need to gain or improve
foundational skills to enhance their employability.
``(e) Uses of Funds.--
``(1) Community college and industry partnership.--For the
purpose of carrying out the activities specified in
paragraphs (2) and (3), an eligible institution that receives
a grant under this section shall establish a partnership or
continue an existing partnership with one or more employers
in an in-demand industry sector or occupation and shall
maintain such partnership for the duration of the grant
period. The eligible institution shall ensure that the
partnership--
``(A) targets one or more specific high-skill, high-wage,
or in-demand industries;
``(B) includes collaboration with the workforce development
system;
``(C) serves adult and dislocated workers, incumbent
workers, and new entrants to the workforce;
``(D) uses an evidence-based program design that is
appropriate for the activities carried out by the
partnership; and
``(E) incorporates, to the extent appropriate, virtual
service delivery to facilitate technology-enabled learning.
``(2) Required activities.--An eligible institution that
receives a grant under this section, in consultation with the
partnership established under paragraph (1), shall--
``(A) establish, improve, or expand high quality, evidence-
based education or career training programs, career pathway
programs, or work-based learning programs (including
apprenticeship programs or pre-apprenticeships that qualify
an individual for participation in an apprenticeship
program); and
``(B) use not less than 15 percent of the grant to provide
supportive services to individuals participating in the
programs funded with the grant to facilitate retention and
program completion, which may include--
``(i) childcare, transportation, mental health services,
and assistance in obtaining health insurance coverage and
housing;
``(ii) assistance in accessing State and Federal means-
tested benefits programs;
``(iii) career navigation, coaching, mentorship, and case
management services, including providing information and
outreach to individuals with barriers to employment to
encourage such individuals to participate in programs funded
with the grant; and
``(iv) providing access to course materials, technological
devices, required equipment, and other supports necessary for
participation in and successful completion of such programs.
``(3) Additional activities.--In addition to the activities
required under paragraph (2), an eligible institution that
receives a grant under this section, in consultation with the
partnership established under paragraph (1), shall carry out
one or more of the following activities:
``(A) Establish, improve, or expand--
``(i) articulation agreements (as defined in section
486A(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1093a(a)));
``(ii) credit transfer agreements;
``(iii) corequisite remediation programs that enable a
student to receive remedial education services while enrolled
in a postsecondary course rather than requiring the student
to receive remedial education before enrolling in a such a
course;
``(iv) dual or concurrent enrollment programs;
``(v) competency-based education and assessment; or
``(vi) policies and processes to award academic credit for
prior learning or for the programs described in paragraph
(2).
``(B) Make available, in a format that is open, searchable,
and easily comparable, information on--
``(i) curricula and recognized postsecondary credentials
offered through programs funded with the grant, including any
curricula or credentials created or further developed using
such grant;
``(ii) the skills or competencies developed by individuals
who participate in such programs; and
``(iii) related employment and earnings outcomes.
``(C) Establish or implement plans for providers of the
programs described in paragraph (2) to meet the criteria and
carry out the procedures necessary to be included on the
eligible training services provider list described in section
122(d).
``(D) Purchase, lease, or refurbish specialized equipment
as necessary to carry out such programs.
``(E) Reduce or eliminate unmet financial need relating to
participants' cost of attendance (as defined under section
472 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1087ll))
in such programs.
``(4) Administrative cost limit.--An eligible institution
may use not more than 10 percent of the funds received under
this section for administrative costs, including costs
related to collecting information, analysis, and coordination
for purposes of subsection (f).
``(f) Performance Levels and Performance Reviews.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall develop and
implement guidance that establishes the levels of performance
that are expected to be achieved by each community college
and industry partnership funded with a grant under this
section. Such performance levels shall be based on the
following indicators:
``(A) Each of the primary indicators of performance for
adults described in section 116(b).
``(B) The extent to which the partnership built capacity
by--
``(i) increasing the breadth and depth of employer
engagement and investment in educational and training
programs in the in-demand industry sectors and occupations
targeted by the partnership;
``(ii) designing or implementing new and accelerated
instructional techniques or technologies, including the use
of advanced online and technology-enabled learning; and
``(iii) increasing program and policy alignment across
systems and decreasing duplicative services or service gaps.
``(C) With respect to individuals who participated in an
education or training program funded with the grant--
``(i) the percentage of participants who successfully
completed a program; and
``(ii) of the participants who were incumbent workers at
the time of enrollment in the program, the percentage who
advanced into higher-level positions during or after
completing the program.
``(D) Such other indicators of performance as the Secretary
determines appropriate.
``(2) Consultation and determination of performance
levels.--
``(A) Consultation.--In developing the performance levels
under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with each
partnership funded with a grant under this section.
``(B) Determination.--After completing the consultation
required under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall
separately determine the performance levels that will apply
to each partnership taking into account--
``(i) the expected performance levels of each eligible
entity with respect to the goals described in subsection
(d)(2)(M); and
``(ii) local economic conditions in the geographic area to
be served by the partnership, including differences in
unemployment rates and job losses or gains in particular
industries.
``(C) Notice and acknowledgment.--
``(i) Notice.--The Secretary shall provide each partnership
with a written notification that sets forth the performance
levels that will apply to the partnership, as determined
under subparagraph (B).
``(ii) Acknowledgment.--After receiving the notification
described in clause (i), each partnership shall submit to the
Secretary written confirmation that the partnership--
``(I) received the notification; and
``(II) agrees to be evaluated in accordance with the
performance levels set by the Secretary.
``(3) Performance reviews.--On an annual basis during each
year of the grant period, the Secretary shall evaluate the
performance of each partnership funded with a grant under
this section in a manner consistent with paragraph (2).
``(4) Failure to meet performance levels.--After conducting
an evaluation under paragraph (3), if the Secretary
determines that a partnership did not achieve the performance
levels applicable to the partnership under paragraph (2) the
Secretary shall--
``(A) provide technical assistance to the partnership and
``(B) develop a performance improvement plan for the
partnership.
``(g) Evaluations and Reports.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 5 years after the date on
which the first grant is made under this section, the
Secretary shall design and conduct an evaluation to determine
the overall effectiveness of the community college and
industry partnerships funded under this section.
``(2) Elements.--The evaluation conducted under paragraph
(1) shall include an assessment of the general effectiveness
of programs and activities supported by grants awarded under
this section, including the extent to which the programs and
activities--
``(A) developed new or expanded existing successful
industry sector strategies, including the extent to which
such partnerships deepened employer engagement and developed
education and training programs that met industry skill
needs;
``(B) created, expanded, or enhanced career pathways,
including the extent to which the partnerships developed or
improved competency-based education and assessment, credit
for prior learning, modularized and self-paced curricula,
integrated education and career training, dual enrollment in
secondary and postsecondary career pathways, stacked and
latticed credentials, and online and distance learning;
``(C) created alignment between community colleges and the
workforce development system;
``(D) assisted individuals with finding, retaining, or
advancing in employment;
``(E) assisted individuals with earning recognized
postsecondary credentials; and
``(F) served various demographic groups, including people
of different geographic locations, ages, races, national
origins, and sex.
``(3) Design requirements.--The evaluation under this
subsection shall--
``(A) be designed by the Secretary (acting through the
Chief Evaluation Officer) in conjunction with the
partnerships being evaluated;
``(B) include analysis of participant feedback and outcome
and process measures; and
``(C) use designs that employ the most rigorous analytical
and statistical methods that are reasonably feasible, such as
the use of control groups.
``(4) Data accessibility.--The Secretary shall make
available on a publicly accessible website of the Department
of Labor any data collected as part of the evaluation under
this subsection. Such data shall be made available in an
aggregated format that does not reveal personally
identifiable information.
``(5) Publication and reporting of evaluation findings.--
The Secretary (acting through the Chief Evaluation Officer)
shall--
``(A) in accordance with the timeline determined to be
appropriate by the Chief Evaluation Officer, publish an
interim report on the preliminary results of the evaluation
conducted under this subsection;
``(B) not later than 60 days after the date on which the
evaluation is completed under this subsection, submit to the
Committee on Education and Labor of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report on such
evaluation; and
``(C) not later than 90 days after such completion date,
publish and make the results of the evaluation available on a
publicly accessible website of the Department of Labor.
``(h) Annual Reports.--The Secretary shall make available
on a publicly accessible website of the Department of Labor,
in transparent, linked, open, and interoperable data formats,
the following information:
``(1) The performance of partnerships on the capacity-
building performance indicator set forth under subsection
(f)(1)(B).
``(2) The performance of partnerships on the participant
outcome performance indicators set forth under subsection
(f)(1)(C)).
``(3) The number of individuals enrolled in employment and
training activities funded with a grant under this section.
``(i) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Community college.--The term `community college'
means--
``(A) a public institution of higher education (as defined
in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act (20 U.S.C.
1001(a)), at which--
``(i) the highest degree awarded is an associate degree; or
``(ii) an associate degree is the most frequently awarded
degree;
``(B) a branch campus of a 4-year public institution of
higher education (as defined in section 101 of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)), if, at such branch
campus--
``(i) the highest degree awarded is an associate degree; or
``(ii) an associate degree is the most frequently awarded
degree;
``(C) a 2-year Tribal College or University (as defined in
section 316(b)(3) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1059c(b)(3))); or
``(D) a degree-granting Tribal College or University (as
defined in section 316(b)(3) of the Higher Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 1059c(b)(3))) at which--
``(i) the highest degree awarded is an associate degree; or
``(ii) an associate degree is the most frequently awarded
degree.
``(2) Eligible institution.--The term `eligible
institution' means--
``(A) a community college;
``(B) a postsecondary vocational institution (as defined in
section 102(c) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1002(c))); or
``(C) a consortium of such colleges or institutions.
``(j) Supplement Not Supplant.--Funds made available under
this section shall be used to supplement, and not supplant
other Federal, State, and local public funds made available
for carrying out the activities described in this section.
``(k) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--
``(1) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $110,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $121,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $133,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $146,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $161,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
SEC. 278. REENTRY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
Subtitle D of title I (29 U.S.C. 3221 et seq.), as amended
by this Act, is further amended by inserting after section
172, as added by the preceding section, the following:
``SEC. 173. REENTRY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
``(a) Purposes.--The purposes of this section are--
``(1) to improve the employment, earnings, and skill
attainment, and reduce recidivism, of adults and youth who
have been involved with the justice system;
``(2) to prompt innovation and improvement in the reentry
of justice-involved individuals into the workforce so that
successful initiatives can be established or continued and
replicated; and
``(3) to further develop the evidence on how to improve
employment, earnings, and skill attainment, and reduce
recidivism of justice-involved individuals, through rigorous
evaluations of specific services provided, including how they
affect different populations and how they are best combined
and sequenced.
``(b) Reentry Employment Competitive Grants, Contracts, and
Cooperative Agreements Authorized.--
``(1) In general.--From the amounts appropriated under
subsection (h)(1) and not reserved under subsection (h)(2),
the Secretary--
``(A) shall, on a competitive basis, make grants to, or
enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with, eligible
entities to implement reentry projects that serve eligible
adults or eligible youth; and
``(B) may not use less than 25 percent, or more than 40
percent, of such amounts to award funds under subparagraph
(A) to eligible entities that are national or regional
intermediaries to--
``(i) implement the reentry projects described in
subparagraph (A); or
``(ii) provide such funds to other eligible entities--
``(I) to implement such reentry projects; and
``(II) to monitor and support such entities.
``(2) Award periods.--The Secretary shall award funds under
this section for an initial period of not more than 4 years,
and may renew such awards for additional 4-year periods.
``(3) Priority.--In awarding funds under this section, the
Secretary shall give priority to eligible entities whose
applications submitted under subsection (c) demonstrate a
commitment to use such funds to implement reentry projects--
``(A) that will serve high-crime or high-poverty areas;
``(B) that will enroll in such reentry projects eligible
youth or eligible adults--
``(i) prior to the release of such individuals from
incarceration in a correctional institution; or
``(ii) not later than 180 days after such release;
``(C) whose strategy and design are evidence-based
including cognitive behavioral therapy with a workforce
emphasis;
``(D) that establish partnerships with--
``(i) businesses; or
``(ii) institutions of higher education to provide project
participants with programs of study leading to recognized
postsecondary credentials in in-demand occupations;
``(E) that provide training services that are designed to
meet the basic requirements of an employer (including a group
of employers) and are conducted with a commitment by the
employer to employ individuals upon successful completion of
the training; or
``(F) that demonstrate a track record and ongoing
commitment of developing, implementing, and refining reentry
programs that include employment, education, training, and
support services for adults and youth with current or prior
justice system involvement.
``(c) Application.--
``(1) Form and procedure.--To be qualified to receive funds
under this section, an eligible entity shall submit an
application at such time, and in such manner, as determined
by the Secretary, and containing the information described in
paragraph (2).
``(2) Contents.--An application submitted by an eligible
entity under paragraph (1) shall contain the following:
``(A) A description of the eligible entity, including the
experience of the eligible entity in providing employment and
training services for justice-involved individuals.
``(B) A description of the needs that will be addressed by
the reentry project supported by the funds received under
this section, and the target participant population and the
geographic area to be served.
``(C) A description of the proposed employment and training
activities and supportive services, if applicable, to be
provided under such reentry project, and how such activities
and services will prepare participants for employment in in-
demand industry sectors and occupations within the geographic
area to be served by such reentry project.
``(D) The anticipated schedule for carrying out the
activities proposed under the reentry project.
``(E) A description of--
``(i) the partnerships the eligible entity will establish
with agencies and entities within the criminal justice
system, local boards and one-stops, community-based
organizations, and employers (including local businesses) to
provide participants of the reentry project with work-based
learning, job placement, and recruitment (if applicable); and
``(ii) how the eligible entity will coordinate its
activities with other services and benefits available to
justice-involved individuals in the geographic area to be
served by the reentry project.
``(F) A description of the manner in which individuals will
be recruited and selected for participation for the reentry
project.
``(G) A detailed budget and a description of the system of
fiscal controls, and auditing and accountability procedures,
that will be used to ensure fiscal soundness for the reentry
project.
``(H) A description of the expected levels of performance
to be achieved with respect to the performance measures
described in subsection (e).
``(I) A description of the evidence-based practices the
eligible entity will use in administration of the reentry
project, including clear delineation of whether the evidence
is strong, moderate, or promising.
``(J) An assurance that the eligible entity will collect,
disaggregate by race, ethnicity, gender, and other
participant characteristics, and report to the Secretary the
data required with respect to the reentry project carried out
by the eligible entity for purposes of the evaluation under
this section.
``(K) Any other information required by the Secretary.
``(d) Uses of Funds.--
``(1) In general.--An eligible entity that receives funds
under this section shall use such funds to implement a
reentry project for eligible adults, eligible youth, or both
that provides one or more of the following services:
``(A) Supportive services.
``(B) For participants who are eligible youth, one or more
of the program elements listed in subparagraphs (A) through
(N) of section 129(c)(2).
``(C) One or more of the individualized career services
listed in subclause (I) through (IX) of section
134(c)(2)(A)(xii).
``(D) Follow-up services after placement in unsubsidized
employment as described in section 134(c)(2)(A)(xiii).
``(E) One or more of the training services listed in
clauses (i) through (x)(i) in section 134(c)(3)(D), including
subsidized employment opportunities through transitional
jobs.
``(F) Apprenticeship programs.
``(G) Education in digital literacy skills.
``(H) Mentoring.
``(I) Provision of or referral to evidence-based mental
health treatment by licensed practitioners.
``(J) Assistance in obtaining employment as a result of the
establishment and development by the eligible entity of
relationships and networks with large and small employers.
``(K) Assistance with driver's license reinstatement and
fees for driver's licenses and other necessary documents for
employment.
``(L) Provision of or referral to substance abuse treatment
services, provided that funds awarded under this section are
only used to provide such services to participants who are
unable to obtain such services through other programs
providing such services.
``(M) Assistance in obtaining employment as a result of the
coordination by the eligible entity with employers to develop
customized training programs and on-the-job training.
``(2) Administrative cost limit.--An eligible entity may
not use more than 10 percent of the funds received under this
section for administrative costs, including for costs related
to collecting information, analysis, and coordination for
purposes of subsection (e) or (f).
``(e) Levels of Performance.--
``(1) Establishment of levels.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall establish expected
levels of performance for reentry projects funded this
section for--
``(i) each of the primary indicators of performance for
adults and youth described in section 116(b); and
``(ii) the additional performance indicators described in
paragraph (2).
``(B) Updates.--The levels established under subparagraph
(A) shall be updated for each 4-year award period.
``(2) Additional indicators of performance.--In addition to
the indicators described in paragraph (1)(A)(i), the
Secretary--
``(A) shall establish an indicator of performance for
projects funded under this section with respect participant
recidivism; and
``(B) may establish other performance indicators for such
projects as the Secretary determines appropriate.
``(3) Agreement on performance levels.--In establishing and
updating performance levels under paragraph (1), the
Secretary shall reach agreement on such levels with the
eligible entities receiving awards under this section that
will be subject to such levels, based on factors including--
``(A) the expected performance levels of each such eligible
entity described in the application submitted under
subsection (c)(2)(H);
``(B) local economic conditions of the geographic area to
be served by each such eligible entity, including differences
in unemployment rates and job losses or gains in particular
industries; and
``(C) the characteristics of the participants of the
projects when the participants enter the project involved,
including--
``(i) criminal records and indicators of poor work history;
``(ii) lack of work experience;
``(iii) lack of educational or occupational skills
attainment;
``(iv) low levels of literacy or English proficiency;
``(v) disability status;
``(vi) homelessness; and
``(vii) receipt of public assistance.
``(4) Failure to meet performance levels.--In the case of
an eligible entity that fails to meet the performance levels
established under paragraph (1) for the reentry project
involved for any award year, the Secretary shall provide
technical assistance to the eligible entity, including the
development of a performance improvement plan.
``(f) Evaluation of Reentry Projects.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 5 years after the first
award of funds under this section is made, the Secretary
(acting through the Chief Evaluation Officer) shall meet the
following requirements:
``(A) Design and conduct of evaluation.--Design and conduct
an evaluation to evaluate the effectiveness of the reentry
projects funded under this section, which meets the
requirements of paragraph (2), and includes an evaluation of
each of the following:
``(i) The effectiveness of such projects in assisting
individuals with finding employment and maintaining
employment at the second quarter and fourth quarter after
unsubsidized employment is obtained.
``(ii) The effectiveness of such projects in assisting
individuals with earning recognized postsecondary
credentials.
``(iii) The effectiveness of such projects in relation to
their cost, including the extent to which the projects
improve reentry outcomes, including in wages earned, benefits
provided by employers, career advancement, measurable skills
gains, credentials earned, housing, health, and recidivism of
participants in comparison to comparably situated individuals
who did not participate in such projects.
``(iv) The effectiveness of specific services and
interventions provided and of the overall project design.
``(v) If applicable, the extent to which such projects meet
the needs of various demographic groups, including people of
different geographic locations, ages, races, national
origins, sex, and criminal records, and individuals with
disabilities.
``(vi) If applicable, the appropriate sequencing,
combination, or concurrent structure, of services for each
subpopulation of individuals who are participants of such
projects, such as the order, combination, or concurrent
structure and services in which transitional jobs and
occupational skills training are provided, to ensure that
such participants are prepared to fully benefit from
employment and training services provided under the project.
``(vii) Limitations or barriers to education and employment
as a result of occupational or educational licensing
restrictions, access to financial aid, and access to housing.
``(viii) The quality and effectiveness of technical
assistance provided by the Secretary for implementing such
projects.
``(ix) Other elements that the Chief Evaluation Officer may
determine to be appropriate.
``(B) Data accessibility.--Make available, on the publicly
accessible website of the Department of Labor, data collected
during the course of evaluation under this subsection, in an
aggregated format that does not provide personally
identifiable information.
``(2) Design requirements.--An evaluation under this
subsection--
``(A) shall--
``(i) be designed by the Secretary (acting through the
Chief Evaluation Officer) in conjunction with the eligible
entities carrying out the reentry projects being evaluated;
``(ii) include analysis of participant feedback and outcome
and process measures; and
``(iii) use designs that employ the most rigorous
analytical and statistical methods that are reasonably
feasible, such as the use of control groups; and
``(B) may not--
``(i) collect personally identifiable information, except
to the extent such information is necessary to conduct the
evaluation; or
``(ii) reveal or share personally identifiable information.
``(3) Publication and reporting of evaluation findings.--
The Secretary (acting through the Chief Evaluation Officer)
shall--
``(A) in accordance with the timeline determined to be
appropriate by the Chief Evaluation Officer, publish an
interim report on such evaluation;
``(B) not later than 90 days after the date on which any
evaluation is completed under this subsection, publish and
make publicly available such evaluation; and
``(C) not later than 60 days after the completion date
described in subparagraph (B), submit to the Committee on
Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the
Senate a report on such evaluation.
``(g) Annual Report.--
``(1) Contents.--Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary
shall post, using transparent, linked, open, and
interoperable data formats, on its publicly accessible
website an annual report on--
``(A) the number of individuals who participated in
projects assisted under this section for the preceding year;
``(B) the percentage of such individuals who successfully
completed the requirements of such projects; and
``(C) the performance of eligible entities on such projects
as measured by the performance indicators set forth in
subsection (e).
``(2) Disaggregation.--The information provided under
subparagraphs (A) through (C) of paragraph (1) with respect
to a year shall be disaggregated by each project assisted
under this section for such year.
``(h) Authorization of Appropriations; Reservations.--
``(1) Authorization of appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--
``(A) $250,000,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(B) $300,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(C) $350,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(D) $400,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(E) $450,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(F) $500,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(2) Reservation of funds.--Of the funds appropriated
under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year, the Secretary--
``(A) may reserve not more than 5 percent for the
administration of grants, contracts, and cooperative
agreements awarded under this section, of which not more than
2 percent may be reserved for the provision of--
``(i) technical assistance to eligible entities that
receive funds under this section; and
``(ii) outreach and technical assistance to eligible
entities desiring to receive such funds, including assistance
with application development and submission; and
``(B) shall reserve not less than 1 percent and not more
than 2.5 percent for the evaluation activities under
subsection (f) or to support eligible entities with any
required data collection, analysis, and coordination related
to such evaluation activities.
``(i) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Chief evaluation officer.--The term `Chief Evaluation
Officer' means the head of the independent evaluation office
located organizationally in the Office of the Assistant
Secretary for Policy of the Department of Labor.
``(2) Community supervision.--The term `community
supervision' means mandatory oversight (including probation
and parole) of a formerly incarcerated person--
``(A) who was convicted of a crime by a judge or parole
board; and
``(B) who is living outside a secure facility.
``(3) Correctional institution.--The term `correctional
institution' has the meaning given the term in section
225(e).
``(4) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means--
``(A) a private nonprofit organization under section
501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, including a
community-based or faith-based organization;
``(B) a local board;
``(C) a State or local government;
``(D) an Indian or Native American entity eligible for
grants under section 166;
``(E) a labor organization or joint labor-management
organization; or
``(F) a consortium of the entities described in
subparagraphs (A) through (E).
``(5) Eligible adult.--The term `eligible adult' means a
justice-involved individual who--
``(A) is age 25 or older; and
``(B) in the case of an individual that was previously
incarcerated, was released from incarceration not more than 3
years prior to enrollment in a project funded under this
section.
``(6) Eligible youth.--The term `eligible youth' means a
justice-involved individual who is not younger than age 14 or
older than age 24.
``(7) High-crime.--The term `high-crime', when used with
respect to a geographic area, means an area with crime rates
that are higher than the rate for the overall city (for urban
areas) or of non-metropolitan area in the State (for rural
areas), as such terms are used by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
``(8) High-poverty.--The term `high-poverty', when used
with respect to a geographic area, means an area with a
poverty rate of at least 25 percent as determined based on
the most recently available data from the American Community
Survey conducted by the Bureau of the Census.''.
SEC. 279. SECTORAL EMPLOYMENT THROUGH CAREER TRAINING FOR
OCCUPATIONAL READINESS (SECTOR) PROGRAM.
Subtitle D of title I (29 U.S.C. 3221 et seq.), as amended
by this Act, is further amended by inserting after section
173, as added by the preceding section, the following:
``SEC. 174. SECTORAL EMPLOYMENT THROUGH CAREER TRAINING FOR
OCCUPATIONAL READINESS (SECTOR) PROGRAM.
``(a) In General.--From amounts appropriated under
subsection (e)(1), and not reserved under subsection (e)(2),
the Secretary shall--
``(1) use not less than 80 percent of such amounts to award
grants under subsection (b) to each State to develop,
convene, or expand industry or sector partnerships; and
``(2) use not less than 20 percent of such amounts to award
grants under subsection (c), on a competitive basis, to
eligible industry or sector partnerships for the purposes of
expanding workforce development and employment opportunities
for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or
occupations, as determined by the Secretary.
``(b) Formula Grants.--
``(1) Distribution of funds.--
``(A) State allotment.--From the amount determined by the
Secretary under subsection (a)(1), the Secretary shall allot
funds to each State on the basis of the relative allotment
the State received under section 132(b) for such fiscal year,
compared to the total amount allotted to all States under
section 132(b) for such fiscal year.
``(B) Local area allocations.--The Secretary shall use the
amounts allotted under subparagraph (A) to distribute funds
in the State to carry out the activities described in
paragraph (2) by--
``(i) allocating funds to each local area of the State on
the basis of the relative allocation the local area received
under section 133(b) for such fiscal year, compared to the
total amount allocated to all local areas in the State under
section 133(b) for such fiscal year; or
``(ii) allocating funds to local areas of the State that
have the highest rates of unemployment or poverty, or the
highest numbers of individuals with barriers to employment in
the State.
``(2) Use of funds.--The funds awarded under paragraph (1)
may be used to--
``(A) regularly convene stakeholders in a collaborative
structure to identify, develop, improve, or expand training,
employment, and growth opportunities for high-skill, high-
wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations;
``(B) form, expand, and improve training programs, to be
managed by eligible industry and sector partnerships that
include attainment of industry-recognized credentials, the
integration of work-based learning activities with training
curricula and occupational certification programs, and that
address specific workforce issues and needs of groups of
workers, with a priority on individuals with a barrier to
employment, within regional labor markets in the State;
``(C) strengthen the coordination of eligible industry and
sector partnerships and programs with the programs
administered under subtitle B of this title and with the one-
stop partners described in section 121; and
``(D) to directly provide, or arrange for the provision of,
services to help individuals with barriers to employment and
other participants complete and successfully transition out
of training described in subparagraph (B), which services
shall include career services, supportive services, or the
provision of needs-related payments.
``(c) Competitive Grants.--
``(1) Grants authorized.--From the amount determined by the
Secretary under subsection (a)(2), the Secretary shall award
grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible industry or
sector partnerships for the purposes described in subsection
(a)(2).
``(2) Application.--
``(A) Form and procedure.--To receive a grant under this
subsection, the lead applicant on behalf of an eligible
industry or sector partnership shall submit to the Secretary
an application at such time, in such manner, and containing
such information as specified by the Secretary.
``(B) Contents.--An application submitted under paragraph
(1) shall contain at a minimum the following:
``(i) Identification of the high-skill, high-wage, or in-
demand industry sector or occupation on which such
partnership is focused.
``(ii) A description of the activities to be carried out
under the grant.
``(iii) A description of the workers that will be targeted
for recruitment as program participants, how a priority of
service under the grant will be provided to individuals with
barriers to employment, and how the activities will be
designed to maximize access and eliminate barriers to entry
to training and other activities for such individuals.
``(iv) A description of other Federal or non-Federal
resources that will be leveraged in support of the eligible
industry or sector partnership (including cash or in-kind
contributions from private-sector partners).
``(3) Uses of funds.--An eligible industry or sector
partnership awarded a grant under this subsection shall use
such grant funds--
``(A) to engage and regularly convene stakeholders in a
collaborative structure to identify, develop, improve, or
expand training, employment, and growth opportunities for the
high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sector or
occupation on which such partnership is focused;
``(B) to directly provide, or arrange for the provision of,
high-quality, evidence-based training for high-skill, high-
wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations on which
such partnership is focused, which shall include training
that leads to the attainment of nationally or regionally
portable and stackable recognized postsecondary credentials
for the industry sector or occupations described in paragraph
(A), including--
``(i) training provided through apprenticeship programs, or
pre-apprenticeship programs that articulate to apprenticeship
programs, labor organizations, or joint labor-management
partnerships;
``(ii) on-the job training, customized training, and paid
internships and work experience;
``(iii) incumbent worker training to support lower wage
workers in upgrading skills and advancing along a career
pathway; and
``(iv) training services, in addition to those described in
clauses (i) through (iii), that are authorized under section
134(c)(3)(D), including occupational skills training; and
``(C) to directly provide, or arrange for the provision of,
services to help individuals with barriers to employment and
other participants complete and successfully transition out
of training described in subparagraph (B), which services
shall include career services, supportive services, or the
provision of needs-related payments authorized under
subsections (c)(2), (c)(4), and (d)(3) of section 134.
``(4) Priority in selection of grants.--The Secretary shall
give priority consideration in applications that demonstrate
the ability to serve eligible individuals in targeted
economic regions that are experiencing high-poverty, have
traditionally been underserved by regional economic
development and sector partnership activities (including
rural areas), or is facing or at risk of facing significant
worker dislocation due to a disruption or change in the
regional or State economy or labor market.
``(d) Program Accountability and Evaluation.--
``(1) In general.--The grants awarded under this section
are subject to--
``(A) the primary indicators of performance under section
116(b)(2)(A) and expected levels of performance relating to
such indicators; and
``(B) such additional measures as the Secretary deems
appropriate, which may include skills attainment, wage or
career progression, training-related employment, and
additional job quality measures.
``(2) Evaluation.--Not later than 5 years after the first
award of funds under this section is made the Secretary
(acting through the chief evaluation officer) shall design
and conduct an evaluation to evaluate the effectiveness of
the program carried out this section.
``(3) Publication.--The Secretary shall publish the
outcomes of grantees under the indicators and measures
described in paragraph (1) and the evaluation described in
paragraph (2) on a publicly accessible website, and submit
the evaluation findings to the Committee on Education and
Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Health, Education, Labor and Pensions of the Senate.
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations; Reservations.--
``(1) Authorization of appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--
``(A) $1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(B) $1,100,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(C) $1,210,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(D) $1,331,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(E) $1,464,100,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(F) $1,610,510,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(2) Reservation of funds.--Of the funds appropriated
under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year, the Secretary may
reserve not more than 5 percent which--
``(A) may be used for administration of the program
described in this section, in addition to any other funds
available for these activities, including providing
comprehensive technical assistance, targeted outreach to
eligible partnerships serving local areas with high
unemployment rates or high percentages of low-income
individuals or individuals with barriers to employment; and
oversight to support eligible partnerships; and
``(B) shall be used to conduct an evaluation of the
activities carried out under this section and for reporting
on the performance and impact of programs funded under this
section.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Eligible industry or sector partnership.--The term
`eligible industry or sector partnership' means--
``(A) an industry or sector partnership, which shall
include multiple representatives described in each of clauses
(i) through (iii) of paragraph (26)(A) of section 3; or
``(B) a partnership of multiple entities described in
section 3(26) and a State board or local board, that is in
the process of establishing an industry or sector
partnership.
``(2) Lead applicant.--The term `lead applicant' means an
applicant for a grant under this section that is a State
board, local board, institution of higher education, labor-
management partnership, labor organization, industry
association, or other State and regional nonprofit
organizations with experience in designing, convening, and
expanding industry or sector partnerships.''.
SEC. 280. WORKFORCE DATA QUALITY INITIATIVE GRANTS.
Subtitle D of title I (29 U.S.C. 3221 et seq.), as amended
by this Act, is further amended by inserting after section
174, as added by the preceding section, the following:
``SEC. 175. WORKFORCE DATA QUALITY INITIATIVE GRANTS.
``(a) Authority.--The Secretary is authorized to award
grants, on a competitive basis, to States to create workforce
longitudinal administrative databases and associated
resources for the purpose of strengthening workforce
development program quality, protecting privacy, and
improving transparency.
``(b) Priority.--In awarding grants under this section, the
Secretary shall give priority to States that--
``(1) have the greatest need to improve their data
infrastructure;
``(2) will use non-Federal contributions to improve State
data infrastructure and related resources;
``(3) support co-enrollment in workforce related programs;
``(4) participate and contribute data to the State's linked
longitudinal data system, including submitting data that when
linked with elementary and secondary school and postsecondary
data, provides the State the ability to create more data
tools and analytics; and
``(5) enable research and program improvement activities.
``(c) Supplement, Not Supplant.--Funds made available under
this section shall be used to supplement, and not supplant,
other Federal, State, or local funds used for developing
State data systems.
``(d) Administrative Costs.--The Secretary shall reserve
not more than 10 percent of funds made available to carry out
this section for each fiscal year for the provision of
technical assistance to support the implementation of grants
awarded under this section.
``(e) Privacy.--Nothing in this section shall require the
disaggregation of data when the number of individuals in a
category is insufficient to yield statistically reliable
information or when the results would reveal personally
identifiable information about an individual, or would reveal
such information when combined with other released
information.
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section--
``(1) $40,000,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(g) Definition.--In this section, the term `State' has
the meaning given the term in section 3, except such term
also includes each of the outlying areas (as defined in
section 3).''.
SEC. 281. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 176 (as redesignated by section 277), is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 176. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) Native American Programs.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out section 166 (not including
subsection (k) of such section)--
``(1) $66,400,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $73,000,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $80,300,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $88,300,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $97,100,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $106,800,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(b) Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Programs.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 167--
``(1) $109,100,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $114,600,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $120,300,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $126,300,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $132,600,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $139,200,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(c) Technical Assistance.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out section 168--
``(1) $3,600,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $3,800,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $4,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $4,200,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $4,400,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $4,600,000 for fiscal year 2028.
``(d) Evaluations and Research.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out section 169--
``(1) $116,700,000 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $122,500,000 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $128,600,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $135,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $141,800,000 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $148,900,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
Subtitle E--Administration
SEC. 291. NONDISCRIMINATION.
Section 188 (29 U.S.C. 3248) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(5), by adding at the end the
following: ``Provided that it shall not be a violation of
this paragraph to exclude any individual from participation
or employment in programs or activities receiving Federal
financial assistance where such participation or employment,
or access to the premises upon which any part of such
program, activity, or employment is performed, is subject to
any requirements imposed in the interest of the national
security of the United States under any security program in
effect pursuant to or administered under any statute or
regulation of the United States, Executive Order of the
President, or other Federal contractual requirement, and such
individual does not meet such requirements.''; and
(4) in subsection (e) is amended by striking ``Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act'' and inserting ``Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022''.
SEC. 292. SECRETARIAL ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITIES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES.
Section 189 (29 U.S.C. 3249) is amended--
(1) in subsection (d), by striking ``the Workforce'' and
inserting ``Labor'';
(2) in subsection (g)(2)(B)(ii), by striking ``subsection
(a) or (b) of section 169 (relating to evaluations, research
projects, studies and reports, and multistate projects)'' and
inserting ``subsection (a), (b), or (c) of section 169
relating to evaluations, research projects, studies and
reports, multistate projects, and the workforce development
innovation fund'';
(3) by striking subsection (h);
(4) by redesignating subsection (i) as subsection (h); and
(5) by amending paragraph (3)(A)(ii) of subsection (h) (as
so redesignated) to read as follows:
``(ii) any of the statutory or regulatory requirements of
the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.) (excluding
requirements relating to the provision of services to
unemployment insurance claimants and veterans, the provision
of employment services by public employees under a merit
system, the colocation of employment service offices with
one-stop centers, the designation of a cooperating State
agency, and requirements relating to universal access to
basic labor exchange services without cost to jobseekers).''.
SEC. 293. GUARD RAILS FOR PROGRAM INTEGRITY.
Section 194 (29 U.S.C. 3254) is amended by adding at the
end the following:
``(16) An institution of higher education that is a
proprietary institution of higher education (as defined in
section 102(a)(1)(A) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1002(a)(1)(A)) may not be--
``(A) designated or certified as a one-stop operator under
section 121(d), or awarded funds under this title to operate
a one-stop center; or
``(B) appointed to a State board or local board under
section 101 or 107, respectively.''.
TITLE III--ADULT EDUCATION AND FAMILY LITERACY
SEC. 301. FAMILY LITERACY.
The heading of title II of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3271 et seq.) is amended by
inserting ``FAMILY'' before ``LITERACY''.
SEC. 302. PURPOSE.
Section 202 (29 U.S.C. 3271) is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting
``family'' before ``literacy activities'';
(2) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) assist adults to become literate and obtain the
knowledge and skills (including digital skills) necessary for
employment, economic self-sufficiency, and full participation
in all aspects of adult life;''; and
(3) in paragraph (4)(A)--
(A) in clause (i), by striking ``and'' at the end; and
(B) by inserting after clause (ii) the following:
``(iii) digital skills; and''.
SEC. 303. DEFINITIONS.
Section 203 (29 U.S.C. 3272) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (D);
and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:
``(C) develop and use digitial technology skills; and'';
(2) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``, digital skills
activities offered in conjunction with other adult education
and literacy activities'' after ``family literacy
activities'';
(3) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``family'' before
``literacy activities'';
(4) in paragraph (4)(C)--
``(A) in clause (i), by striking `is basic skills
deficient' and inserting `has foundational skills''; and
``(B) in clause (iii), by striking `language';
``(5) in paragraph (6)(A), by striking `language' in the
first place it appears;
``(6) in paragraph (7)--
``(A) in the heading, by striking `Language'; and
``(B) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
`English language learner' and inserting `English learning';
(6) in paragraph (9)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking
``economic prospects'' and inserting ``economic and
educational prospects''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(E) Digital literacy activities to enable parents or
family members to develop and use digital literacy skills to
support their children's learning.'';
(7) by amending paragraph (11) to read as follows:
``(11) Integrated education and training.--The term
`integrated education and training' means a service approach
that provides adult education and family literacy activities
concurrently and contextually with workforce preparation
activities and workforce training for a specific high-wage,
high demand occupation or occupational cluster (including, as
appropriate, for apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship
programs) for the purpose of educational and career
advancement.'';
(8) by amending paragraph (12) to read as follows:
``(12) Integrated english literacy and civics education.--
The term `integrated English literacy and civics education'
means instruction in literacy and English and other education
services provided to English language learners who are
adults, including professionals with degrees and credentials
in their native countries--
``(A) that enables such adults--
``(i) to achieve competency in the English language;
``(ii) to build knowledge of United States history and
civics;
``(iii) to prepare for United States citizenship and the
naturalization process;
``(iv) to use digital technology at levels of proficiency
necessary to function effectively as a worker, a parent or a
family member, and a member of society;
``(v) to apply for Federal and other student financial aid
and enroll in postsecondary education or other further
learning; and
``(vi) to locate and apply for registered apprenticeship or
pre-apprenticeship programs; and
``(B) which may include--
``(i) preparation for a high school equivalency diploma or
postsecondary training or education;
``(ii) preparation for employment;
``(iii) preparation for apprenticeship or pre-
apprenticeship programs, or the provision of information
regarding where to acquire that preparation; or
``(iv) instruction in--
``(I) navigating the early childhood, elementary and
secondary, and postsecondary education systems;
``(II) financial literacy;
``(III) the housing market in the United States; or
``(IV) accessing Federal, State, and local health care
systems.'';
(9) in paragraph (13) by striking ``and solve problems,''
and all that follows through the period at the end and
inserting ``solve problems, and use digital technology at
levels of proficiency necessary to function effectively as an
employee, a parent or a family member, and a member of
society.'';
(10) by redesignating paragraphs (16) and (17) as
paragraphs (17) and (18), respectively;
(11) by inserting after paragraph (15), the following:
``(16) Universal design for learning.--The term `universal
design for learning' has the meaning given the term in
section 103 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1003).''; and
(12) in paragraph (18), as redesignated by paragraph (9)--
(A) by striking ``using information'' and inserting ``using
and acquiring information''; and
(B) by striking ``education or training'' and inserting
``education or training (including registered apprenticeship
and pre-apprenticeship programs)''.
SEC. 304. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 206 (29 U.S.C. 3275) is amended by striking
``$577,667,000 for fiscal year 2015'' and all that follows
through the period at the end and inserting ``$785,100,000
for fiscal year 2023, $824,400,000 for fiscal year 2024,
$865,600,000 for fiscal year 2025, $908,900,000 for fiscal
year 2026, $954,300,000 for fiscal year 2027, and
$1,002,000,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
SEC. 305. PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM.
Section 212 (29 U.S.C. 3292) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 212. PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM.
``(a) In General.--Programs and activities authorized in
this title are subject to the performance accountability
provisions described in section 116.
``(b) Innovative Performance Accountability System
Demonstration Program.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary may authorize one or more
eligible entities to implement an innovative performance
accountability system that uses alternative primary
indicators of performance that reflect the objectives and
activities of the entity's adult education and family
literacy programs and measure the attainment of the education
and employment goals of the participants in such programs.
The innovative performance accountability system may
include--
``(A) performance indicators attained while an individual
is enrolled in an adult education and family literacy
program; and
``(B) performance indicators attained after an individual
exits such a program.
``(2) Demonstration period.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B),
the period during which an eligible entity may carry out an
innovative accountability system authorized under this
subsection shall be a period determined by the Secretary that
does not exceed five years.
``(B) Extension.--The Secretary may extend, by up to one
year, the demonstration period determined under subparagraph
(A) for an eligible entity if--
``(i) the Secretary determines that the innovative
accountability system implemented by the entity is
successfully meeting the objectives of this subsection; and
``(ii) the total period during which the entity implements
such system under the demonstration program, inclusive of
such extension, does not exceed six years.
``(3) Application.--
``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (C), an eligible
entity that seeks authorization to implement an innovative
performance accountability system under this subsection shall
submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may
require.
``(B) Contents.--At a minimum, each application under this
paragraph shall include--
``(i) a description of the objectives of the innovative
performance accountability system proposed by the eligible
entity;
``(ii) a description of such accountability system,
including a description of the performance indicators to be
used;
``(iii) the duration of the period over which the entity
intends to carry out the proposed accountability system;
``(iv) an explanation of why the entity believes the
alternative indicators of performance proposed by the entity
would more accurately measure the attainment of the
objectives of the entity's adult education and family
literacy programs compared to the indicators of performance
described in section 116(b)(2)(A)(i);
``(v) an explanation of how the proposed performance
indicators are expected to provide a valid and reliable
measurement of the effectiveness of the entity's adult
education and family literacy programs with respect to the
individuals served by such programs;
``(vi) a description of how the entity will report to the
Secretary and make publicly available the proposed indicators
of performance on a timely basis;
``(vii) an assurance that the entity will prepare and
submit the final report required under paragraph (4); and
``(viii) a description of how the innovative accountability
system may be relevant to and replicated by States and
outlying areas.
``(C) Review of certain applications.--In a case in which
an eligible entity that is a consortium of eligible providers
seeks authorization to implement an innovative performance
accountability system under this subsection--
``(i) the consortium shall submit the application described
in subparagraph (A) to the eligible agency of the State or
outlying area in which the consortium intends to implement
the system;
``(ii) the eligible agency shall review the application;
and
``(iii) if the eligible agency approves the application,
the agency shall forward the application to the Secretary
together with any comments of the agency regarding the
content of the application.
``(4) Progress report.--
``(A) In general.--Not later than 180 days before the end
of the initial demonstration period applicable to an eligible
entity under paragraph (2)(A), and before the Secretary
authorizes any extension of the demonstration period under
paragraph (2)(B) for such entity, the eligible entity shall
submit to the Secretary a report on the initial progress (in
this paragraph referred to as the `progress report') of the
innovative accountability system implemented by the eligible
entity under this section.
``(B) Elements.--The progress report under subparagraph (A)
shall be based on the annual information submitted by
participating local providers and shall include an assessment
of the following:
``(i) The burden placed on the local programs to implement
and carry out the innovative accountability system.
``(ii) Whether and to what extent--
``(I) the eligible entity has solicited feedback from local
program directors and instructors about their satisfaction
with the innovative accountability system;
``(II) local program instructors and directors have
demonstrated a commitment and capacity to implement or
continue to implement the system;
``(III) the system was used to measure the performance
indicators for all students participating in the system; and
``(IV) the innovative accountability system can be used
across States.
``(C) Peer review.--
``(i) In general.--The eligible entity shall conduct a peer
review of the innovative performance accountability system
implemented by the eligible entity under this section.
``(ii) Peer review team.--For purposes of conducting the
peer review under clause (i), the eligible entity shall
assemble a team of subject matter experts who--
``(I) are knowledgeable about innovative accountability
systems; and
``(II) have demonstrated experience developing and
implementing such systems.
``(iii) Methodology.--The methodology of the peer review
shall meet requirements to be jointly established by the
Secretary of Labor and Secretary of Education.
``(iv) Elements.--The peer review shall determine the
extent to which the innovative accountability system includes
primary indicators that reflect the objectives and activities
of the State's adult education and family literacy programs.
``(D) Comments.--The eligible entity shall provide a
response to the findings of the progress report.
``(E) Public availability.--The progress report under this
paragraph, including any comments provided under subparagraph
(D), shall be made available on a publicly accessible website
of the eligible entity.
``(5) Final report.--Not later than one year after the
conclusion of the demonstration period applicable to an
eligible entity under paragraph (2), the entity shall submit
to the Secretary a report on the results of the innovative
performance accountability system implemented by the entity
under this subsection. Each such report shall include the
entity's assessment of whether, and to what extent, the
innovative performance accountability system achieved its
objectives.
``(6) Continued reporting.--An eligible entity shall
continue to report to the State, or the Secretary, as
applicable, on the indicators of performance described in
section 116(b)(2)(A)(i) during the demonstration period.
``(7) Development and dissemination of best practices.--The
Secretary shall--
``(A) based on the results of the demonstration programs
authorized under this subsection and in consultation with the
Director of the Institute of Education Sciences and the
Secretary of Labor, identify best practices for the
development and implementation of innovative performance
accountability systems; and
``(B) disseminate information on those practices, including
by making such information available on a publicly accessible
website of the Department of Education.
``(8) Relationship to other requirements.--Nothing in this
subsection shall be construed to supersede the requirements
of section 116 or to authorize the Secretary to modify or
replace the performance accountability measures required
under section 116. An eligible entity participating in a
demonstration program under this subsection shall be subject
to the applicable requirements of section 116 while
participating in such program.
``(9) Eligible entity defined.--In this subsection, the
term `eligible entity' means--
``(A) an eligible agency;
``(B) a consortium of eligible agencies; or
``(C) a consortium of eligible providers within a State or
outlying area.''.
SEC. 306. STATE DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS; MATCHING REQUIREMENT.
Section 222(b) (29 U.S.C. 3302(b)) is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``(3) Public availability of information on matching
funds.--Each eligible agency shall maintain, on a publicly
accessible website of such agency and in an easily accessible
format, information documenting the non-Federal contributions
made available to adult education and family literacy
programs pursuant to this subsection, including--
``(A) the sources of such contributions; and
``(B) in the case of funds made available by a State or
outlying area, an explanation of how such funds are
distributed to eligible providers.''
SEC. 307. STATE LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES.
Section 223(a) (29 U.S.C. 3303(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(C)--
(A) by amending clause (ii) to read as follows:
``(ii) the role of eligible providers as a one-stop partner
to provide access to employment, education (including
apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs), and training
services;'';
(B) in clause (iii), by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) assistance for students to be able to locate and
apply for apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs.'';
and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (J), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``, such as the development and maintenance of
policies for the credentialing of adult educators who
demonstrate effectiveness.'';
(B) in subparagraph (K), by striking `English language
learners' and inserting `English learners';
(C) by redesignating subparagraph (M) as subparagraph (N);
and
(D) by inserting after subparagraph (L) the following:
``(M) Strengthening the quality of adult education and
family literacy programs in the State through support for
improved credentials, program quality standards, and
certification and accreditation requirements.''.
SEC. 308. GRANTS AND CONTRACTS FOR ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS.
(a) English Learner.--Section 231(e)(1)(B)(ii) (29 U.S.C.
3321(e)(1)(B)(ii) is amended by striking `language'.
(b) Best Practices.--Section 231(e)(6) (29 U.S.C.
3321(e)(6)) is amended by striking ``including scientifically
valid research and effective educational practice'' and
inserting ``including the application of the principles of
universal design for learning, scientifically valid research,
and effective educational practice''.
SEC. 309. LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE COST LIMITS.
Section 233(a) (29 U.S.C. 3323(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``95 percent'' and
inserting ``85 percent''; and
(2) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) of the remaining amount--
``(A) not more than 10 percent may be used for professional
development for adult educators; and
``(B) not more than 5 percent may be used for planning,
administration (including carrying out the requirements of
section 116), and the activities described in paragraphs (3)
and (5) of section 232.''.
SEC. 310. NATIONAL LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES.
Section 242 (29 U.S.C. 3332) is amended--
(1) by amending paragraph (1) of subsection (b) to read as
follows:
``(1) assistance to help States meet the requirements of
section 116, including assistance to ensure that--
``(A) the outcomes and other data required pursuant to that
section are collected and reported in a timely and accessible
manner; and
``(B) such data are reported consistently across States and
eligible providers and are reviewed for quality and
consistency by the Department of Education;'';
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by striking `English language
learners' and inserting `English learners';
(ii) by striking ``and'' at the end of subparagraph (C);
(iii) in subparagraph (D), by striking the period at the
end and inserting ``; and''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(E) assistance in the dissemination or provision of
information for apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship
programs.''; and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (C)(vii)(I), by striking `language';
(ii) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(iii) by redesignating subparagraph (G) as subparagraph
(L); and
(iv) by inserting after subparagraph (F) the following:
``(G) developing and rigorously evaluating model programs
for the preparation of effective adult educators;
``(H) carrying out initiatives to support the
professionalization of adult education through--
``(i) the creation and implementation of full-time staffing
models; and
``(ii) improved credentials, program quality standards, and
certification and accreditation requirements that States may
adopt on a voluntary basis;
``(I) carrying out initiatives to support the
professionalization of adult education through the creation
and implementation of full-time staffing models;
``(J) providing professional development and technical
assistance to adult educators;
``(K) incorporating the principles of universal design for
learning for any activity carried out under subsection (b);
and''.
SEC. 311. INTEGRATED ENGLISH LITERACY AND CIVICS EDUCATION.
Section 243 (29 U.S.C. 3333) is amended--
(1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) In General.--From funds made available under section
211(a)(2) for each fiscal year, the Secretary shall award
grants to States, from allotments under subsection (b), for
integrated English literacy and civics education, and
workforce preparation activities, workplace adult education
and family literacy activities, apprenticeship and pre-
apprenticeship programs, integrated education and training
activities, work-based learning or other workforce
development services.'';
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
``(i) by striking `English language learners' and inserting
`English learners'; and
``(ii) by striking `, and place such adults in,'; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by inserting before the period the
following: ``, including the identification of in-demand
industries and the placement of adult learners in
unsubsidized employment within these industries''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) State Defined.--In this section, the term `State' has
the meaning given the term in section 3, except that such
term also includes each of the outlying areas (as defined in
section 3).''.
SEC. 312. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO OTHER LAWS.
Section 9215(c) of the Every Student Succeeds Act (Public
Law 114-95) is amended--
(1) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Adult
Education and Literacy Act'' and inserting ``Adult Education
and Family Literacy Act''; and
(2) by striking ``the Adult Education and Literacy Act''
and inserting ``the Adult Education and Family Literacy
Act''.
TITLE IV--GENERAL PROVISIONS
SEC. 401. PROHIBITION OF NATIONAL DATABASE MANAGEMENT.
Section 501(b) (29 U.S.C. 3341) is amended to read as
follows:
``(b) Prohibition of National Database Management.--Nothing
in this Act (or the amendments to other laws made by the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022) shall be
construed to permit the development, management, analysis, or
maintenance by a private entity (whether for-profit or non-
profit) of a national database of personally identifiable
information of individuals receiving services under title I,
or the amendments to other laws made by the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022.''.
SEC. 402. ACCESSIBILITY.
Subtitle A of title V (29 U.S.C. 3341 et seq.) is further
amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 507. ACCESSIBILITY.
``Any uses of digital technology for the purpose of
delivery of service under this Act shall ensure that the
website or electronic communication conform to Level AA of
the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 of the Web
Accessibility Initiative (or any successor guidelines).''.
TITLE V--AMENDMENTS TO THE WAGNER-PEYSER ACT
SEC. 501. INCLUSION OF COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA
ISLANDS AND AMERICAN SAMOA.
The Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.) is amended--
(1) in section 2(5) (29 U.S.C. 49a(5))--
(A) by striking ``the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico'' and
inserting ``Puerto Rico''; and
(B) by inserting ``the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands, American Samoa,'' after ``Guam,'';
(2) in section 5(b)(1) (29 U.S.C. 49d(b)(1)), by inserting
``the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and
American Samoa,'' after ``Guam,'';
(3) in section 6(a) (29 U.S.C. 49e(a))--
(A) by inserting ``, the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, and American Samoa'' after ``except for
Guam'';
(B) by striking ``allot to Guam'' and inserting the
following: ``allot to--
``(1) Guam'';
(C) by striking the period at the end and inserting ``;
and''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(2) the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and
American Samoa an amount which, in relation to the total
amount available for the fiscal year, is equal to the
allotment percentage that Guam received of amounts available
under this Act in fiscal year 1983.''; and
(4) in section 6(b)(1) (29 U.S.C. 49e(b)(1)), in the matter
following subparagraph (B), by inserting ``, the Commonwealth
of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa,'' after
``does not include Guam''.
SEC. 502. MERIT SYSTEM EMPLOYEES.
Section 13 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 491) is
amended by adding at the end of the following;
``(c) The employment services authorized under this Act
shall be performed by public employees under a merit
system.''.
SEC. 503. WORKFORCE AND LABOR MARKET INFORMATION SYSTEM.
(a) Procedures.--Section 15(b)(2)(F)(i) of the Wagner-
Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 491-2(b)(2)(F)(i)) is amended by
inserting before the semicolon at the end the following: ``,
open, linked, and interoperable''.
(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 15(g) of the
Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49l-2(g)) is amended to read as
follows:
``(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section
$74,400,000 for fiscal year 2023, $78,100,000 for fiscal year
2024, $82,000,000 for fiscal year 2025, $86,100,000 for
fiscal year 2026, $90,400,000 for fiscal year 2027, and
$94,900,000 for fiscal year 2028.''.
TITLE VI--AMENDMENTS TO THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973
SEC. 601. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) State Plans.--Paragraph (1) of section 100(b) of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720(b)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(1) In general.--For the purpose of making grants to
States under part B to assist States in meeting the costs of
vocational rehabilitation services provided in accordance
with State plans under section 101, there are authorized to
be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for each of the
fiscal years 2023 through 2028, except that--
``(A) for fiscal year 2023 the amount to be appropriated
shall be not less than $4,052,400,000; and
``(B) for fiscal year 2024 and each of the succeeding
fiscal years, the amount to be appropriated for such a fiscal
year shall not be less than the amount of the appropriation
under this paragraph for the immediately preceding fiscal
year, increased by the percentage change in the Consumer
Price Index determined under subsection (c) for the
immediately preceding fiscal year.''.
(b) Client Assistance Program.--Section 112(h) of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 732(h)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(h) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out
the provisions of this section--
``(1) $15,507,800 for fiscal year 2023;
``(2) $16,283,190 for fiscal year 2024;
``(3) $17,097,350 for fiscal year 2025;
``(4) $17,952,217 for fiscal year 2026;
``(5) $18,849,828 for fiscal year 2027; and
``(6) $19,792,319 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(c) Research and Training.--Section 201 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 761) is amended to read
as follows:
``SEC. 201. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
title $134,357,300 for fiscal year 2023, $141,075,165 for
fiscal year 2024, $148,128,923 for fiscal year 2025,
$155,535,369 for fiscal year 2026, $163,312,138 for fiscal
year 2027, and $171,477,745 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(d) Training.--Section 302(i) of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973 (29 U.S.C. 772(i)) is amended to read as follows:
``(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section
$43,494,001 for fiscal year 2023, $45,668,701 for fiscal year
2024, $47,952,136 for fiscal year 2025, $50,349,743 for
fiscal year 2026, $52,867,230 for fiscal year 2027, and
$55,510,592 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(e) Demonstration and Training Programs.--Section 303(e) of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 773(e)) is amended
to read as follows:
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of
carrying out this section there are authorized to be
appropriated $7,489,900 for fiscal year 2023, $7,864,395 for
fiscal year 2024, $8,257,615 for fiscal year 2025, $8,670,495
for fiscal year 2026, $9,104,020 for fiscal year 2027, and
$9,559,221 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(f) National Council on Disability.--Section 405 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 785) is amended to read
as follows:
``SEC. 405. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
title $4,117,300 for fiscal year 2023, $4,323,165 for fiscal
year 2024, $4,539,323 for fiscal year 2025, $4,766,289 for
fiscal year 2026, $5,004,604 for fiscal year 2027, and
$5,254,834 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(g) Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance
Board.--Section 502(j) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 792(j)) is amended to read as follows:
``(j) There are authorized to be appropriated for the
purpose of carrying out the duties and functions of the
Access Board under this section $10,835,000 for fiscal year
2023, $11,376,750 for fiscal year 2024, $11,945,588 for
fiscal year 2025, $12,542,867 for fiscal year 2026,
$13,170,010 for fiscal year 2027, and $13,828,511 for fiscal
year 2028.''.
(h) Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights.--Section
509(l) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794e(l))
is amended to read as follows:
``(l) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section
$22,808,500 for fiscal year 2023, $23,948,925 for fiscal year
2024, $25,146,371 for fiscal year 2025, $26,403,690 for
fiscal year 2026, $27,723,874 for fiscal year 2027, and
$29,110,068 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(i) Employment Opportunities for Individuals With
Disabilities.--Section 610 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
(29 U.S.C. 29 U.S.C. 795o) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 610. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
title $35,599,300 for fiscal year 2023, $37,379,265 for
fiscal year 2024, $39,248,228 for fiscal year 2025,
$41,210,640 for fiscal year 2026, $43,271,172 for fiscal year
2027, and $45,434,730 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(j) Independent Living Services.--Section 714 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796e-3) is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 714. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
part $29,564,700 for fiscal year 2023, $31,042,935 for fiscal
year 2024, $32,595,082 for fiscal year 2025, $34,224,836 for
fiscal year 2026, $35,936,078 for fiscal year 2027, and
$37,732,882 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(k) Centers for Independent Living.--Section 727 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796f-6) is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 727. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
part $101,191,200 for fiscal year 2023, $106,250,760 for
fiscal year 2024, $111,563,298 for fiscal year 2025,
$117,141,463 for fiscal year 2026, $122,998,536 for fiscal
year 2027, and $129,148,463 for fiscal year 2028.''.
(l) Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who
Are Blind.--Section 753 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 796l) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 753. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
chapter $43,055,100 for fiscal year 2023, $45,207,855 for
fiscal year 2024, $47,468,248 for fiscal year 2025,
$49,841,660 for fiscal year 2026, $52,333,743 for fiscal year
2027, and $54,950,430 for fiscal year 2028.''.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, as amended, shall be debatable for
1 hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority
member of the Committee on Education and Labor or their respective
designees.
The gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott) and the gentlewoman from
North Carolina (Ms. Foxx) each will control 30 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott).
General Leave
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that
all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their
remarks and insert extraneous material on H.R. 7309, the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from Virginia?
There was no objection.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
may consume.
Madam Speaker, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, or WIOA,
is the backbone of our Nation's workforce development system. Each
year, WIOA programs help working people across the country get the
skills they need to find better-paying careers and help employers
access a dedicated and skilled workforce.
Unfortunately, our investment in workforce development has fallen
significantly over time. While the U.S. labor force has grown
approximately 50 percent over the last four decades, Federal investment
in workforce development has fallen by two-thirds when adjusted for
inflation. Federal investment in workforce development has fallen by
two-thirds.
This underinvestment hurts workers, it hurts businesses, and it hurts
our economy's competitive edge. Other developed countries spend between
one-half of 1 percent to 1 full percent of their gross domestic product
on workforce development. We spend only one-tenth of 1 percent.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 addresses this
chronic underinvestment so that we can finally meet the needs of
workers and businesses, fill job openings with qualified workers,
reduce supply chain shortages, and lower costs for families.
By investing approximately $80 billion over the next 6 years, this
legislation would more than double the number of people receiving
training services in fiscal year 2023 and allow us to train 1 million
workers per year by 2028.
The legislation modernizes WIOA to help expand work opportunities for
disconnected youth. It makes critical reforms to improve Job Corps, and
it expands sector-based training so that we can train for entire
sectors such as electric cars, trucking, and nurses. It strengthens
community colleges' capacity to help workers succeed in in-demand
industries. It helps justice-involved individuals re-enter the labor
force and obtain sustainable career paths.
Madam Speaker, if we want to keep our global competitive edge, if we
want to lower costs, and if we want to accelerate our economic
recovery, then we must pass the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act of 2022.
This legislation is the product of a largely bipartisan, year-long
effort, including a bipartisan roundtable and three bipartisan hearings
in our committee. While many of my counterparts across the aisle have
voiced opposition to the size of the investments in the bill, I remain
hopeful that all of my colleagues will join me in voting to stand with
America's workers.
Madam Speaker, I thank the chair of the Higher Education and
Workforce Investment Subcommittee, Ms. Wilson, for her work on this
critical priority, and I urge support of the legislation.
Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Madam Speaker, Republicans are committed to preparing America's
workforce for the 21st century. This reauthorization of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act, WIOA, will not help our country live up
to its potential. In fact, this reauthorization moves our workplace
development system in the wrong direction.
Our labor market is not facing a lack of job openings or a lack of
workers. Currently there are 11.3 million open jobs, but unfortunately
there are too few Americans with the skills needed to fill them
effectively. That is why we need a robust workforce development system
that will prepare workers for in-demand skills.
During the Education and Labor Committee markup of H.R. 7309,
Republicans offered an amendment that would empower employers to
respond to local economic needs; streamline the workforce development
system by increasing local collaboration and putting program
qualification decisions at the State and local level; strengthen
outcomes and accountability by adding evidence-based practices,
maintaining common performance-based metrics, funding programs with a
track record of success, and improving transparency measures; and
reduce bureaucracy by requiring the Department of Labor to address
regulatory bottlenecks.
{time} 1430
Democrats blocked all those commonsense proposals.
Republicans also pushed to allocate more funds for upskilling workers
and support robust postsecondary education programs that focus on in-
demand skills. Instead of embracing innovative models, Democrats rely
on an 85-year-old Federal apprenticeship model from the Great
Depression. This model has not been working and throwing more money at
it won't change that.
Our Nation's job creators are in a far better position to help run
workforce development programs, but this bill puts Washington in the
driver's seat. Instead of putting workers first, this legislation makes
bureaucrats and labor unions the priority.
For example, provisions in this bill increase the size of State and
local governing boards and dilute employer input to increase the power
of labor unions. Too often, labor unions have the interests of their
union bosses in mind instead of the interests of workers. Giving big
labor an outsized role on these boards will render these programs less
responsive to industry needs.
H.R. 7309 also promotes progressive gender ideology and critical race
theory by requiring States to develop and publish State equity reports
regarding performance outcomes on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation,
and gender identity. Leave it to the left to destroy equality in
pursuit of equity, a word one author aptly described as ``dispensing
unequal treatment in order to achieve equal outcomes.'' Taking the
focus of our job programs off upskilling workers and putting it onto a
woke agenda will do a disservice to all our jobseekers.
This legislation also increases cumbersome administrative hurdles for
employers. If we want employers to participate in these programs, we
need a system that has fewer barriers and is easier to navigate. This
process should be streamlined instead of making it more complex.
Instead of making this program more efficient, provisions in this
reauthorization will end up costing taxpayers more. H.R. 7309 will
require Job Corps contractors to comply with onerous local prevailing
wage requirements. This will significantly increase the cost of all Job
Corps projects without improving the program's effectiveness.
On top of that, the bill weakens expectations for Job Corps' success.
Job Corps is a program that has been fraught with negative issues for
decades. This is a program in which 30 different government reports and
audits have raised concerns over its safety and security. People have
literally been killed in this program, and the left wants to make it
less accountable. Other provisions in the bill water down performance
metrics, reducing the ability of Congress to measure the success of
workforce development programs.
More accountability and measurable outcomes are clearly necessary.
According to a 2018 investigation by the Tampa Bay Times, some local
workforce boards had significantly misreported their outcomes and took
credit for finding thousands of jobs for people who never even
participated in the program.
Other data demonstrate that these programs are not always effective,
even when being operated honestly. Less than one-quarter of young
enrollees and barely one-third of adults exited programs with
occupations related to the workforce development program in which they
were enrolled. Clearly, something isn't working. Let me repeat: Fewer
than 25 percent of young enrollees and only 30 percent of adults came
out of the programs into jobs related to the workforce development
program in which they were enrolled.
If we hope to enhance our Nation's economic competitiveness and
upskill workers for in-demand jobs, we must create a workforce
development system that actually works. This bill utterly fails to do
that. The American people deserve so much better.
Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the
gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Bonamici), the chair of the Subcommittee
on Civil Rights and Human Services.
Ms. BONAMICI. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Scott for yielding and
for his leadership.
Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Workforce Innovation
and Opportunity Act of 2022. This important legislation improves the
existing statute in several critical ways.
First, this legislation formally authorizes sector partnerships. I
have witnessed the significant benefit of sector partnerships. One
persuasive example in northwest Oregon is the Oregon Manufacturing
Innovation Center, OMIC, which develops and applies advanced metals
manufacturing technologies in their R&D center, while educating an
advanced manufacturing workforce in their training center run by
Portland Community College. OMIC is an outstanding example of how
sector partnerships between industry, higher education, and government
can create new R&D outcomes, prepare workers, and fuel local economies.
Second, this legislation will improve access to supportive services
like access to tools, work attire, transportation, childcare, and
mentorship, which are crucial to helping workers stay in their training
and in the workplace and to thrive.
Third, this legislation will define and formally authorize funding
for pre-apprenticeship programs. In Oregon, we have tremendous
programs, successful programs, like Oregon Tradeswomen, that prepare
women for careers and trades through pre-apprenticeships. Despite the
success of this program and others, funding has been extremely low.
This legislation will help expand these life-changing programs and set
participants up for success in apprenticeships and beyond. These are
life-changing.
Importantly, this legislation will make Job Corps more inclusive by
requiring Job Corps center operators to implement a tiered disciplinary
system instead of adhering to a zero-tolerance drug policy. It would
expand the definition of ``individuals with barriers to employment'' to
include historically disadvantaged communities. These changes will
modernize Job Corps in important ways, and it will better meet the
needs of all communities.
I urge my colleagues to support this Workforce Innovation Opportunity
Act reauthorization to help close the skills gap and to address the
needs of working Americans, and I thank Chairman Scott for his
leadership in bringing this important bill to the floor.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from
Wisconsin (Mr. Grothman).
Mr. GROTHMAN. Madam Speaker, I will make some comments on the
reauthorization bill. This is one of these big bills that is 268 pages.
I don't have time to go through all of the problems with the bill, but
I am just going to touch on some highlights, or low lights.
In this area of high inflation, with a bill like this, the first
thing I look at is the cost. The cost of this bill--right now, we are
spending about $9.9 billion on this topic. Over the next 6 years, they
expect it to increase to $16.2 billion. You are looking at a 63 percent
increase in spending on this area at a time where we really don't have
any money to increase anything. So I want the American public to
understand there is a big spending increase here.
Secondly, I will talk about a very important population to me, though
a population that is not talked about enough, and that is the fact that
we are continuing to allow a provision in law which I think is damaging
to people born with different abilities. Right now, they are not able
to work at work centers, which is one of these places that sometimes
pays under minimum wage, until they are at least 24 years old. We would
never tell anybody of other abilities that you are not allowed to work
until you are age 24. But by making it--I won't say impossible, but
very difficult to work at a work center until age 24, I think you stunt
the people's growth.
I was really hoping we would use this opportunity to allow people
with different abilities to begin to work at 18 or 19 years old.
Anybody who tours these work centers cannot help but be touched by how
proud these folks are to work there. I wish they could work there at
age 18 instead of 24.
The next thing I will point out is a clear feature of this bill is to
dramatically expand Job Corps; in other words, government jobs that are
a steppingstone, I guess, if you can't find another job. There has
never been a time, I think, in American history in which they are
looking for more people to work. So as I go around my district, be it
the service industry, agriculture, light manufacturing, they are
begging for employees. What is Congress going to do? They are going to
go in there and say, no, we are not going to let you work at the local
restaurant; we are going to have you work for Job Corps. I think that
is a mistake.
The fourth thing I will point out is this obsession with racial
biases and gender identity. There is a bill right now that the majority
party has that is called the LGBT Data Inclusion Act, in which they
expect everybody, I guess, to tell their employer what their sexual
preferences are. I have been doing this job in politics for a long
time. I have never had a discussion about sexual preferences with any
of my employees. I would feel embarrassed to ask them. But this bill
clearly implies a world in which when you apply for a job, let's talk
about our sexual identity.
The fifth thing I point out is we have a big problem in this country
at our southern border. In this bill, in committee, we tried to have E-
Verify to apply to all of these jobs; in other words, to make sure that
if we are going to have such a program, at least it is American
citizens who take advantage of the program. That amendment was shot
down in committee.
What does that tell me? It tells me that one more time, along with
free medical care, along with Pell grants, the majority party wants to
help out people who are coming here who shouldn't be here. E-Verify
really should have been part of the bill. I don't think the American
public wants another government program designed, at least in part, to
benefit people who are here illegally.
Those are some of the greatest hits of the bill.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Mrvan), a distinguished member of the
Committee on Education and Labor.
Mr. MRVAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022.
I have long believed that there is a role for public servants to
create the conditions that help our fellow citizens obtain a good-
paying job. With a good-paying job, most folks have the time and the
resources to take care of themselves, their families, and address the
difficulties that sometimes arise in life.
I appreciate that this legislation promotes the value of our
workforce and focuses on the improvements to apprenticeship programs,
digital literacy programs, and summer job programs for our youth.
In my experience for 15 years as someone who helped upskill people, I
worked very closely with workforce development in order to find jobs
for people who are sitting across the table from me trying to make ends
meet. This investment gives them hope and promise. It also absolutely
addresses what all employers and all small businesses are looking for:
a ready, skilled workforce in order to be able to get into the market
quickly.
When it comes to labor unions, I emphasize the investment in our
labor unions. What they provide for my community, in Indiana's First
District, is livable wages, healthcare benefits that are affordable,
safer workplaces, and secure retirement.
When it comes to the prevailing wage, that prevailing wage sets a
wage that allows for all programs and all development in my district.
That is something that is sacred that allows us to be competitive, to
have a safe workplace, and allows us to provide for families.
Northwest Indiana is home to such a diverse and talented workforce,
and I urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation so that
communities and organizations throughout our Nation have the resources
to ensure that everyone has the opportunity and tools to thrive in our
economy.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from
Arkansas (Mr. Hill).
Mr. HILL. Madam Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Foxx for her work and
leadership on these important issues and for visiting my home State of
Arkansas many times in support of a better workforce.
Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 7309 due to its
lack of innovation and lack of opportunity that I think is embedded in
this legislation.
It is a shame we are on the floor, yet again, debating a bill that
the Democratic majority crafted to please unions and bolster them at
the expense of American workers, small businesses, and nonunion
entities.
{time} 1445
Most employers want to provide work-based upskilling, but they are
already hesitant to apply for Federal funds. This bill will make that
process even more complex and burdensome.
In my home State of Arkansas, we are a right-to-work State. This bill
is harmful to my home State.
There are many bad policies embedded in the bill that will harm the
American workforce. This bill will expand Federal control over
workforce standards, limiting the rights of jobseekers. It will do this
while mandating that union representation on State and local workforce
development boards be expanded by 10 percent. Most importantly, this
bill will fail to expand opportunity access for jobseekers.
It is clear that this bill was written to favor unions, not the full
and diverse American workforce. This bill is deeply flawed and another
example of the Democratic majority being out of touch with working
Americans.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from New York (Mr. Espaillat), a distinguished member of the
Committee on Education and Labor.
Mr. ESPAILLAT. Madam Speaker, after more than 2 years of instability
during the pandemic, Congress must ensure that all Americans--all
Americans--have resources to access the job market, especially those
who are typically left behind.
Each year, 600,000 individuals are released from incarceration, and
nearly half of them have repeat contact with the criminal justice
system within a year. There is a critical need to invest in reentry
programs. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 does
just that by guaranteeing the Department of Labor's Reentry Employment
Opportunities program is authorized at $500 billion by 2028.
This investment will not only expand reentry employment assistance
for adults, but also prevent in-school youth from dropping out of
school, increase the employment rate of out-of-school youth, and reduce
the involvement of youth in crime and violence.
Programs carried out through the reentry employment grant program
recognize that youth can and will lead healthy and constructive lives.
These resources can mean the difference between a revolving door of
prison time or a life full of economic opportunities.
For those reasons, Madam Speaker, and all the other significant
provisions in this bill, such as building community college capacity
and strengthening industry and sector partnership, I urge all of my
colleagues to support the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of
2022.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Madam Speaker, in FY 2021, taxpayers spent about $1.8 billion on
adult, dislocated worker, and youth activities under title I of WIOA.
According to the Department of Labor, only $537 million, or less than
30 percent of that money, went toward ``training services.''
Most people assume that our Nation's workforce development system is
primarily focused on providing workers the skills they need to be
successful in the modern economy. Unfortunately, that is not accurate.
Not surprisingly, with so little focus on actual skills development,
the outcomes for these programs are poor. Among youth participants,
less than one-quarter exited the program with employment in an
occupation related to the services they received from the system. Among
adults and dislocated workers, a little more than one-third exited with
employment related to their program.
Republicans would like to address these shortcomings and believe this
reauthorization presents an opportunity to do that. The Republican
proposal we offered during committee, and to the Rules Committee,
increases the percentage of funding going toward skills development. We
proposed reforms to bring more employers to the table and engage more
employers in the workforce system.
Unfortunately, the Democrats' bill rejects those proposals and,
instead, would actually make these problems worse. As a result of
provisions in H.R. 7309, an even smaller portion of WIOA funding will
be directed toward skills development.
The bill will also dilute employers' involvement in State and local
governance of the workforce system, which is the opposite of what we
should be doing.
Madam Speaker, this bill is a missed opportunity. I urge my
colleagues to oppose the base bill so we can get back to work and truly
reform this program to get more workers the skills they need to fill
the economy's open jobs.
Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Courtney), a distinguished member of
the Committee on Education and Labor.
Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which will modernize
America's job training program at precisely the time that we need it
the most.
Today in America, for every one unemployed person, there are two job
openings. Again, I don't care what sector you are talking about,
whether it is manufacturing, whether it is healthcare, whether it is
information technology, whether you are from a red State or a blue
State, the hue and cry from employers who are desperate to find workers
is one of the most powerful challenges that we face in this economy. It
is a good challenge. It is about connecting people to opportunities and
to jobs or careers, which this bill is precisely designed to do.
Again, if you want to talk about the problems that we are having with
inflation and gas prices, well, listen to the oil and gas industry.
They are 100,000 workers short today, so they cannot increase supply
because they don't have the workforce to do the drilling that is
necessary.
In my district, where I have Electric Boat's shipyard, which has used
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act in the past, there are 725
job openings this morning in the metal trades, in design and
engineering work. The existing Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act, which, again, uses the collaboration of employers and unions to
design a curriculum that matches the work that happens in that
shipyard, in the metal trades and other areas, has been extremely
successful. They graduated their 2,000th graduate, who immediately was
employed and is working in that shipyard. Again, that is going to be a
career for that individual to support themselves and their family.
The challenge we have before us is we need to size up that
preapprenticeship critical link that this program addresses by passing
this legislation.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute
to the gentleman from Connecticut.
Mr. COURTNEY. If you read the bill, it doubles the number of slots
that workforce boards like mine in eastern Connecticut, and the 500
workforce boards that exist around the country will again then be able
to address that critical need that exists right now today. It does it
in a way that has been on the books since the Clinton administration
passed the Workforce Investment Act back in the 1990s.
Again, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle were part of the
bill signing with President Obama in 2014 when we authorized it the
last time. This bill is very much aligned with the structure, but it
enlarges it, and it reaches out to underserved populations and other
individuals who can take advantage of and succeed with the tools that
this bill will provide.
Again, now is the time. We need to vote on this measure today. We
need to get it through the Senate, and our economy will benefit. Our
Nation will benefit. Vote in favor of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, could you advise as to how much
time is remaining on both sides?
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from Virginia has 18 minutes
remaining. The gentlewoman from North Carolina has 15\3/4\ minutes
remaining.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the
gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Levin), a distinguished member of the
Committee on Education and Labor.
Mr. LEVIN of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022.
As Michigan's former chief workforce officer, I know firsthand how
vital job training is to help communities transform economic challenges
into opportunities for all.
About 15 years ago, during the crisis in the auto industry, and then
during the Great Recession, we created what, at the time, was the
largest job training program of any State, called No Worker Left
Behind. We put 162,000 un- and underemployed Michiganians back to
school to study for in-demand jobs, certificates, degrees, whatever
their local workforce board said was needed.
Lord knows, as Mr. Courtney said, at this moment, when employers are
crying out for trained workers to fill positions, we need to pass this
bill.
Let me touch on four highlights of the legislation.
First, it corrects years of underfunding by authorizing $74 billion
over the next 6 years.
Second, it gives greater voice to workers by increasing
representation of labor organizations on State and local workforce
boards.
Third, it makes permanent and allocates $2.25 billion over 6 years
for the Labor Department's Reentry Employment Opportunities program so
that returning citizens can both obtain and sustain employment. We are
seeing employers go into prisons in innovative ways and help people
have opportunities for hope in their life, which is the surest way to
cut recidivism.
Fourth, it authorizes public libraries to serve as affiliated one-
stop sites, a priority I pushed to include in the legislation. Madam
Speaker, I am always about those public libraries.
Effective workforce training is a crucial tool to spur job creation,
fight long-term unemployment, and reduce inequality. By increasing
funding and giving workers of all backgrounds a stronger voice, this
proposal strengthens our workforce development system.
Madam Speaker, I congratulate Chairman Scott on his leadership in
shepherding this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to vote for the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Cohen).
Mr. COHEN. Madam Speaker, this is just one of the things that the
Caucus and the Congress have been doing to help make the economy
improve and help people deal with problems that COVID has caused us,
supply chain and all, which has slowed down the opportunity to get
products, and also causes inflation, but having the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act to get people training, get them career
services, get skills to perform jobs is so important.
I think it was Mr. Courtney who mentioned how many more openings we
have than people to fill the jobs right now. I went to Walgreens the
other day and thought I got there early to get the drive-in, and they
said: ``We don't have enough employees to have the drive-in open this
morning.''
Everywhere you go, there is need for work, so we need to train people
so they can fill the jobs that are made available.
I am proud to vote for this bill, reauthorizing the program, which,
unfortunately, expired in 2020. This would put us back on track and
invest $78 billion over 6 years and retrain millions of workers per
year by 2028.
Memphis is a proud working-class city, and we must prepare our
workforce and our community for the 21st century and for the jobs right
now. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act will ensure that
critical resources are provided for essential institutions like our
Benjamin L. Hooks Job Corps Center in Whitehaven.
This transformational work should involve all of our local leaders
and resources to ensure our programs and solutions are relevant and
useful to our community. I offered an amendment, which was accepted,
and I appreciate that. It will help ensure the subject matter experts
in local agencies, local educators, and community leaders can be
included as part of the workforce development boards. We look out for
each other in Memphis, and we want to see us move forward in the 21st
century.
Madam Speaker, I encourage everybody to vote for this bill.
{time} 1500
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Cartwright).
Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding,
and I appreciate the opportunity to speak about my critical amendment
to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
As a Nation, what we want to do is help our young working population
find jobs and meet their career potential. That is exactly what
YouthBuild has done for the last 40 years.
The YouthBuild program funds workforce training initiatives focused
on 16- to 24-year-old individuals without a high school diploma. These
young adults come from challenging backgrounds and they need skills and
resources to successfully participate in the domestic labor market, and
YouthBuild gives them just that opportunity.
However, there is always room for improvement--and that is why we
have this amendment--especially when it comes to ensuring that young
adults with disabilities are best positioned to successfully enter the
workforce. Currently, lack of affordable and accessible transportation
creates significant barriers for disabled people that want to work.
Madam Speaker, 13.4 million Americans have disabilities which limit
their ability to travel, including traveling to the workplace. We have
to ensure that transportation to and from the workplace is available
for disabled youth transitioning into the workforce.
My amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act allows
disabled YouthBuild participants to use funds for transportation. With
this amendment, we can remove a massive obstacle from the path of these
disabled young adults. We can make going to work one step easier so
they can earn a living and support their families. No American should
be deprived of a fair chance to become and remain productive members of
our American society.
Madam Speaker, I urge my fellow Members to support my amendment and
allow designated YouthBuild funding to be used for work-related
transportation.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from
Florida (Mr. Rutherford).
Mr. RUTHERFORD. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding.
Madam Speaker, at the appropriate time, I will offer an amendment to
H.R. 7309, which will increase skills development for individuals
seeking careers in law enforcement, especially in these States that we
have seen increasing violent crime.
My amendment would modify the list of employment and workforce
development activities that States must carry out with State set-aside
funding under the Adult and Dislocated Worker Programs.
This amendment requires that States that have experienced an increase
in violent crime over the previous year use those State set-aside funds
to provide training services for individuals seeking a career in law
enforcement. Those funds must also support training services for law
enforcement involved in border protection in relevant States.
After 2 years of my colleagues across the aisle calling to defund the
police, we are seeing cities in America in crisis. Police agency
budgets have been slashed, making it impossible to hire, equip, and
train officers. These calls have demoralized and delegitimized
officers, causing high attrition rates and making it nearly impossible
to hire new officers.
Criminals have noticed, and violent crime is rising because of it.
Just look at the news any night. It has made the already dangerous job
of law enforcement even more dangerous and unsafe. And in 2021, an
officer was attacked and killed every five days in America.
Madam Speaker, all our communities are less safe because of it. This
Police Week, instead of focusing on supporting law enforcement's hiring
and retention and making our communities safer, my colleagues are
forcing a partisan, flawed approach to labor force development. But my
amendment will help build the workforce that we really need to focus
on, and that is peace officers.
At a time when law enforcement retirements are up 45 percent
nationwide, and some cities still can't fill up to 17 percent of their
open positions, we desperately need to invest in retraining law
enforcement officers.
As a former law enforcement officer myself, I know firsthand the
importance of developing a strong pipeline of law enforcement cadets.
We are far from that now so we must direct our Federal workforce
investments to career fields that directly and positively impact the
safety of our communities across America.
If we adopt the motion to recommit, we will instruct the Committee on
Education and Labor to consider my amendment to invest in the next
generation of our law enforcement officers.
Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to insert the text of my
amendment in the Record immediately prior to the vote on the motion to
recommit.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentlewoman from Connecticut (Mrs. Hayes), a distinguished member of
the Committee on Education and Labor.
Mrs. HAYES. Madam Speaker, I rise to support the passage of this
bill, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, a historic, $78
billion investment, which will provide training for 1 million workers
per year by 2028. This package includes my bill, the YouthBuild for the
Future Act, which would invest $1 billion into YouthBuild over 6 years.
YouthBuild is a crucial program that is specifically built to help
young people who have not completed their high school degree train for
a high-wage, stable career. But most importantly, it helps those young
people regain their confidence and their ability to be self-sufficient
and contribute to our communities.
My bill makes critical investments to the program, such as reserving
grant funds for rural areas, extending the period of follow-up services
to 2 years, and allowing YouthBuild to fund meals for participants.
These improvements will expand opportunity for young adults and
employers who are clamoring to fill skilled positions that too often
remain vacant.
These are meaningful, life-changing investments for Americans
searching for long-term, high-wage employment. I know that these
programs work because the one in my district and my hometown has young
kids building homes.
Madam Speaker, as an original cosponsor of this reauthorization, I am
proud to support passage, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Madam Speaker, by reversing some of the key reforms made in the
bipartisan 2014 WIOA reauthorization, H.R. 7309 takes our workforce
system backwards. It does this by imposing more bureaucratic hurdles to
job creators and reducing program accountability. It is time to stop
being so frivolous with taxpayer dollars.
This bill proposes pouring more money into an already expensive
program. In FY 2021, taxpayers spent $1.8 billion on programs under
title 1 of WIOA alone. This is too much money, especially as inflation
is still at a 41-year high.
The House of Representatives has been entrusted with the power of the
purse. It is time we took this responsibility more seriously. The
Nation deserves a workforce system that will actually prepare Americans
for in-demand jobs. Unfortunately, this bill fails to protect taxpayers
at a time of rampant inflation, pushes a radical progressive agenda,
expands Federal control over the workforce, and embraces that failed
status quo rather than pursuing opportunities for innovation.
Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill, and I yield
back the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of
my time.
Madam Speaker, the evidence is clear that our economy has made
meaningful progress toward recovering from the pandemic. Thanks to the
efforts of Congress and the Biden-Harris administration, our economy
has added a record 8.3 million jobs since the start of 2021, and the
unemployment rate has fallen to 3.6 percent.
Despite this progress, we know that job openings currently exceed job
applicants and employers are clamoring for skilled workers. In fact,
research suggests that workers are leaving their job to seek better
career opportunities in record numbers. This bill takes a critical step
forward to empower workers to fill those competitive job positions and,
in turn, helps reduce supply chain shortages, lower costs for families,
increase their incomes, and improve our business competitiveness.
Madam Speaker, investing in workforce development has historically
been a priority for both Democrats and Republicans. That is why our
committee conducted an extended bipartisan process to put this
legislation together, despite the opposition we have heard from our
colleagues today.
As our economy rebounds from the pandemic, we should all agree that
we must take this opportunity to expand access to high-quality job
training opportunities for America's workers.
I thank my colleague again, Ms. Wilson, for her leadership in
bringing this critical legislation to the floor, and I urge my
colleagues to vote in favor of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act of 2022.
Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. SABLAN. Madam Speaker, H.R. 7309, the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act of 2022, makes significant improvements to WIOA, the
law that is the backbone of our nation's workforce development system.
Since 2014, WIOA has provided training and career services to help
working people across the country get the skills they need and help
employers secure a qualified workforce.
H.R. 7309 also includes legislation I authored that extends three
crucial workforce development programs to the Marianas: the Wagner-
Peyser grant, the Integrated English Literacy and Civic Education
grant, and the Job Corps program. Under my Employment Services and Jobs
Parity Act, the annual $300,000 Wagner-Peyser grant would provide skill
assessment, career guidance, and referrals to training to job seekers
in the Marianas. The legislation additionally allows the Commonwealth
government to apply for Employment Service formula grants, at the same
percentage share as Guam, to set up One-Stop Career Centers that can
help workers find jobs and employers find workers. Under my Integrated
English Literacy and Civic Education Nationwide Act, English language
learners would acquire the proficiency needed to obtain employment. And
under my Job Corps Nationwide Act, Job Corps centers can be established
in all insular areas. This means our young people would not have to
leave the Marianas to get necessary training and local business would
benefit from a skilled workforce connected to our community and
committed to remaining. All my bills support the overall goal of H.R.
7309: to help job seekers nationwide access quality employment,
education training, and support services.
By reauthorizing and strengthening WIOA's programs, H.R. 7309 will
help Americans get back to work. In addition to my provisions, the
legislation expands summer and year-round jobs programs for youth,
codifies partnerships between employers and community colleges, and
provides funding for innovative approaches to workforce development.
At a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has diminished the resources
necessary to train new workers, the improvements to WIOA under H.R.
7309 will continue to develop the workforce pipeline and expand access
to services for the people who need them the most.
I urge my colleagues to support the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act of 2022.
Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, H.R. 7309 is truly transformational
legislation that will have a profound impact on workforce development
and job skills training for decades to come. By virtue of this
legislation, the American economy will be well positioned for success
in emerging industries as well as traditional jobs in an increasingly
competitive global landscape.
With the new initiatives and support for state and local efforts that
this bill provides, more institutions will be able to provide education
and job training services; a wider range of curricula will be available
that enables learners to become job-ready; and more Americans will be
equipped with skills that will jump-start long-term careers.
Very importantly, this bill will extend the reach of job skills
training and employment preparation to all corners of the country and
all segments of society. It does so by creating vital national programs
and instituting accountability systems that will monitor program
operations and success.
This legislation also ensures that students will have access to
training through online digital platforms. Use of e-learning opens the
doors for education even where cultural barriers and long distances
from brick-and-mortar institutes often had the effect of excluding many
Americans.
As enthusiastic as I am about this legislation and its comprehensive
approach toward elevating our country's workforce preparation
infrastructure, there are additional elements that I believed were
necessary. We must ensure that diversity, inclusion, and equity are
always cornerstones of our economy and society; and ensure that this
bill will prepare all demographic groups with our workforce for success
in key industries that are vital to our nation's future economy.
As a result, I submitted amendments to the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act, and I am delighted that the Rules Committee agreed
that these were important additions to H.R. 7309. I would like to share
a few thoughts with my colleagues and the American people about my two
amendments which are being considered by the House of Representatives
today.
My first amendment stems from my fervent and long-held belief that
women and girls should have a level playing field for any type of
study, job, or career. Throughout my life, I have fought for women and
girls to have equal opportunity to learn in classrooms, excel in
workplaces, and achieve in life.
Where women faced walls, I sought to tear down the walls or lean a
ladder against them to climb over. When girls were being discouraged
from educational or career pursuits, I set out to change mindsets. When
females faced biases or glass ceilings that restrained success, I
organized and marched to level the playing field.
As a result, my first amendment would ensure that women and girls are
encouraged to enroll for STEM education, that is, the study of science,
technology, engineering, and math. These subjects are the key to
success in a vast range of industries and professions, especially in
this advanced era in which information and technology propels most
innovations and program. Women and girls must be welcomed for a seat at
those tables, which will dramatically impact gender equality over time.
In addition to being encouraged to enroll, I believe girls and women
should receive priority for both the study of these fields and the jobs
and careers that await them, and that support services should be
provided to them along the way to help ensure their success. The days
of male-dominated stem-based industries must be relegated to history
books, as that bias has no place in modern America.
Because of entrenched, long-standing discrimination against women and
girls, not only do we need equality; we also need equity. In other
words, more must be done to right the wrongs of the past, prioritize
participation by women and girls, and fast-track us for promotions,
advancement, and success.
My second amendment is rooted in similar concerns. It insists that
this legislation help all Americans, specifically communities of color
that historically did not benefit equally from workforce development
and job skills training programs. My amendment would ensure that HBCUs
and other minority-serving educational institutions are eligible and
encouraged to apply for maximal benefits under H.R. 7309's programs.
Moreover, beyond just equality, the job training and workforce
development programs at these institutions should be given priority in
order to promote equity for students whose ancestors were denied that
right. H.R. 7309 can be the impetus for a fresh start.
By including and prioritizing HBCUs and other minority-serving
institutions, the institutionalized barriers which impeded generational
prosperity will be eroded, even if only incrementally and over many
years. By leveling the playing field, the imbalance of generational
wealth will also be rectified.
Madam Speaker, I believe these two amendments are central to the
purpose of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and will
strengthen the bill both legislatively and in practice across the
country. Diversity and inclusion must always be a priority particularly
in future high-growth industries that are essential to our nation's
long-term economic growth, success, and and job creation strategy.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time for debate has expired.
Each further amendment printed in part C of House Report 117-325 not
earlier considered as part of amendments en bloc pursuant to section 4
of House Resolution 1119, shall be considered only in the order printed
in the report, may be offered only by a Member designated in the
report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for the time
specified in the report equally divided and controlled by the proponent
and an opponent, may be withdrawn by the proponent at any time before
the question is put thereon, shall not be subject to amendment, and
shall not be subject to a demand for division of the question.
It shall be in order at any time after debate for the chair of the
Committee on Education and Labor or his designee to offer amendments en
bloc consisting of further amendments printed in part C of House Report
117-325, not earlier disposed of.
Amendments en bloc shall be considered as read, shall be debatable
for 20 minutes equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking
minority member of the Committee on Education and Labor or their
respective designees, shall not be subject to amendment, and shall not
be subject to a demand for division of the question.
Amendments En Bloc No. 1 Offered by Mr. Scott of Virginia
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, pursuant to section 4 of House
Resolution 1119, I rise to offer amendments en bloc No. 1.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Clerk will designate the amendments en
bloc.
Amendments en bloc No. 1 consisting of amendment Nos. 1, 4, 8, 12,
13, 21, 25, 26, 30, 32, and 36, printed in part C of House Report 117-
325, offered by Mr. Scott of Virginia:
Amendment No. 1 Offered by Mrs. Bice of Oklahoma
At the end of chapter 2 of subtitle B of title II, insert
the following (and conform the table of contents
accordingly):
SEC. 243. YOUTH WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS FOR HIGH-
DEMAND OCCUPATIONS.
Section 129(b)(2) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3164(b)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (D)(v), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in subparagraph (E), by striking the period and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by inserting at the end the following:
``(F) developing partnerships between educational
institutions (including area career and technical education
schools and institutions of higher education) and employers
to create or improve workforce development programs to
address the identified education and skill needs of the
workforce and the employment needs of employers in the
regions of the State, as determined based on the most recent
analysis conducted under subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section
102(b)(1).''.
At the end of chapter 3 of subtitle B of title II, insert
the following (and conform the table of contents
accordingly):
SEC. 235. ADULT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS FOR HIGH-
DEMAND OCCUPATIONS.
(a) Statewide Adult Workforce Development Programs for
High-demand Occupations.--Section 134(a)(3)(A) of such Act
(29 U.S.C. 3174(a)(3)(A)) is amended--
(1) in clause (xiii), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in clause (xiv), by striking the period and inserting
``; and''; and
(3) by inserting at the end the following:
``(xv) developing partnerships between educational
institutions (including area career and technical education
schools and institutions of higher education) and employers
to create or improve workforce development programs to
address the identified education and skill needs of the
workforce and the employment needs of employers in the
regions of the State, as determined based on the most recent
analysis conducted under subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section
102(b)(1).''.
(b) Local Adult Workforce Development Programs for High-
demand Occupations.--Section 134(d)(1)(A) of such Act (29
U.S.C. 3174(d)(1)(A)) is amended--
(1) in clause (xi), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in clause (xii), by striking the period and inserting
``; and''; and
(3) by inserting at the end the following:
``(xiii) the development of partnerships between
educational institutions (including area career and technical
education schools and institutions of higher education) and
employers to create or improve workforce development programs
to address the identified education and skill needs of the
workforce and the employment needs of employers in the
region, as determined based on the most recent analysis
conducted by the local board under section 107(d)(2).''.
Amendment No. 4 Offered by Mr. Bowman of New York
Page 52, line 2, after ``with'' insert ``alignment,
coordination, and continuity between K-12 education
providers, and''.
Amendment No. 8 Offered by Mr. Case of Hawaii
Add at the end the following:
``TITLE VII--REPORT ON CHALLENGES OF UNEMPLOYED AND LOW-INCOME AMERICAN
INDIANS, ALASKA NATIVES, AND NATIVE HAWAIIANS IN LABOR MARKET
``SEC. 701 REPORT ON CHALLENGES OF UNEMPLOYED AND LOW-INCOME
AMERICAN INDIANS, ALASKA NATIVES, AND NATIVE
HAWAIIANS IN LABOR MARKET.
`` Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment
of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States
shall submit to Congress a report that--
``(1) reviews the unique challenges that unemployed and
low-income American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native
Hawaiians face in the labor market; and
``(2) provides recommendations for improving low-income
American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians access
to Federal employment and training services.''.
Amendment No. 12 Offered by Mr. Gottheimer of New Jersey
Page 128, line 11, strike ``and''.
Page 128, line 14, strike the period and insert ``; and''.
Page 128, after line 14, insert the following:
(V) veterans.
Amendment No. 13 Offered by Mr. Harder of California
Page 98, line 5, strike ``and''.
Page 98, line 8, strike the period and insert ``; and''.
Page 98, after line 8, insert the following:
``(vi) providing workforce readiness opportunities,
supportive services, adult mentoring, financial literacy,
activities to develop soft skills, or career exposure
activities.
Page 101, line 4, strike ``and''.
Page 101, strike line 7 and inserting ``resources; and''.
Page 101, after line 7, insert the following:
``(E) identify successful community-based models for youth
workforce development and encourage integration with local
area activities.''.
Page 101, after line 18, insert the following:
(A) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by inserting ``, including
through a youth-serving national or regional intermediary
with experience developing youth workforce readiness programs
and that subgrants to community-based organizations'' before
the semicolon;
Page 105, after line 21, insert the following:
``(O) Activities to develop fundamental workforce readiness
skills, or to develop employability skills, which may include
communication, creativity, collaboration, and critical
thinking, and that support social-emotional development
through every developmental stage, in both formal and
informal learning experiences.
Page 108, line 12, strike ``and''.
Page 108, line 16, strike the period and insert ``; and''.
Page 108, after line 16, insert the following:
``(D) use such funds to provide subgrants to eligible
community-based organizations with experience in youth
workforce readiness and training to administer activities of
such a program.
Page 115, line 6, insert ``, which may include the names of
community-based organizations that partnered with the local
program administrator to fulfill the required program
elements'' after ``program''.
Amendment No. 21 Offered by Ms. Kaptur of Ohio
Page 172, line 2, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
Page 172, line 15, strike everything after ``activities.''.
Page 172, after line 15, insert the following:
``(C) Study on automotive truck and mechanic workforce
industry.--The Secretary of Labor, in coordination with the
heads of relevant Federal agencies, may conduct a study on
the automotive truck and mechanic workforce industry in the
public and private sector that includes--
``(i) data relating to the number of individuals entering
such industry in comparison to previous 20 years;
``(ii) identify strategies Federal agencies and Congress
may implement to prevent an automotive mechanic skilled
workforce shortage;
``(iii) if there is a decline in the number of students and
young professionals entering such workforce identified
pursuant to clause (i), an assessment relating to the reasons
for such a decline;
``(iv) how the Federal agencies are adjusting training
programs or providing a greater number of apprenticeships to
satisfy the needs of an increase in advanced modern
technology in automotive truck, public fleets, and hydrogen-
powered vehicles; and
``(v) recommendations relating to the advancement of
automotive technician training and apprenticeship programs;
and''.
Page 172, line 16, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
Amendment No. 25 Offered by Ms. Lee of California
Page 172, line 2, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
Page 172, line 15, strike everything after ``activities.''.
Page 172, after line 15, insert the following:
``(C) Study on stem workforce and stem education.--The
Secretary of Labor, in coordination with the Secretary of
Education, may conduct a study on--
``(i) the number of STEM jobs currently available and
anticipated expansion in this career pathway;
``(ii) the STEM and computer science course availability in
public secondary schools, disaggregated by race, ethnicity,
and gender; and
``(iii) how to expand access, particularly for individuals
with barriers to employment and for rural communities, to the
STEM and computer science fields.''.
Page 172, line 16, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
Amendment No. 26 Offered by Mr. McGovern of Massachusetts
Page 172, line 2, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
Page 172, line 15, strike everything after ``activities.''.
Page 172, after line 15, inserting the following:
``(C) Report on individuals with creative skillsets.--The
Secretary of Labor may conduct a study on the integration of
individuals with creative skillsets (including individuals
with training in the arts or creative industries) into in-
demand industry sectors and occupations.''; and
Page 172, line 16, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
Amendment No. 30 Offered by Mr. Morelle of New York
Page 137, line 21, strike ``and'' at the end.
Page 137, line 25, strike the period at the end and insert
``; and''.
Page 137, after line 25, insert the following:
(D) in clause (xi) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(E) in clause (xii) by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(F) by adding at the end the following:
``(xiii) activities to raise awareness about the local
workforce system and for the marketing of such system.''.
Amendment No. 32 Offered by Mr. Phillips of Minnesota
Page 121, after line 24, insert the following:
``(ii) in clause (iv)(I)(bb), by inserting `and
entrepreneurial occupations' after `employment';''.
Page 123, line 5, strike ``and''.
Page 123, after line 9, insert the following:
``(dd) relating to available entrepreneur support
resources; and''.
Amendment No. 36 Offered by Ms. Scanlon of Pennsylvania
Page 171, beginning line 11, strike everything after
``violence'' and insert ``; and''.
Page 171, after line 12, insert the following:
``(J) assistance and training for employers, programs, and
staff that mentor youth.''.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1119, the
gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott) and the gentlewoman from North
Carolina (Ms. Foxx) each will control 10 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Virginia.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
may consume.
Madam Speaker, this en bloc contains several bipartisan amendments
from our colleagues to continue improving the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act of 2022.
This en bloc contains commonsense proposals that strengthen the
underlying bill, and I thank my colleagues for their contributions.
Madam Speaker, I strongly urge support for both the en bloc and the
underlying bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Madam Speaker, this en bloc includes several amendments that I
believe would improve the underlying legislation so I will vote for the
en bloc.
Unfortunately, I must also note that the en bloc includes three
amendments to which I have concerns.
The Gottheimer amendment reduces the flexibility the workforce system
needs to meet the needs of workers.
The Harder amendment will reduce the percentage of funds going to
help youth receive the skills they need to enter the workforce.
And the Lee amendment authorizes a duplicative study that would not
be a reasonable use of taxpayer funds.
However, on balance, this en bloc will improve the underlying
legislation. This group of amendments better focuses WIOA on in-demand
jobs, decreases duplication by encouraging better alignment between K-
12 education providers and local workforce development boards, and
includes information on entrepreneurship in career and skills
development services.
Madam Speaker, I hope my colleagues will support this set of
amendments, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur), the chair of the Subcommittee on
Energy and Water Development of the Committee on Appropriations, and a
strong supporter of sector grant training.
{time} 1515
Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Scott for his astounding
leadership on this critical jobs training bill and for yielding me
time. I thank Ranking Member Foxx so very much for her support of this
effort.
Today, I urge my colleagues to support a bipartisan amendment to the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act that I have proposed alongside
Representatives Kelly, Dingell, and Ryan.
As we set about this new era of automotive and vehicular innovation,
it is crucial that we invest in the workers who are the backbone of
this uniquely American industry.
This amendment will create a pathway for the Federal Department of
Labor and other Federal agencies to conduct a study on the automotive
service technician and vehicle mechanic workforce and help promote
apprenticeships to meet the increasing need of this advanced sector.
Already, America is short 1 million trained workers across our Nation,
and we haven't gotten started. We are not off the starting line.
Electric-, hydrogen-, and biofuel-powered vehicle technology brings
new opportunities and new challenges. To be ready, we must proactively
stand up for training and apprenticeship programs that prepare
America's vehicular workforce for the next generation.
The motor vehicle industry has long served as a gateway to the middle
class, and this amendment allows the Federal Government to take
deliberate steps to ensure our workers are top of mind, not left
behind.
It is vital that we invest in the workers who make, build, and grow
America and, frankly, power her. I ask that my colleagues join me in
passing this important amendment.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Gottheimer).
Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my amendment to
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
First, I thank all of our brave veterans for putting their lives on
the line to defend our freedom and our families. After sacrificing so
much, no veteran should ever have to struggle to get the care and
resources they have earned. We should always have their backs.
My provision today will do just that, ensuring that veterans have
access to high-quality job training, workforce development, and career
navigation services. These skills will help our veterans transition
back into civilian life, reach their career goals, and care for their
families.
We know that veterans have the skills to make them exceptional
workers, but they often face barriers to employment. Data shows that
unemployment rates are higher for veterans than nonveterans.
My amendment will ensure that veterans are prioritized to receive
Federal career resources, and it builds on the work I have helped lead,
working across the aisle since I was elected to support our veterans
and their families.
The first piece of legislation I passed in Congress was to expand
hiring of post-9/11 veterans. Today, we have the opportunity to fight
for them like they fought for us.
I urge all of my colleagues to support this amendment, and I thank
the chairman for his leadership.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the
gentleman from Nevada (Mr. Horsford).
Mr. HORSFORD. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding.
Today, I rise in support of my amendment to the Workforce Innovation
and Opportunity Act, which will ensure performance measures and
accountability indicators for recognized postsecondary credentials are
made publicly available.
Now is the time for us to invest in our constituents and the
workforce. As we do so, I cannot stress enough how important it is for
Congress to mandate collecting and publicly reporting data on our job
training programs. That includes publicly reporting on performance
measures and economic outcomes, such as the types of jobs, wages, and
long-term career progression.
Having performance measures and accountability indicators publicly
available will allow us to direct Federal resources in an equitable way
so that we are getting support to individuals and programs that have
been historically underfunded.
I encourage my colleagues to support my amendment, and I look forward
to voting for this critical investment in our workers for Nevada and
for all Americans.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of
my time.
Madam Speaker, I reiterate that this is an en bloc amendment
containing commonsense, bipartisan proposals that strengthen the
underlying bill. I strongly urge support for both the en bloc amendment
and the underlying bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Madam Speaker, the amendments in this en bloc will refocus the
workforce development system on the individuals it was created to
serve: jobseekers and employers.
We must make sure that WIOA is helping all American jobseekers get
the skills they need to compete in our modern economy. We must also
make sure that WIOA programs are helping employers connect with skilled
workers, instead of saddling them with unnecessary requirements that
have no proven effectiveness.
Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I
yield back the balance of my time.
Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of my
amendment to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. My
bipartisan amendment with Congressman Fleischmann authorizes the
Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Education to conduct a study on
the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce
and STEM education.
This amendment would provide data on the number of STEM jobs
currently available and anticipated expansion in the field, the number
of STEM and computer science classes in public secondary schools, and
policy solutions to expand access for individuals with barriers to
employment, such as those from low income and minority communities, and
those from rural communities. This data will be helpful for us to
understand this rapidly expanding sector and to ensure the United
States is able to remain a global leader in the technology industry.
This amendment builds off my bipartisan bill, H.R. 3602 the Computer
Science for All Act that Rep. Fleischmann also co-leads with me which
would create grants to increase access to computer science education
for preK-12 students.
I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this bipartisan amendment.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1119, the
previous question is ordered on the amendments en bloc offered by the
gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott).
The question is on the amendments en bloc offered by the gentleman
from Virginia (Mr. Scott).
The question was taken; and the Speaker pro tempore announced that
the ayes appeared to have it.
Mr. TIFFANY. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to section 3(s) of House Resolution
8, the yeas and nays are ordered.
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this question
are postponed.
Amendments En Bloc No. 2 Offered by Mr. Scott of Virginia
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, pursuant to section 4 of House
Resolution 1119, I rise to offer amendments en bloc No. 2.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Clerk will designate the amendments en
bloc.
Amendments en bloc No. 2 consisting of amendment Nos. 2, 3, 5, 6, 7,
9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 29, 31, 33, 34, 35, 37, 38,
and 39, printed in part C of House Report 117-325, offered by Mr. Scott
of Virginia:
Amendment No. 2 Offered by Ms. Blunt Rochester of Delaware
Page 108, line 13, strike ``not more'' and all that follows
through ``wages'' on line 15 and insert ``such funds to
subsidize wages''.
Page 112, line 23, strike ``sector.'' and insert ``sector
(including the needs of small businesses).''.
Amendment No. 3 Offered by Ms. Blunt Rochester of Delaware
Page 181, line 18, strike ``176'' and insert ``177''.
Page 234, after line 4, insert the following:
SEC. 281. IMPROVING APPROACHES FOR COMMUNITIES TO THRIVE
(IMPACT) GRANTS.
Subtitle D of title I (29 U.S.C. 3221 et seq.), as amended
by this Act, is further amended by inserting after section
175, as added by the preceding section, the following:
``SEC. 176. IMPROVING APPROACHES FOR COMMUNITIES TO THRIVE
(IMPACT) GRANTS.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall award, on a
competitive basis, grants to local boards described in
subsection (c) for summer or year-round programs authorized
under section 130 for opportunity youth in communities
disproportionately affected by gun violence for the purposes
of connecting opportunity youth to in-demand industry sectors
or occupations.
``(b) Award Periods.--The Secretary shall award grants
under this section for an initial period of not more than 4
years, and may renew such awards for additional 4-year
periods.
``(c) Selection Criteria.--In awarding funds under this
section, the Secretary shall award grants to local boards
serving local areas that--
``(1) for not less than 2 out of the 3 calendar years
preceding the date on which an application for a grant under
this section is submitted--
``(A) have experienced 35 or more homicides per year; or
``(B) have experienced 20 or more homicides per year and
had a homicide rate that was not less than double the
national average; or
``(2) have a compelling need to address community violence,
as determined by the Secretary, based on high levels of
homicide relative to other local areas within the same State.
``(d) Partnerships.--In carrying out the activities funded
under a grant under this section, a local board may partner
with--
``(1) a community-based, nonprofit organization that--
``(A) serves the residents served by a unit of general
local government;
``(B) has a track record of providing workforce development
activities for individuals with barriers to employment;
``(C) focuses on training competencies and skills to
prepare opportunity youth for in-demand sectors and
occupations; and
``(D) provides--
``(i) training for opportunity youth with foundational
skill needs; and
``(ii) soft skills training that enables opportunity youth
to engage successfully in work culture;
``(2) an Indian Tribe or an agency primarily serving Native
Americans;
``(3) an entity that carries out activities authorized in
this Act that has a focus on opportunity youth;
``(4) an apprenticeship program;
``(5) a community college (as defined in section
172(i)(1)); or
``(6) a unit of general local government.
``(e) Reporting.--Each local board receiving a grant under
this section shall submit a performance report to the
Secretary that, with respect to the program funded by such
grant, identifies the levels of performance achieved on the
performance metrics listed in section 130(d).
``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--To carry out this
section, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as
may be necessary for each fiscal years 2023 through 2028.''.
Page 234, lines 6 and 8, strike ``176'' and insert ``177''.
Amendment No. 5 Offered by Mr. Bowman of New York
Page 25, line 22, strike ``and''.
Page 25, after line 22, insert the following:
(ii) in item (bb), by striking ``and'' at the end; and
Page 26, strike line 12 and insert ``and''.
Page 26, after line 12, insert the following:
``(dd) shall include a representative of youth, who
qualifies under the eligible youth definition; and''; and
Amendment No. 6 Offered by Mrs. Bustos of Illinois
Page 137, line 21, strike ``and'' at the end.
Page 137, line 25, strike the period at the end and insert
``; and''.
Page 137, after line 25, insert the following:
(D) in clause (xi), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(E) in clause (xii), by striking the period and inserting
``; and''; and
(F) by adding at the end the following:
``(xiii) training programs (including activities that
prepare individuals for occupations in the technology sector)
for individuals who are, or are likely to become, dislocated
workers as a result of automation, which includes a device,
process, or system that functions without continuous input
from an operator, including--
``(I) advanced technologies, such as--
``(aa) data collection, classification processing, and
analytics; and
``(bb) 3-D printing, digital design and simulation, and
digital manufacturing;
``(II) robotics, including collaborative robotics, and
worker augmentation technology;
``(III) autonomous vehicle technology; or
``(IV) autonomous machinery technology.''.
Page 177, after line 5, insert the following:
(a) Automation Technology.--Section 170(b)(1)(A) (29 U.S.C.
3225(b)(1)(A)) is amended by inserting ``advances in
automation technology (as described in section
134(d)(1)(A)(xiii)),'' before ``plant closures,''.
Page 177, line 6, strike ``Section 170(c)(1)(B)'' and
insert the following:
(b) National or Regional Intermediaries.--Section
170(c)(1)(B)
Page 177, after line 10, insert the following:
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 170 (29
U.S.C. 3225) is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--In addition to any
funds reserved under section 132(a)(2)(A) to carry out this
section, there are authorized to be appropriated to carry out
this section $40,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023
through 2027.''.
amendment no. 7 offered by Mr. cartwright of Pennsylvania
Page 179, line 10, insert ``, including transportation
needs determined appropriate by the Secretary'' after
``program''.
amendment no. 9 offered by mr. cohen of tennessee
Page 50, strike lines 22 and 23, and insert the following:
(B) in subparagraph (C)--
(i) in clause (ii), by striking the semicolon and inserting
``; and''; and
(ii) by amending clause (iii) to read as follows:
``(iii) may include representatives of local educational
agencies overseeing career and technical education, local
educators, or representatives of community-based
organizations with demonstrated experience and expertise in
addressing the education or training needs of individuals
with barriers to employment;'';
amendment no. 10 offerred by mr. golden of maine
Page 79, after line 10, insert the following:
``(d) Access to Broadband Internet Service.--Section
121(e)(1) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3151(e)(1)) is amended--
``(1) in subparagraph (D), by striking `and' after the
semicolon;
``(2) in subparagraph (E), by striking the period at the
end and inserting `; and'; and
``(3) by adding at the end the following:
`` `(F) provide access to broadband internet service,
including for rural communities. '.''.
amendment no. 14 offered by mr. harder of california
Page 228, line 14, strike ``or'' the first place it
appears.
Page 228, line 16, insert ``, or where the local
unemployment rate is higher than the national unemployment
rate'' after ``market''.
amendment no. 15 offered by mr. horsford of nevada
Page 43, line 8, strike ``pathways; and'' and insert
``pathways;''.
Page 43, line 16, strike the closed quotation marks and
semicolon, and insert ``; and''.
Page 43, after line 16, insert the following:
``(vii) how the State's strategy will ensure that
information about each recognized postsecondary credential
that is obtained by any program participant of a core program
described in subclause (V) of section 116(b)(2)(A)(i)--
``(I) will be made fully available under section
116(d)(6)(A) to the public as transparent, linked, open, and
interoperable data using open formats that are human readable
and machine actionable; and
``(II) will include, at a minimum--
``(aa) the levels of performance achieved with respect to
such participant on the performance accountability indicators
under clauses (i) and (ii) of section 116(b)(2)(B) and the
other performance measures under section 116; and
``(bb) the competencies, role in career pathways, and
alignment to in-demand industry and occupational skills of
such credential.'';
Page 70, strike lines 9 through 25, and insert the
following:
``(viii) Statistical adjustment model.--The Secretary of
Labor and the Secretary of Education shall--
``(I) develop and disseminate an objective statistical
model--
``(aa) that will be used to make the adjustments in the
State adjusted levels of performance for actual economic
conditions and characteristics of participants under clauses
(v) and (vii); and
``(bb) that has been peer reviewed by a technical working
group of not less than 3 researchers, and not less than 2
State data performance and analysis technical specialists,
and the representatives described in paragraph (4)(B); and
``(II) publicly disclose the factors included in the
statistical adjustment model, and the results of the peer
review in subclause (I)(bb), in a report describing the model
used to determine the adjusted levels of performance.'';
amendment no. 16 offered by ms. jackson lee of texas
At the end of title IV, add the following (and conform the
table of contents accordingly):
SEC. 403. STEM EDUCATION FOR GIRLS AND WOMEN.
In carrying out the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (as amended by this Act), the Secretary of Labor shall--
(1) prioritize providing access for girls and women to STEM
education (science, technology, engineering, and math); and
(2) ensure that educational institutions receiving
assistance under such Act will engage in outreach and support
services to girls and women to encourage their enrollment in,
and successful completion of, STEM curricula.
amendment no. 17 offered by ms. jackson lee of texas
At the end of title IV, add the following (and conform the
table of contents accordingly):
SEC. 403. APPLICATIONS FROM HBCUS AND OTHER MINORITY-SERVING
INSTITUTIONS.
In carrying out the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (as amended by this Act), the Secretary of Labor shall--
(1) encourage HBCUs (historically Black colleges and
universities), minority-serving institutions, and Tribally
controlled colleges and universities to apply for assistance
under such Act to provide job skills training and educational
services; and
(2) prioritize applications for assistance from such
entities.
amendment no. 19 offered by ms. jacobs of california
Page 135, line 24, before the semicolon, insert ``, except
that up to 5 percent of such funds may be used to provide
supportive services without regard to the requirement of this
subclause''.
amendment no. 20 offered by ms. jayapal of washington
Page 172, line 2, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
Page 172, line 15, strike all that follows after
``activities.''.
Page 172, after line 15, insert the following:
``(C) Study on training opportunities for domestic
workers.--The Secretary of Labor may conduct a study on the
development, for domestic workers who work in health care, of
career pathways, national training standards, apprenticeship
programs, and recognized postsecondary credentials or a
secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, which
may include how the creation or expansion of apprenticeship
programs for such domestic workers (including such programs
conducted at work sites of such workers and such programs
that use peer educators and peer mentors for such workers)
could improve opportunities for such workers, and make
recommendations on whether and, if so, how such programs
could improve wages and working conditions across the
domestic worker industry.''; and
Page 172, line 16, strike ``(C)'' and insert ``(D)''.
amendment no. 22 offered by mr. kilmer of washington
At the end of subtitle D of title II, add the following:
SEC. 283. NATIONAL STUDY OF FEDERAL PROGRAM ACCESS FOR JOB-
SEEKERS.
Section 169(b)(4) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3224(b)(4)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraph (K) as subparagraph (L);
and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (J) the following:
``(K) The Secretary of Labor shall conduct a study on
Federal, State, and local efforts to improve accessibility of
Federal programs for eligible job seekers. Such study shall
include an analysis of the following:
``(i) Past and current efforts in the United States,
including at the State and local level, to improve
accessibility of programs through benefit interoperability
and categorical eligibility initiatives, including with
respect to the following kinds of benefits: job training,
tuition assistance, nutrition, housing, heating and energy,
transit, transportation, and healthcare.
``(ii) The connection between a jobseekers' access to such
programs and their short and long-term economic self-
sufficiency.
``(iii) Information on which kinds of benefits most quickly
lead to increased economic self-sufficiency for jobseekers.
``(iv) Challenges in existing programs for jobseekers to
attain economic self-sufficiency, including the impact of a
reduction in benefits before economic self-sufficiency is
attained.
``(v) Recommendations on improving Federal programs to
better ensure jobseekers attain economic self-sufficiency.''.
Amendment No. 23 Offered by Mrs. Lawrence of Michigan
Page 77, line 9, strike ``and''.
Page 77, line 10, insert ``, and individuals at risk of
displacement and in need of upskilling due to evolving
technologies or automation'' before ``through''.
Amendment No. 24 Offered by Mrs. Lawrence of Michigan
Page 244, line 13, after ``implement'', insert ``(as an
alternative to meeting the requirements of section 116)''.
Page 251, strike line 23 and all that follows through page
252, line 2.
Page 252, line 3, strike ``(7)'' and insert ``(6)''.
Page 252, strike lines 16 through 24.
Page 253, line 1, strike ``(9)'' and insert ``(7)''.
Amendment No. 29 Offered by Mr. Morelle of New York
Page 256, after line 2, insert the following:
SEC. 3__. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS.
Section 241 (29 U.S.C. 3331) is amended by adding at the
end the following new section:
``(c) Prompt Allocation of Funds.--Funds shall be made
available under section 211 for an eligible agency not later
than 30 days after the eligible agency has a unified State
plan approved under section 102 or a combined State plan
approved under section 103 (as the case may be).''.
Amendment No. 31 Offered by Ms. Newman of Illinois
Page 101, beginning line 22, amend subparagraph (B) to read
as follows:
(B) in subparagraph (D)--
(i) in clause (iv), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in clause (v), by striking ``and'' at the end; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(vi) coordinating with other entities that provide
financial literacy education and empowerment activities (such
as nonprofit organizations, State and local government
agencies with relevant missions, and financial institutions)
to support the activities described in clauses (i) through
(v); and
``(vii) supporting the ability to understand relevant tax
information and obligations; and''; and
Page 105, line 7, insert before the period the following:
``, including the information described in subsection
(b)(2)(D)''.
Page 120, beginning line 1, amend subparagraph (C) to read
as follows:
(C) by amending item (ff) to read as follows:
``(ff) financial literacy activities, including activities
designed to make specific and measurable progress on key
financial health factors (including to increase credit score,
reduce high cost debt, and increase access to safe and
affordable mainstream banking products); and''.
Page 124, after line 21, insert the following:
(v) in clause (xii), by amending subclause (IX) to read as
follows:
``(IX) financial empowerment services, such as the
activities described in subsection (a)(3)(A)(viii)(II)(ff);
and''.
Pag 152, after line 12, insert the following:
(f) Job Corps Center Program Activities.--Section 148(a)(1)
is amended--
(1) by striking ``which may include'' and inserting
``including''; and
(2) by inserting ``(such as the information described in
section 129(b)(2)(D))'' after ``financial literacy''.
Amendment No. 33 Offered by Ms. Porter of California
Page 98, after line 24, insert the following:
``(D) mental health professionals specifically trained in
youth treatment, where possible;''.
Page 105, after line 6, insert the following:
``(K) Services that provide participants with information
on Federal, State, and local mental health resources,
including contact information for the National Suicide
Prevention Lifeline.''.
Amendment No. 34 Offered by Ms. Scanlon of Pennsylvania
Page 13, line 15, strike the closed quotation marks and
second period.
Page 13, after line 15, insert the following:
``(VI) An individual with foundational skill needs.
``(VII) An individual at-risk of academic failure by being
at least 1 year behind the expected grade level for the age
of the individual.
``(VIII) An individual who has dropped out of school in the
past or has a higher rate of absenteeism than the peers of
the individual.''.
Page 108, line 9, insert ``and'' at the end.
Page 108, lines 11 and 12, strike ``; and'' and insert a
period.
Page 108, strike lines 13 through 16.
Amendment No. 35 Offered by Ms. Scanlon of Pennsylvania
Page 59, line 19, insert ``and eligible youth'' after
``employment''.
Page 59, line 21, insert ``eligible youth and'' after
``for''.
Amendment No. 37 Offered by Mr. Schneider of Illinois
Page 192, beginning on line 13, strike ``subsection (f)''
and insert ``subsection (g)''.
Beginning on page 192, strike line 15 and all that follows
through the end of line 6 on page 196.
Page 196, line 7, strike ``(g) Evaluations and Reports''
and insert ``(f) Evaluations''.
Page 199, after line 7, insert the following:
``(g) Performance Reports and Reviews.--
``(1) Performance reports.--
``(A) In general.--Not less frequently than annually during
each year of the grant period, each eligible institution that
receives a grant under this section shall submit to the
Secretary a report on the performance outcomes achieved by
the institution and the programs funded with the grant.
``(B) Elements.--Each report under this paragraph shall
include the following information:
``(i) The performance of individuals participating in
programs funded with the grant with respect to each of the
primary indicators of performance for adults described in
section 116(b).
``(ii) The performance of the eligible institution on the
performance indicators related to capacity building described
in subsection (d)(2)(M).
``(iii) Such other information as the Secretary determines
appropriate.
``(2) Template.--The Secretary shall develop a template for
the performance reports under paragraph (1) that shall be
used by eligible institutions for the preparation and
submission of such reports.
``(3) Publication of reports.--The Secretary shall make the
reports received under paragraph (1) available on a publicly
accessible website of the Department of Labor in transparent,
linked, open, and interoperable data formats.
``(4) Review.--On an annual basis, the Secretary shall
review and evaluate each performance report submitted by an
eligible institution under paragraph (1) to determine if the
institution achieved adequate levels of performance. If the
Secretary determines that an eligible institution did not
achieve adequate levels of performance, the Secretary shall
provide technical assistance to the institution.''.
Page 199, strike lines 8 through 20.
Page 199, line 21, strike ``(i)'' and insert ``(h)''.
Page 201, line 11, strike ``(j)'' and insert ``(i)''.
Page 201, line 16, strike ``(k)'' and insert ``(j)''.
Amendment No. 38 Offered by Mr. Smith of Washington
Page 105, after line 24, insert the following:
(P) Provision of meals and other food assistance that is
offered to participants in conjunction with another activity
described in this paragraph.
Amendment No. 39 Offered by Mrs. Torres of California
Page 235, after line 18, insert the following (and
redesignate the succeeding sections accordingly):
SEC. 291. LABOR STANDARDS.
Section 181(b) (29 U.S.C. 3241(b)) is amended by adding at
the end the following--
``(8) Provision of information on worker rights.--Any
participant receiving training under this title shall be
provided information on--
``(A) wages and hours, including under the Fair Labor
Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.);
``(B) safe working conditions, including under the
Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (29 10 U.S.C. 651
et seq.);
``(C) forming, joining, or assisting a labor organization,
including under the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C.
153 et seq.); and
``(D) other applicable terms and conditions of employment,
and relevant Federal and State laws (including regulations)
on employment rights.''.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1119, the
gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott) and the gentlewoman from North
Carolina (Ms. Foxx) each will control 10 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Virginia.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
may consume.
Madam Speaker, this en bloc amendment contains additional Democratic
amendments from my colleagues to continue improving the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022.
This en bloc amendment contains proposals that strengthen the
underlying bill, and I thank my colleagues for their contributions.
I strongly urge support for both the en bloc amendment and the
underlying bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to the amendment. This Democratic
en bloc creates new programs, authorizes new funding, expands
bureaucracy on workforce development boards, imposes new mandates on
States and local areas, detracts from skills development services, and
transforms WIOA from a workforce program into a welfare program.
This laundry list of problems is not what our Nation's jobseekers
need. I cannot agree to saddle employers and workers with new Federal
mandates that will make it harder for them to grow the economy and
better individual lives.
I urge my colleagues to oppose the package, and I reserve the balance
of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield 2\1/2\ minutes to the
gentlewoman from Delaware (Ms. Blunt Rochester), who is a former member
of the Committee on Education and Labor and a strong supporter of
workforce development.
Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Scott for his
leadership.
I am proud to have my amendments to H.R. 7309 before the House today.
In particular, I am proud of amendment No. 3, which gained the support
of 42 of my colleagues. This amendment would establish grants to help
break the cycle of violence in communities by providing job and
workforce development opportunities to youth in communities
disproportionately affected by gun violence.
With this broad support, I call on my colleagues to support this
amendment, which helps reduce community violence the best way we know
how--by building pipelines to good-paying, high-quality jobs for youth
that are disconnected from school and the workforce--to create
opportunity, to improve lives, and to provide for the future.
Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman, again, for his leadership.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of
my time.
I reiterate that this en bloc amendment contains commonsense
proposals that will strengthen the underlying bill.
Madam Speaker, I strongly urge support for both the en bloc amendment
and the underlying bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Madam Speaker, we should focus on empowering jobseekers to select
skills development providers that will prepare them for in-demand jobs
and make sure that employers are involved in this process so we can
close the skills gap.
We should also streamline the workforce system so that funding is not
wasted on unnecessary bureaucracy and administrative overhead. This
funding should instead be directed toward upskilling workers.
Unfortunately, this Democratic en bloc misses the mark on each of
these fronts.
Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose this group of
amendments, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. Kaptur). Pursuant to House Resolution
1119, the previous question is ordered on the amendments en bloc
offered by the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott).
The question is on the amendments en bloc.
The question was taken; and the Speaker pro tempore announced that
the ayes appeared to have it.
Mr. TIFFANY. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to section 3(s) of House Resolution
8, the yeas and nays are ordered.
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this question
are postponed.
Amendments En Bloc No. 3 Offered by Mr. Scott of Virginia
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, pursuant to section 4 of House
Resolution 1119, I rise to offer amendments en bloc No. 3.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Clerk will designate the amendments en
bloc.
Amendments en bloc No. 3 consisting of amendment Nos. 11, 18, and 27,
printed in part C of House Report 117-325, offered by Mr. Scott of
Virginia:
Amendment No. 11 Offered by Mr. Good of Virginia
Page 20, strike lines 3 through 7.
Page 84, after line 2, insert the following:
(a) Apprentice.--Section 122(a) (29 U.S.C. 3152(a)) is
amended--
(2) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking ``registered''; and
(3) in paragraph (3), by striking ``A provider described in
paragraph (2)(B) shall be included and maintained on the list
of eligible providers of training services described in
subsection (d) for so long as the corresponding program of
the provider remains registered as described in paragraph
(2)(B).''.
Page 84, line 4, strike ``is'' and insert ``is further''.
Page 177, after line 12, insert the following:
(1) in subsection (b), by striking paragraph (10), and
redesignating paragraphs (11) and (12) as paragraphs (10) and
(11);
Page 178, after line 14, insert following:
(I) in clause (i), by striking ``registered'';
Page 178, line 19, strike ``and''.
Page 178, after line 19, insert the following:
(III) in clause (xiii), by striking ``registered''; and
Amendment No. 18 Offered by Mr. Jacobs of New York
Page 44, line 15, strike the closed quotation marks and ``;
and''.
Page 44, after line 15, insert the following:
``(VI) the plan of the eligible agency to award grants and
contracts to eligible providers under section 231 in a timely
manner as required under subsection (a) of such section;'';
and''.
Page 45, after line 9, insert the following:
(II) in clause (viii)(I), by inserting before the semicolon
the following: ``, and award grants and contracts to eligible
providers under section 231 in a timely manner as required
under subsection (a) of such section'';
Page 255, after line 5, insert the following:
(a) Grants and Contracts for Eligible Providers.--Section
231(a) (29 U.S.C. 3321(a)) is amended by striking ``shall
award'' and inserting ``shall award, in a timely manner,''.
Page 255, line 6, strike ``Section 231(e)(6)'' and insert
the following:
(b) Considerations.--Section 231(e)(6)
Amendment No. 27 Offered by Mrs. Miller of Illinois
Page 260, after line 20, insert the following:
SEC. 403. PROHIBITION ON PAYMENT OR REIMBURSEMENT FOR HEALTH
CARE SERVICES.
Subtitle A of title V (29 U.S.C. 3341 et seq.) is further
amended by adding at the end the following:
``SEC. 508. PROHIBITION ON PAYMENT OR REIMBURSEMENT FOR
HEALTH CARE SERVICES.
``Funds made available to carry out this Act shall not be
used to provide direct payment or reimbursement for any
health care services.''.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1119, the
gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott) and the gentlewoman from North
Carolina (Ms. Foxx) each will control 10 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Virginia.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
may consume.
Madam Speaker, this en bloc amendment contains several amendments
which I oppose; therefore, I reserve the balance of my time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from
Virginia (Mr. Good).
Mr. GOOD of Virginia. Madam Speaker, Democrats believe that the
government should control everything: what kind of car you drive,
whether you have to get a vaccine, how or if you get to heat or cool
your home, if you can keep your job, and if you can open or operate
your business.
Republicans, on the other hand, believe that Americans should control
their own lives, their purchasing decisions, their healthcare
decisions, and even their businesses and apprenticeship programs.
Businessowners across the country try to utilize apprenticeships to
develop the skilled employees that they need to succeed and grow.
Sadly, this Democratic bill only funds government-approved
apprenticeships that are registered with the Department of Labor, not
those designed by businessowners who have the audacity to think that
they know more about their business than those with no business
experience, like President Biden and the progressive activists that
make up his administration.
{time} 1530
Why would anyone trust Joe Biden to run their business? He has no
private sector experience, but he is now the proud owner of the worst
economic record in modern history--so there is that.
Why would anyone trust Democrats in this Congress or this
administration to run their business? These former educators, lawyers,
community organizers, and progressive activists have ruined the
outstanding economy that they inherited in January of 2021.
House Democrats demand that you have your apprenticeship program
designed by unelected bureaucrats in the Department of Labor because,
of course, Washington knows best when it comes to everything.
Look what they have done with inflation, supply chains, rising crime,
the open border, and everything else. They are a picture of success. If
Washington truly knew best, then one in four businesses would not have
closed permanently in my home State of Virginia due to Democrat COVID
restrictions.
Employers in my district often ask me: Why do they have to submit to
government control to be eligible for funding for their apprenticeship
program? Who could do a better job developing apprenticeships than the
people who, you know, actually create the jobs; despite Washington's
best efforts to prevent them from doing so? That question was
rhetorical, please don't answer.
My amendment would actually let employers run their own
apprenticeship programs and help them educate their workers the way
they need to so they can expand their workforces.
Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support my amendment.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my
time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
This en bloc includes several amendments that I believe would vastly
improve the underlying legislation.
First, these amendments would bring needed flexibility and innovation
to the workforce development system when it comes to apprenticeships.
Democrats have, unfortunately, chosen to double down on the outdated
registered apprenticeship model rather than meet employers where they
are at. This group of amendments includes proposals that encourage
innovation to occur so that apprenticeships can meet the needs of more
employers.
Second, one of the amendments would ensure that States provide a
realistic and workable timetable for awarding grants and contracts for
adult basic education. This is simply good governance. States should
not hold on to funding indefinitely that is intended to be directed
toward jobseekers. This amendment will make sure the funding goes where
it is intended and doesn't get stuck with bureaucrats to the detriment
of individuals seeking basic education services.
Third, WIOA should be focused first and foremost on providing skills
development services for jobseekers. It is unfortunate that H.R. 7309
adds vague language encouraging supportive services to include
``healthcare supports.'' While I was pleased that the longstanding Hyde
amendment was secured and will apply to WIOA funds for fiscal year 2022
appropriations, I will always fight to see the Hyde amendment applied
to ensure Federal funds do not support the killing of babies. It is of
utmost importance that taxpayer dollars do not go to pay for killing
babies, and this amendment would guarantee that.
The right to life is our most fundamental and sacred right and must
always be protected. I will always remain vigilant to ensure that
taxpayer funds do not pay for the killing of babies.
Madam Speaker, I hope my colleagues will support this set of
amendments, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I am the only speaker on this
side. I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I have a couple of other speakers, so I am
not prepared to close.
Madam Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman
from New York (Mr. Jacobs).
Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my
amendment, which would be of great benefit to adult learners across
this country, and especially in my home State of New York.
New York State has had issues over the last several years in
distributing these funds promptly. Independent programs typically
operate on very thin budgets, so any delay in funding puts their
operations in jeopardy.
My amendment would ensure States are held accountable for
distributing funding promptly by requiring the States to provide a
timeline for distributing grants and contracts for adult basic
education in the Unified State Plan, and specifying that funds must be
distributed in a timely manner.
The typical adult learner benefiting from title II funding is either
an individual who was not able to access a K-12 education as a child or
is a recent immigrant.
Last September, I visited one of the adult education programs in my
district, Literacy West New York, and I walked away very impressed by
the adult learners there. Life certainly has not been easy for them,
but that hasn't stopped them from pressing on and working to improve
their lives.
It is important we make sure that the resources promised to our
Nation's adult learners, and the programs that support them, are
available.
Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my
time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from
Illinois (Mrs. Miller).
Mrs. MILLER of Illinois. Madam Speaker, my amendment puts strong
protections in place so that no funds in this bill can go toward
harming the unborn.
The underlying bill includes a provision that allows taxpayer dollars
to be used for health and mental healthcare support.
Without the protections my amendment offers, this funding could go to
counseling young pregnant women to seek abortions. This is wrong. A
child in the womb is a distinct, developing, whole human being.
In my home State of Illinois, our leftist Governor announced this
week he will take Federal funding from title 10 and give it to Planned
Parenthood of Illinois. This goes directly against Federal law and the
Hyde amendment.
Those on the other side of this aisle, in this body, use every
opportunity to get rid of the Hyde amendment. That is why my amendment
is so important. The growing hostility toward the Hyde amendment is
alarming and means we must be vigilant in our efforts to ensure program
dollars authorized by Congress cannot be used for abortions or abortion
services.
God is the author of life, not Congress. The taking of life through
abortion is an assault on the image of God.
Abortion is not healthcare, despite what the left says, and we should
not force taxpayers to violate their morals or strongly held beliefs by
forcing them to pay for it. My amendment ensures that they won't.
Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my
time.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I yield myself
such time as I may consume.
Madam Speaker, the amendments in this en bloc will refocus the
workforce development system on the individuals it was created to
serve: jobseekers and employers. We must make sure that WIOA is helping
all American jobseekers get the skills they need to compete in our
modern economy.
We must also make sure that WIOA programs are helping employers
connect with skilled workers instead of saddling them with unnecessary
requirements that have no proven effectiveness.
Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I
yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of
my time.
Madam Speaker, I focus my comments on two of the amendments in this
en bloc that undermine the improvements we are putting forward in this
legislation.
The first strikes language from the bill that prevents nonregistered
apprenticeships from receiving WIOA funds. If you want to have a
nonregistered apprenticeship program you can do that, but we ought to
fund the registered programs first since they are much better, and we
shouldn't spend money on those nonregistered programs.
Registered apprenticeship programs are a proven strategy that have
demonstrated high-quality training and wage progression across multiple
industries. This bill supports efforts to expand registered
apprenticeships to additional populations and industries, by reserving
50 percent of the funds for programs serving individuals with barriers
to employment.
Many of my colleagues have opposed the so-called Industry-Recognized
Apprenticeship Programs, or IRAPs, because that program discards key
features that are the cause of success for our registered
apprenticeship program, including quality standards, worker
protections, national recognition, and the fact that virtually all
registered apprenticeship graduates end up in jobs that pay well above
the median wage.
The second amendment in this en bloc amendment group prohibits WIOA
funds from being used to reimburse any healthcare services. I am not
sure where they find that physical health is included. Mental health
counseling and substance abuse is included as possible funding.
The question about whether WIOA will pay for health services is a
distraction from the work we are trying to do today, to ensure an
equitable recovery, and provide opportunity for economic advancement
for all individuals in all communities.
This legislation reflects the input from stakeholders across the
country who know what it takes to expand access to high-quality job
training, career navigation services, and other critical services.
The statute has long provided for flexibility for local programs. The
statute also allows for the provision of supportive services, such as
assistance with transportation, childcare, dependent care, or housing;
services that are crucial to facilitating individuals' ability to
participate in WIOA-funded programs.
In fact, the legislation specifically ensures that treatment of
substance use disorder is a permissible use of supportive services
under WIOA.
Fundamentally, needs of individuals seeking job training are not
always distinct from health needs. These programs should meet people
where they are to facilitate full participation to ensure continued and
sustained economic success.
Updating and improving programs authorized through WIOA, such as the
bill we are considering today, will lift up communities and help us
achieve that goal. This is what we need to do today by voting ``no'' on
this en bloc amendment and ``yes'' on the underlying bill.
Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. Blunt Rochester). Pursuant to House
Resolution 1119, the previous question is ordered on the amendments en
bloc offered by the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott).
The question is on the amendments en bloc.
The question was taken; and the Speaker pro tempore announced that
the noes appeared to have it.
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to section 3(s) of House Resolution
8, the yeas and nays are ordered.
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this question
are postponed.
Amendment No. 28 Offered by Mrs. Miller-Meeks
The SPEAKER pro tempore. It is now in order to consider amendment
number 28 printed in part C of House Report 117-325.
Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I have an amendment at the desk.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Clerk will designate the amendment.
The text of the amendment is as follows:
Strike all of the text and insert the following:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``The Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act of 2022''.
SEC. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The table of contents for this Act is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Table of contents.
Sec. 3. Definitions.
TITLE I--WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES
Subtitle A--System Alignment
Sec. 101. State workforce development board.
Sec. 102. Unified State plan.
Sec. 103. Workforce development areas.
Sec. 104. Local workforce development boards.
Sec. 105. Local plan.
Sec. 106. Performance accountability system.
Subtitle B--Workforce Investment Activities and Providers
Sec. 111. Establishment of one-stop delivery systems.
Sec. 112. Identification of eligible providers of training services.
Sec. 113. Within State allocations.
Sec. 114. Use of funds for youth workforce investment activities.
Sec. 115. Use of funds for employment and training activities.
Sec. 116. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle C--Job Corps
Sec. 121. Job Corps centers.
Sec. 122. Program activities.
Sec. 123. Standards of conduct.
Sec. 124. Advisory committees.
Sec. 125. Experimental projects and technical assistance.
Sec. 126. Job Corps Scholars activities.
Sec. 127. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle D--National Programs
Sec. 131. Evaluations and research.
Sec. 132. YouthBuild program.
Sec. 133. Justice-involved individuals Reentry Program Start-up Grants.
Sec. 134. Authorization of appropriations.
Subtitle E--Administration
Sec. 137. Secretarial administrative authorities and responsibilities.
TITLE II--ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY
Sec. 201. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 202. State leadership activities.
Sec. 203. Grants and contracts for eligible provider.
TITLE III--GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 301. Executive agency review of occupational licensing
requirements.
TITLE IV--AMENDMENTS TO THE WAGNER-PEYSER ACT
Sec. 401. Workforce and labor market information system.
TITLE V--AMENDMENTS TO THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973
Sec. 501. Competitive integrated employment.
Sec. 502. Authorization of appropriations.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
3101 et seq.) is amended in section 3 (29 U.S.C. 3102)--
(1) in paragraph (7)(B), by striking ``registered'' and all
that follows through ``171)'';
(2) in paragraph (44)--
(A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(B) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) in a case in which each of the conditions under
section 134(c)(3)(I)(i) are met with respect to such training
(including the establishment of an on-the-job training
agreement described in section 134(c)(3)(I)(iii)), provides
the Federal share of the cost of training to the employer
through an employer-directed skills account.'';
(3) by amending paragraph (47) to read as follows:
``(47) Pay-for-performance contract strategy.--The term
`pay-for-performance contract strategy' means a procurement
strategy that--
``(A) uses pay-for-performance contracts in the provision
of training services described in section 134(c)(3) or
activities described in section 129(c)(2), and includes--
``(i) contracts, each of which shall specify a fixed amount
that will be paid to an eligible service provider (which may
include a local or national community-based organization or
intermediary, community college, or other training provider,
that is eligible under section 122 or 123, as appropriate)
based on the achievement of specified levels of performance
on the primary indicators of performance described in section
116(b)(2)(A) for target populations as identified by the
local board (including individuals with barriers to
employment), within a defined timetable, and which may
provide for bonus payments to such service provider to expand
capacity to provide effective training;
``(ii) a strategy for independently validating the
achievement of the performance described in clause (i); and
``(iii) a description of how the State or local area will
reallocate funds not paid to a provider because the
achievement of the performance described in clause (i) did
not occur, for further activities related to such a
procurement strategy, subject to section 189(g)(4); and
``(B) does not require a local area to conduct a
feasibility study prior to implementing such pay-for-
performance contract strategy.'';
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(72) Digital literacy skills.--The term `digital literary
skills' has the meaning given such term in section 202 of the
Museum and Library Services Act (20 U.S.C. 9101).
``(73) Employer-sponsored skills development.--The term
``employer-sponsored skills development'' means a skills
development program--
``(A) that is selected by an employer to meet the specific
skill demands of the employer;
``(B) that is conducted pursuant to terms and conditions
which are established under an employer-sponsored skills
development agreement described in section 134(c)(3)(I)(iv),
including a commitment by the employer to employ an
individual upon successful completion of the program;
``(C) for which an employer pays a portion of the cost of
the program, which shall not be less than--
``(i) 10 percent of the cost, in the case of an employer
with not more than 50 employees;
``(ii) 25 percent of the cost, in the case of an employer
with more than 50 employees but not more than 100 employees;
and
``(iii) 50 percent of the cost, in the case of an employer
with more than 100 employees; and
``(D) for which the Federal share of the cost of the
program is provided to the employer through an employer-
directed skills account in accordance with section
134(c)(3)(I)(ii).
``(74) Evidenced-based.--The term ``evidence-based'', when
used with respect to an activity, strategy, or intervention,
means an activity, strategy, or intervention that--
``(A) demonstrates a statistically significant effect on
improving participant outcomes or other relevant outcomes
based on-- (i) strong evidence from at least 1 well-designed
and well-implemented experimental study; (ii) moderate
evidence from at least 1 well-designed and well-implemented
quasi-experimental study; or (iii) promising evidence from at
least 1 well-designed and well-implemented correlational
study with statistical controls for selection bias; or
``(B)(i) demonstrates a rationale based on high-quality
research findings or positive evaluation that such activity,
strategy, or intervention is likely to improve participant
outcomes or other relevant outcomes; and
``(ii) includes ongoing efforts to examine the effects of
such activity, strategy, or intervention.''; and
(5) by reordering paragraphs (1) through (74), as amended
by this section, and the paragraphs added by this paragraph
in alphabetical order, and renumbering such paragraphs as so
reordered;
TITLE I--WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES
Subtitle A--System Alignment
SEC. 101. STATE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD.
Section 101(d) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3111(d)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (3)(D)--
(A) by striking ``and jobseekers'' and inserting
``jobseekers, and entrepreneurs''; and
(B) by inserting ``and entrepreneurial skills development
and microenterprise services'' after ``occupations''; and
(2) in paragraph (5)--
(A) by inserting ``evidence-based and other'' after
``information on''; and
(B) by inserting ``evidence-based and other'' after
``including''.
SEC. 102. UNIFIED STATE PLAN.
Section 102(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3112(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in clause (ii), by ``and'' at the end; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(iii) projected industries or sectors within the State
expected to decline or face significant changes in employment
opportunities;'';
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) and (E) as
subparagraphs (E) and (G), respectively;
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following:
``(D) an analysis of the extent to which the activities
described in subparagraph (C) are evidence-based, and a
description of the State's plan for increasing the use of
evidence-based activities in the State;'';
(D) in subparagraph (E), as so redesignated, by striking
``and'' at the end;
(E) by inserting after subparagraph (E), as so
redesignated, the following:
``(F) a description of the occupational licensing
requirements for specific occupations or industry sectors in
the State; and''; and
(F) in subparagraph (G), as so redesignated--
(i) by striking ``(C)'' and inserting ``(D)''; and
(ii) by striking ``subparagraph (D)'' and inserting
``subparagraph (E)''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (C)--
(i) in clause (vii), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(ii) in clause (viii), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(ix) how the State will disseminate information to the
core programs and entities of the State's workforce
investment system on the availability and use of evidence-
based activities.'';
(B) in subparagraph (D)(ii)--
(i) in subclause (V), by inserting ``and'' at the end; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(VI) the plan of the eligible agency to award grants and
contracts to eligible providers under section 231 in a timely
manner as required under subsection (a) of such section;'';
and
(C) in subparagraph (E)(viii)(I), by inserting ``, and
award grants and contracts to eligible providers under
section 231 in a timely manner as required under subsection
(a) of such section'' after ``provisions)''.
SEC. 103. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AREAS.
Section 106 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3121) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``after consultation
with the local boards and chief elected officials in the
local areas'' and inserting ``after consultation with the
State economic development agency, local boards, chief
elected officials'';
(2) in subsection (b)(1), by adding at the end the
following:
``(C) Consultations.--The State board, State economic
development agency, chief elected officials, and local boards
shall provide such consultations as requested by the Governor
in a timely manner.''.
(3) in subsection (c)(1)--
(A) by redesignating subparagraphs (E), (F), (G), and (H)
as subparagraphs (F), (G), (H), and (I), respectively; and
(B) by adding after subparagraph (D) the following:
``(E) the establishment of cost arrangements for services
described in subsections (c) and (d) of section 134,
including the pooling of funds for such costs;''.
SEC. 104. LOCAL WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARDS.
Section 107 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3122) is amended--
(1) in subsection (d)(6)--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``Proven'' and inserting
``Evidence-based''; and
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``proven'' and
inserting ``evidence-based''; and
(2) in subsection (f), by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Professional development.--The local board may
provide board and one-stop delivery system staff with
professional development on--
``(A) the expanded use of digital technology and tools for
augmenting and improving the delivery of services to
participants and employers; and
``(B) the identification and implementation of evidence-
based strategies.''.
SEC. 105. LOCAL PLAN.
Section 108(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3123(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (4)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)(iv), by striking ``and'' at the
end;
(B) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``and'' at the end;
and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) that may include opportunities for workers
participating in incumbent worker training programs, on-the-
job training programs, or customized training programs to
fulfill any applicable educational requirements necessary to
obtain any professional license that may be required for such
workers' occupations;'';
(2) in paragraph (6)(B), by inserting ``, including digital
technology,'' after ``technology''; and
(3) in paragraph (19), by inserting ``or employer-directed
skills accounts'' after ``individual training accounts''.
SEC. 106. PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM.
Section 116 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3141) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (2)(B), by inserting ``and the evidence
that such indicators are correlated with program quality''
after ``indicators''; and
(B) in paragraph (3)(A), by adding at the end the
following:
``(ix) Transparency requirement.--The Secretary of Labor in
conjunction with the Secretary of Education shall publish on
a publicly accessible website the statistical model developed
under clause (viii), and the methodology used to develop each
such proposed expected level of performance.''; and
(2) in subsection (d)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (J), by inserting ``and'' at the end;
(B) by amending subparagraph (K) to read as follows:
``(K) to the extent practicable, the number and percentage
of participants who obtained employment in an industry or
sector related to their program of study upon exit from the
program.''.
Subtitle B--Workforce Investment Activities and Providers
SEC. 111. ESTABLISHMENT OF ONE-STOP DELIVERY SYSTEMS.
Section 121 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3151) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(A)(ii), by inserting ``physical and
virtual'' after ``of the''; and
(2) in subsection (e)--
(A) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by inserting ``in person or virtually'' after
``accessible''; and
(II) by inserting ``virtual or'' before ``physical'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B)(i), by inserting ``(such as a
community college campus, a secondary school, an area career
and technical education school, or a public library)'' after
``sites''; and
(iii) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``virtual or
physical'' after ``have''; and
(B) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``, which may be virtual
or physical,'' after ``one-stop centers''.
SEC. 112. IDENTIFICATION OF ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS OF TRAINING
SERVICES.
Section 122 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3152) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Providers.--Subject to the provisions of this
section, to be eligible to receive those funds for the
provision of training services, the provider--
``(A) shall be--
``(i) an institution of higher education that provides a
program that leads to a recognized postsecondary credential;
``(ii) an entity that carries out apprenticeships; or
``(iii) another public or private provider of a program of
training services, which may include joint labor-management
organizations, providers of entrepreneurial skills
development programs, business or industry associations, and
eligible providers of adult education and literacy activities
under title II, if such activities are provided in
combination with occupational skills training; and
``(B) may include providers listed under subparagraph (A)
delivering services in part, or exclusively, online.''; and
(B) in paragraph (3), by striking ``A provider described in
paragraph (2)(B) shall be included and maintained on the list
of eligible providers of training services described in
subsection (d) for so long as the corresponding program of
the provider remains registered as described in paragraph
(2)(B).'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``and online learning
platforms'' after ``technology'';
(ii) by redesignating subparagraph (J) as subparagraph (K);
and
(iii) by inserting after subparagraph (I) the following:
``(J) The expected--
``(i) program cost of such program;
``(ii) skills taught as part of such program; and
``(iii) time to completion of such program.''.
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs
(4) and (5), respectively;
(C) by adding after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) States.--The State shall make available on a publicly
accessible website--
``(A) the criteria, information requirements, and
procedures regarding the eligibility of providers of services
established pursuant to subsection (a)(2); and
``(B) the appropriate, accurate, and timely information
each provider of services submits to the State in accordance
with subparagraphs (A), (B), (C), (D), and (E) of paragraph
(2).'';
(D) by amending paragraph (4), as so redesignated, to read
as follows:
``(4) Local criteria and information requirements.--
``(A) In general.--A local board in the State may establish
criteria and information requirements in addition to the
criteria and information requirements established by the
Governor, or may require higher levels of performance than
required for the criteria established by the Governor, for
purposes of determining the eligibility of providers of
training services to receive funds described in subsection
(a) for the provision of training services in the local area
involved.
``(B) Local nominations.--A local board may submit the name
of a provider or providers, including online-only providers,
to the Governor for inclusion of each such provider on the
list of eligible providers described in subsection (a), if
such a provider meets the applicable criteria described in
paragraph (1) to meet training needs in the local area or
region. The Governor shall make a decision not later than 30
days after the submission of such name or names under this
subparagraph.''; and
(E) in paragraph (5)(B), as so redesignated, by inserting
``A Governor shall make an eligibility determination under
this paragraph with respect to a provider not later than 30
days after receipt of an application for such a determination
from such provider.'' at the end; and
(3) in subsection (h)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``employer-sponsored
skills development,'' after ``incumbent worker training,'';
and
(B) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``employer-sponsored
skills development,'' after ``incumbent worker training,''.
SEC. 113. WITHIN STATE ALLOCATIONS.
Section 128(a)(1) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3163(a)(1)) is amended by striking
``15'' and inserting ``30''.
SEC. 114. USE OF FUNDS FOR YOUTH WORKFORCE INVESTMENT
ACTIVITIES.
Section 129(b)(2) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3164(b)(2)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ``, such as
opportunities for youth to receive individualized skills
development services,'' after ``eligible youth'';
(2) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``, which may include
providing guidance on career options in high-skill, high-
wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations in current
or emerging professions and nontraditional fields (including
skilled trades)'' after ``State'';
(3) in subparagraph (D)(v), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(4) in subparagraph (E), by striking the period and
inserting a semicolon; and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
``(F) raising public awareness and conducting public
service announcements about career and technical education
programs and community-based and youth services
organizations, including through social media campaigns,
elementary and secondary school showcases and school visits,
and other endeavors focused on programs that prepare students
(especially students in underrepresented geographic areas)
for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or
occupations in current or emerging professions and in
nontraditional fields (such as skilled trades); and
``(G) developing partnerships between educational
institutions (including area career and technical education
schools and institutions of higher education) and employers
to create or improve workforce development programs to
address the identified education and skill needs of the
workforce and the employment needs of employers in the
regions of the State, as determined based on the most recent
analysis conducted under subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section
102(b)(1).''.
SEC. 115. USE OF FUNDS FOR EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING
ACTIVITIES.
(a) Statewide Employment and Training Activities.--Section
134(a) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3174(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(B) is amended--
(A) in clause (v)(VI), by striking the ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(B) in clause (vi), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(vii) coordinating with industry organizations, employers
(including small and mid-sized employers), training
providers, local boards, and institutions of higher education
to identify or develop assessments that--
``(I) are a valid and reliable method of collecting
information; and
``(II) measure the prior knowledge, skills, competencies,
and experiences of an individual for the purpose of--
``(aa) awarding postsecondary credit toward a recognized
postsecondary credential aligned with in-demand industry
sectors and occupations in the State;
``(bb) awarding a recognized postsecondary credential that
is used by employers in the State for recruitment, hiring,
retention, or advancement purposes;
``(cc) developing individual employment plans that
incorporate the prior knowledge, skills, competencies, and
experiences of an individual to identify skills related to an
in-demand industry sector or occupation and any upskilling
needed to secure employment in such sector or occupation; and
``(dd) helping individuals communicate their prior
knowledge, skills, competencies, and experiences to
prospective employers through skills-based profiles or
portfolios; and
``(viii) disseminating to local areas information relating
to the assessments identified or developed pursuant to clause
(vii), including--
``(I) any recognized postsecondary credential awarded
through such an assessment;
``(II) the industry organizations, employers, training
providers, and institutions of higher education located
within the State that recognize the prior knowledge, skills,
competencies, and experiences of an individual validated by
such assessments; and
``(III) how such assessments may be provided to, and
accessed by, individuals through the one-stop delivery
system.''.
(2) in paragraph (3)(A)--
(A) in clause (i), by inserting ``or evidence-based'' after
``innovative'';
(B) in clause (ii), by inserting ``, or bringing evidence-
based strategies to scale,'' after ``strategies'';
(C) in clause (iii)--
(i) by inserting ``, and sharing information (in
transparent, linked, open, and interoperable data formats)
about,'' after ``identification of''; and
(ii) by inserting ``and the sharing of information about
such program in transparent, linked, open, and interoperable
data formats'' after ``completion'';
(D) in clause (viii)(II)(dd), by inserting ``, and digital
literacy,'' after ``literacy'';
(E) in clause (xiii), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(F) in clause (xiv), by striking the period and inserting a
semicolon; and
(G) by adding at the end the following:
``(xv) identifying and providing to employers information
relating to best practices on the use of assessments,
including such assessments developed or identified by the
State pursuant to paragraph (2)(B)(vii);
``(xvi) providing technical assistance to employers seeking
to use such assessments for hiring, promotion, or upskilling
of employees;
``(xvii) supporting employers in the State seeking to
implement a practice of hiring individuals based on their
prior knowledge, skills, competencies, and experiences as an
alternative to relying on postsecondary degree requirements
in the hiring process;
``(xviii) conducting surveys of employers within the State,
including employers in emerging sectors, to identify in-
demand skills; and
``(xix) developing partnerships between educational
institutions (including area career and technical education
schools and institutions of higher education) and employers
to create or improve workforce development programs to
address the identified education and skill needs of the
workforce and the employment needs of employers in the
regions of the State, as determined based on the most recent
analysis conducted under subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section
102(b)(1).''.
(b) Required Local Employment and Training Activities.--
Section 134(c) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3174(c)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)(A)--
(A) by inserting ``, shall, to the extent practicable, be
evidence-based'' after ``system'';
(B) by amending clause (iii) to read as follows:
``(iii) initial assessment of skill levels (including
literacy, numeracy, and English language proficiency),
aptitudes, abilities (including skills gaps), and supportive
service needs, and a determination (considering factors
including prior work experience, military service, life
experience, or education history, and in-demand industry
sectors and occupations in the local area) of whether such an
individual would benefit from an assessment identified by the
State pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(B)(vii) to measure the
individual's prior knowledge, skills, competencies, and
experiences to accelerate the individual in obtaining
employment that leads to economic self-sufficiency or career
advancement;'';
(C) in clause (vi)--
(i) by inserting ``and, to the extent practicable, real-
time'' after ``accurate'';
(ii) in subclause (II)--
(I) by inserting ``and credentials'' after ``skills''; and
(II) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(iii) by redesignating subclause (III) as subclause (IV);
(iv) by inserting after subclause (II) the following:
``(III) information on education and skills development
programs that are available for attaining needed skills and
credentials for the jobs described in subclause (I),
including information on the--
``(aa) most accelerated pathways to such skills and
credentials (including information on career pathway programs
in the local area); and
``(bb) quality of such programs, consistent with the
performance information provided under clause (vii); and'';
and
(v) in subclause (IV), as so redesignated--
(I) by inserting ``, which may include information on
resources to support entrepreneurship,'' after ``demand'';
and
(II) by striking ``and'' at the end; and
(D) in clause (xii), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(E) in clause (xiii), by striking the period and inserting
a semicolon; and
(F) by adding at the end the following:
``(xiv) provision of information on employers in the local
areas that are offering employer-sponsored skills development
or on-the-job training programs that may be reimbursed
through an employer-directed skills account established under
section 134(c)(3)(I) and the performance information
available on such programs; and
``(xv) provision of assistance, in coordination with
employers in the local areas that are offering employer-
sponsored skills development or on-the-job training, in
establishing employer-sponsored skills development agreements
or on-the-job training agreements.'';
(2) in paragraph (3)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) in clause (i)--
(I) by inserting ``or (iii)'' after ``clause (ii)''; and
(II) in subclause (II), by inserting ``, or to jobs that
may be performed remotely'' after ``relocate'';
(ii) by redesignating clause (iii) as clause (iv); and
(iii) by inserting after clause (ii) the following:
``(iii) Participants selected for on-the-job training or
employer-sponsored skills development.--A one-stop operator
or one-stop partner shall not be required to conduct an
interview, evaluation, or assessment of a participant under
clause (i) if such participant is selected by an employer
under section 134(c)(3)(I)(i) to receive on-the-job training
or employer-sponsored skills development, and the applicable
conditions under such section are met for such individual to
receive such services.'';
(B) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``evidence-based, to
the extent practicable, may be delivered both in-person or
virtually, and may be'' after ``shall'';
(C) in subparagraph (D)--
(i) by inserting ``shall, to the extent practicable, be
evidence-based and'' after ``services'';
(ii) in clause (x), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(iii) in clause (xi), by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(xii) employer-sponsored skills development programs
conducted with a commitment by an employer to employ an
individual upon successful completion of such a program.'';
(D) in subparagraph (F)--
(i) by redesignating clauses (iv) and (v) as clauses (v)
and (vi), respectively;
(ii) by inserting after clause (iii), the following:
``(iv) Employer-directed skills accounts.--In a case in
which an individual is selected by an employer under section
134(c)(3)(I)(i) to receive on-the-job training or employer-
sponsored skills development, and the applicable conditions
under such section are met for such individual to receive
such services, the one-stop operator involved shall arrange
for payment for such services through an employer-directed
skills account in accordance with section
134(c)(3)(I)(ii).''; and
(iii) in clause (v), as redesignated by subparagraph (A),
by inserting ``or employer-directed skills accounts'' after
``individual training accounts'';
(E) in subparagraph (G)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking ``clause (ii)'' and
inserting ``clauses (ii) and (iii)'';
(ii) in clause (iii), by inserting ``or that may be
performed remotely'' after ``relocate'';
(iii) by redesignating clause (iv) as clause (vi);
(iv) by inserting after clause (iii) the following:
``(iv) Authorized costs.--An individual training account
may provide, in the case of a provider that charges tuition
for a program, the cost of such tuition and nontuition items
(including books, supplies, uniforms, tools, graduation fees,
or licensing or certification exam fees).
``(v) Employer-directed skills accounts.--Services
authorized under this paragraph may be provided pursuant to
an employer-directed skills account in lieu of an individual
training account if such services are employer-sponsored
skills development or on-the-job training and the applicable
conditions under section 134(c)(3)(I)(i) are met for an
individual to receive such services.''; and
(v) in clause (vi), as so redesignated, by inserting ``,
employer-directed skills accounts,'' after ``individual
training accounts''; and
(F) by adding at the end the following:
``(I) Employer-directed skills accounts.--
``(i) In general.--An individual shall receive on-the-job
training or employer-sponsored skills development through the
use of an employer-directed skills account, if each of the
following conditions are met:
``(I) An employer selects the individual, who is not an
employee of such employer, for on-the-job training or
employer-sponsored skills development.
``(II)(aa) In the case of an individual selected under
subclause (I) to receive on-the-job training, an on-the-job
training agreement that meets the requirements of clause
(iii) is established and signed by the individual and the
employer; or
``(bb) in the case of an individual selected under
subclause (I) to receive employer-sponsored skills
development, an employer-sponsored skills development
agreement that meets the requirements of clause (iv) is
established and signed by the individual and the employer.
``(III) The employer submits to the local one-stop operator
each of the following:
``(aa) A certification that the individual requires an on-
the-job training or employer-sponsored skills development
program to obtain employment with the employer, and has the
skills and qualifications to successfully participate in such
a program.
``(bb) A certification that the employer will submit the
necessary performance information to the one-stop operator in
accordance with section 122(h).
``(cc) The on-the-job training agreement or the employer-
sponsored skills development agreement described in subclause
(II), as applicable.
``(IV) The one-stop operator involved reviews and approves
each certification and agreement received under subclause
(III).
``(ii) Payment to employers.--The one-stop operator
involved in on-the-job training or employer-sponsored skills
development under clause (i) shall arrange for the
appropriate payment of such services through an employer-
directed skills account as follows:
``(I) On-the-job training.--For on-the-job training, the
one-stop operator involved shall reimburse the employer from
funds in the employer-directed skills account in accordance
to the reimbursement requirements of section 3(45)(B) and
after receipt of documentation of the wages earned by the
individual during such training.
``(II) Employer-sponsored skills development.--For
employer-sponsored skills development services, the one-stop
operator involved shall reimburse the employer from funds in
the employer-directed skills account for the Federal share of
the costs of the program after receipt of documentation from
the employer of payment of such costs.
``(iii) On-the-job training agreement.--An on-the-job
training agreement under clause (i) shall--
``(I) establish--
``(aa) the length of the on-the-job training;
``(bb) the hourly wage rate of the individual;
``(cc) the skills necessary for the job and the
individual's current skill level as of the date of the
agreement; and
``(dd) the skills to be learned during the on-the-job
training; and
``(II) include an assurance that the employer will provide
the one-stop operator involved with documentation of the
wages earned by the individual while engaged in such on-the-
job training for the purpose of reimbursement to the
employer.
``(iv) Employer-sponsored skills development agreement.--An
employer-sponsored skills development agreement referred to
in clause (i) shall establish--
``(I) the provider of the employer-sponsored skills
development program;
``(II) the length of such program;
``(III) the skills to be learned during such program;
``(IV) a commitment by the employer to employ the
individual upon successful completion of the program;
``(V) the cost of the program; and
``(VI) the amount of such cost that will be paid by the
employer (the non-Federal share), which shall be not less
than the amount specified in section 3(19)(C).''.
(3) Permissible local employment and training activities.--
Section 134(d) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3174(d)) is amended--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A)--
(i) in clause (iii)--
(I) by striking ``not more than 10 percent of the total'';
and
(II) by inserting ``reserved under section 128(a) or''
after ``funds'';
(ii) in clause (vii)--
(I) in subclause (II), by striking ``and'' at the end;
(II) in subclause (III), by inserting ``and'' at the end;
and
(III) by adding at the end the following:
``(IV) to strengthen, through professional development
activities, the knowledge and capacity of staff to use the
latest digital technologies, tools, and evidence-based
strategies to deliver services for jobseekers, workers, and
employers;'';
(iii) in clause (xi), by striking the ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(iv) in clause (xii), by striking the period at the end and
inserting a semicolon; and
(v) by adding at the end the following:
``(xiii) assessments for individuals upon initial
assessment of skills (pursuant to subsection (c)(2)(A)(iii))
or completion of training services or other learning
experiences;
``(xiv) providing technical assistance or other support to
employers seeking to use such assessments for hiring,
promotion, or upskilling of employees;
``(xv) entering into an agreement with a third-party,
nongovernmental entity, to study which occupations are in
high demand in the local area or State; and
``(xvi) the development of partnerships between educational
institutions (including area career and technical education
schools and institutions of higher education) and employers
to create or improve workforce development programs to
address the identified education and skill needs of the
workforce and the employment needs of employers in the
region, as determined based on the most recent analysis
conducted by the local board under section 107(d)(2).''; and
(B) in paragraph (4)(A)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking ``20'' and inserting ``30'';
(ii) by redesignating clauses (ii) and (iii) as clauses
(iii) and (iv), respectively; and
(iii) by inserting after clause (i) the following:
``(ii) Increase in reservation of funds.--The local board
may increase such reservation of funds in clause (i) by--
``(I) substituting `40 percent' for `30 percent', if the
amounts provided by such increase are used to expand work-
based learning opportunities; or
``(II) substituting `50 percent' for `30 percent', if the
local area is experiencing an unemployment rate at or below 3
percent.''.
(4) Related conforming amendments.--The Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.) is
amended--
(A) in section 134(c)(3)(H)(i) (20 U.S.C.
3174(c)(3)(H)(i)), by striking ``section 3(44)'' and by
inserting ``section 3(45)''; and
(B) in section 211(e)(3) (20 U.S.C. 3291(e)(3)), by
striking ``section 3(45)'' and inserting ``section 3(46)''.
SEC. 116. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 136 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3181) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``$820,430,000 for
fiscal year 2015, $883,800,000 for fiscal year 2016,
$902,139,000 for fiscal year 2017, $922,148,000 for fiscal
year 2018, $943,828,000 for fiscal year 2019, and
$963,837,000 for fiscal year 2020'' and inserting
``$1,075,553,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``$766,080,000 for
fiscal year 2015, $825,252,000 for fiscal year 2016,
$842,376,000 for fiscal year 2017, $861,060,000 for fiscal
year 2018, $881,303,000 for fiscal year 2019, and
$899,987,000 for fiscal year 2020'' and inserting
``$899,987,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2028'';
and
(3) in subsection (c), by striking ``$1,222,457,000 for
fiscal year 2015, $1,316,880,000 for fiscal year 2016,
$1,344,205,000 for fiscal year 2017, $1,374,019,000 for
fiscal year 2018, $1,406,322,000 for fiscal year 2019, and
$1,436,137,000 for fiscal year 2020'' and inserting
``$1,436,137,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028''.
``(6) Targeted funding for skills development.--The local
board shall reserve and use not less than 70 percent of the
funds allocated to the local area involved under section
133(b) to provide services described in section
134(c)(3)(F)(iii) and section 122(h).''.
Subtitle C--Job Corps
SEC. 121. JOB CORPS CENTERS.
Section 147(a)(3) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3197(a)(3)) is amended--
(1) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) through (K) as
subparagraphs (F) through (L), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following:
``(E) A statement of current campus policies regarding
procedures and facilities for students and others to report
criminal actions or other emergencies occurring on campus and
policies concerning the institution's response to such
reports.
``(F) A statement of current policies concerning security
and access to campus facilities, including campus residences,
and security considerations used in the maintenance of campus
facilities.
``(G) A statement of current policies concerning law
enforcement, including--
``(i) the working relationship of campus security personnel
with State and local law enforcement agencies, including
whether the center has agreements with such agencies, such as
written memoranda of understanding, for the investigation of
alleged criminal offenses; and
``(ii) policies which encourage accurate and prompt
reporting of all crimes to the appropriate law enforcement
agencies.
``(H) A description of the type and frequency of programs
designed to inform students and employees about campus
security procedures and practices and to encourage students
and employees to be responsible for their own security and
the security of others.''.
SEC. 122. PROGRAM ACTIVITIES.
Section 148(a)(1) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3198(a)(1)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``In general.--Each Job Corps center shall
provide enrollees'' and inserting ``In general.--Each Job
Corps center shall--
``(A) provide enrollees'';
(2) by striking ``literacy.'' and inserting ``literacy;'';
(3) by striking ``Each Job Corps center'' and all that
follows through ``section 134(c)(2)(A).'' and inserting the
following:
``(B) provide enrollees assigned to the center with access
to career services described in clauses (i) through (xi) of
section 134(c)(2)(A); and''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) implement productive activities for enrollees to
participate in, such as tutoring or other skills development
opportunities, outside of regular class times and work hours,
in order to increase supervision of enrollees and reduce
behavioral infractions.''.
SEC. 123. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT.
Section 152(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3202(b)) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(3) In general.--The Secretary shall establish level 1
and level 2 infractions and shall require Directors of Job
Corps Centers to report--
``(A) level 1 infractions--
``(i) within 6 hours of the center being made aware of an
active student or on-duty staff death; and
``(ii) within 24 hours of the center being made aware of
other significant incidents; and
``(B) level 2 infractions quarterly, which shall include
the number and type of such infractions that occurred during
such time period.
``(4) Level 1 infractions.--Level 1 infractions described
in paragraph (3) shall consist of significant infractions and
level 2 incidents described in paragraph (3) shall consist of
minor infractions.''.
SEC. 124. ADVISORY COMMITTEES.
Section 155 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3205) is amended--
(1) by striking ``The Secretary may establish'' and
inserting the following:
``(a) In General.--The Secretary may establish''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Advisory Committee to Improve Enrollee Safety and
Outcomes.--Not later than 6 months following enactment of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022, the
Secretary shall establish an advisory committee to provide
recommendations on evidence-based research, as applicable,
regarding effective strategies to improve enrollee outcomes,
safety, and security, and conditions for enrollee
learning.''.
SEC. 125. EXPERIMENTAL PROJECTS AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.
Section 156(a) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3206(a)) is amended by striking the first
sentence and inserting the following: ``The Secretary may
carry out experimental, research, or demonstration projects
relating to carrying out the Job Corps program, including the
activities authorized under section 156A.''.
SEC. 126. JOB CORPS SCHOLARS ACTIVITIES.
(a) In General.--Subtitle C of title I of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3191 et seq.) is
amended by inserting after section 156 the following:
``SEC. 156A. JOB CORPS SCHOLARS ACTIVITIES.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall issue grants, on a
competitive basis, to eligible entities on an annual basis to
carry out this section.
``(b) Use of Funds.--An eligible entity--
``(1) shall use grant amounts received under this section
to--
``(A) pay for the tuition and fees of Job Corps Scholars
students (as described in subsection (d)) who are accepted
into a covered program;
``(B) provide Job Corps Scholars students who have
successfully completed a covered program and who are not yet
employed, with up to 12 months of employment counseling and
placement services; and
``(C) shall enroll Job Corps Scholars students in cohorts
of approximately 40 students, with up to 2 cohorts permitted
for each eligible entity each year;
``(2) may use grant amounts received under this section
to--
``(A) support the covered program, including--
``(i) hiring up to two personal and career counselors and
up to two employment counselors to provide career counseling
services for Job Corps Scholars students at such entity; and
``(ii) purchasing covered materials and education-related
resources; and
``(B) enroll more than 40 Job Corps Scholars students per
cohort, but must maintain a ratio of 1 counselor for every 20
students enrolled for each cohort, except that no grant funds
may be used to cover the costs of any student over 40 per
cohort; and
``(3) may not use--
``(A) grant amounts received under this section to provide
the staff of such eligible entity with education,
professional development, counseling of any type, or to
subsidize the education or personal counseling of non-Job
Corps Scholars students; and
``(B) more than 2 percent of grant amounts received under
this section for the administrative expenses of carrying out
this section.
``(c) Covered Program.--
``(1) In general.--A covered program under this section
provides to Job Corps Scholars students--
``(A) a 12-month technical education component; and
``(B) up to 12 months of employment counseling and
placement services.
``(2) Duration.--A Job Corps Scholars student may not
participate in a covered program for a period that exceeds a
total of 24 months.
``(3) Completion of covered program.--A Jobs Corps Scholars
student successfully completes the technical education
component of the program if such student--
``(A) earns a recognized postsecondary credential and
academic credit, if academic credit is incorporated into such
credential; and
``(B) completes such program within a period of 12 months.
``(4) Extension.--A Jobs Corps Scholars student may take
longer than 12 months to complete the technical education
component of the program if such student needs additional
time to complete the required developmental education
coursework.
``(5) Recognized postsecondary credential.--An eligible
entity shall not be required to create a recognized
postsecondary credential or modify such credential to receive
a grant under this section
``(d) Job Corps Scholars Student.--
``(1) In general.--To be eligible as a Job Corps Scholars
student under this section, an individual shall--
``(A) be a Job Corps-eligible youth between the age of 16
and 24 who satisfies the admission standards of the eligible
entity receiving a grant under this section;
``(B) abide by all applicable student codes of conduct of
such entity; and
``(C) be subject to the disciplinary policies of such
entity.
``(2) Withdrawal, dismissal, or other termination.--A Job
Corps Scholars student's withdrawal, dismissal, or other
termination of enrollment in the eligible entity will result
in the student's termination from the Job Corps Scholars
activities.
``(3) Job corps standards and procedures.--The Job Corps
standards and procedures described in section 145 shall not
apply to Job Corps Scholars students.
``(e) Reports.--
``(1) Reports from entities.--Each eligible entity awarded
a grant under this section shall submit an annual report to
the Secretary that includes the following:
``(A) The number of Job Corps Scholars students served
through the grant.
``(B) The number and percentage of such students who--
``(i) successfully completed the covered program;
``(ii) withdrew from such program; and
``(iii) obtained--
``(I) employment or career counseling services following
successful completion of such program; and
``(II) unsubsidized employment upon successful program
completion.
``(C) The percentage of program participants who are in
unsubsidized employment during the second and fourth quarters
after exit from such program.
``(D) The median earnings of program participants who are
in unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after
exit from such program.
``(2) Reports to congress.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall submit to Congress
an annual report on the outcomes and effectiveness of the
program, including the information described under the
reports required under paragraph (1).
``(B) Publicly available.--The Secretary shall make each
report required under subparagraph (A) publicly available.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Covered materials and education-related resources.--
The term `covered materials and education-related resources'
means the following:
``(A) Laboratory and workshop fees associated with the
career and technical education program.
``(B) Learning activities.
``(C) Classroom equipment, supplies, and materials
(including books and school supplies) for each Job Corps
Scholars student.
``(D) Student activity fees.
``(E) Parking decals and associated fees.
``(F) Transportation costs to and from home for the
duration of participation in the covered program.
``(G) Meal or food vouchers for the duration of
participation in the covered program.
``(H) Any other costs included in the program's cost of
attendance, such as those described in section 472 of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002).
``(2) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means an
institution of higher education (given the meaning of such
term in section 102(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1002(a)))--
``(A) that operates a covered program; but
``(B) does not include an institution outside the United
States.
``(3) Tuition and fees.--The term `tuition and fees' means
the cost associated with taking each course.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section
1(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 156
the following:
``156A. Job Corps Scholars activities.''.
SEC. 127. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 162 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3212) is amended by striking ``to carry out this
subtitle--'' and all that follows through ``2020.'' and
inserting ``to carry out this subtitle for each of fiscal
years 2023 through 2028.''.
Subtitle D--National Programs
SEC. 131. EVALUATIONS AND RESEARCH.
Section 169 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3224) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (4)--
(i) by redesignating subparagraph (K) as subparagraph (L);
and
(ii) by inserting after subparagraph (J) the following:
``(K) Study on entrepreneurial skills development
programs.--The Secretary shall, through a grant or contract,
conduct a three-year study on entrepreneurial skills
development programs, which shall--
``(i) include a review of--
``(I) successful practices for developing individuals'
entrepreneurial skills;
``(II) evidence-based and other best practices for
entrepreneurial skills development programs;
``(III) qualifications needed for skills development
providers to successfully develop individuals'
entrepreneurial skills;
``(IV) strategies for engaging employers and other private
sector partners in entrepreneurial skills development
programs;
``(V) evidence-based and other best practices for mentoring
potential entrepreneurs;
``(VI) entrepreneurial skills development program outcomes
that correlate with entrepreneurial success;
``(VII) how entrepreneurial skills development programs
successfully measure participants' progress;
``(VIII) the extent to which entrepreneurial skills
development programs lead to industry recognized credentials;
``(IX) the impact, including the economic impact, of
entrepreneurial skills development programs on states and
communities;
``(X) the extent to which entrepreneurial skills
development programs lead to increases in business
development and job creation in states and communities;
``(XI) how entrepreneurial skills development programs
identify potential program participants' readiness for the
program; and
``(XII) average earnings of participants who complete an
entrepreneurial skills development program three years after
completion of such program; and
``(ii) result in recommendations for States and local
communities to expand access to entrepreneurial skills
development programs.''; and
(B) in paragraph (5)(A), by inserting ``which shall include
individuals pursuing entrepreneurship,'' after ``particular
service populations,''; and
(2) in subsection (c), by striking the third sentence and
inserting the following: ``Such projects may include
demonstration and pilot projects relating to promoting self-
employment, promoting entrepreneurship, promoting job
creation (especially for in-demand occupations), averting
dislocations, assisting dislocated farmers, assisting
dislocated fishermen, developing career pathways and
encouraging advancements, and promoting public works.''
SEC. 132. YOUTHBUILD PROGRAM.
Section 171 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3226) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b), by striking paragraph (10) and
redesignating paragraphs (11) and (12) as paragraphs (10) and
(11), respectively;
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (2)(A)(i), by striking ``and registered
apprenticeship'' and inserting ``and apprenticeship'';
(B) in paragraph (3)(B)--
(i) in clause (iii), by striking ``out registered
apprenticeship programs'' and inserting ``out apprenticeship
programs'';
(ii) in clause (xiii), by striking ``established registered
apprenticeship'' and inserting ``established apprenticeship''
(3) in subsection (i), by striking ``to carry out this
section'' and all that follows through ``2020.'' and
inserting ``to carry out this section $99,034,000 for each of
fiscal years 2023 through 2028.''.
SEC. 133. JUSTICE-INVOLVED INDIVIDUALS REENTRY PROGRAM START-
UP GRANTS.
Subtitle D of title I of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3221 et seq.) is amended--
(1) by redesignating section 172 as section 173; and
(2) by inserting after section 171 the following:
``SEC. 172. JUSTICE-INVOLVED INDIVIDUALS REENTRY PROGRAM
START-UP GRANTS.
``(a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to--
``(1) prompt innovation and improvement in the reentry of
justice-involved individuals into the workforce so that
successful initiatives can be continued and replicated; and
``(2) allow for the dissemination of information regarding
best practices in preparing justice-involved individuals for
sustained participation in the workforce.
``(b) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Apprenticeship opportunities.--The term
`apprenticeship opportunities' includes registered
apprenticeship, industry-recognized apprenticeship,
preapprenticeship programs, and other worker-based learning
opportunities.
``(2) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means--
``(A) a private nonprofit organization under section
501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, including a
faith-based organization;
``(B) a local workforce development board;
``(C) a State or local government; or
``(D) an Indian or Native American entity eligible for
grants under section 166.
``(3) Eligible participant.--The term `eligible
participant' means an individual--
``(A) who has been convicted as a juvenile or an adult and
imprisoned under Federal or State law; or
``(B) who has not been released from prison or jail for
more than 2 years before the date on which the individual
begins participation.
``(c) Program Authorized.--
``(1) In general.--In carrying out the activities under
this section, the Secretary shall, on a competitive basis,
award grants for a period of not more than 5 years to
eligible entities to enable such entities to provide job
training, job placement services, and mentoring.
``(2) Priority.--In awarding grants, the Secretary shall
give priority to eligible entities that--
``(A) establish partnerships with business or educational
institutions to provide a program of study leading to
postsecondary credentials in in-demand occupations; or
``(B) provide customized training that is designed to meet
the specific requirements of an employer (including a group
of employers) and is conducted with a commitment by the
employer to employ an individual upon successful completion
of the training.
``(3) Additional grants.--The Secretary may award, for not
longer than a period of 5 years, one or more additional
grants to an eligible entity that received a grant under this
section if the eligible entity--
``(A) demonstrates success in helping eligible participants
reenter the workforce according to the performance indicators
under subsection (g)(1); and
``(B) provides an assurance that the entity will provide a
non-Federal contribution, including cash and in-kind
donations, in an amount not less than 100 percent of the
total funds awarded under the additional grant.
``(d) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this section, an eligible entity shall submit an application
to the Secretary, which shall include the following:
``(1) A detailed description of the program including the
core services they will provide, how the eligible entity will
recruit and select eligible participants for the program, how
many participants they plan on serving each year, and the
length of participation in the program.
``(2) A description of evidence-based or promising
practices the eligible entity will use in the administration
of the program.
``(3) A description of partnerships with local businesses
to provide apprenticeship opportunities, work-based learning,
and job placement and recruitment (if applicable).
``(4) An assurance that the eligible entity will coordinate
activities with workforce development programs and other
services provided under this title, including utilizing the
one-stop delivery system of the local workforce development
areas to provide appropriate services and recruit eligible
individuals to ensure the maximum number of eligible
individuals will have the opportunity to participate in the
program.
``(5) An assurance that the eligible entity will provide a
50-percent match, as described in subsection (e).
``(6) A plan to coordinate with other programs and
entities, including those that may be provided by such other
programs and entities, to provide substance abuse treatment
services, mental health treatment services, housing services,
and transportation services.
``(7) An assurance that the eligible entity will provide
the data necessary for the indicators of performance in
subsection (g).
``(8) A plan to continue the program with non-Federal funds
after the grant period.
``(e) Matching Requirement.--In order to receive a grant
from the Secretary under this section, each eligible entity
shall provide a non-Federal contribution, including cash and
in-kind donations, in an amount not less than 25 percent of
the total funds awarded.
``(f) Use of Funds.--
``(1) In general.--A grant awarded under this section may
be used to--
``(A) provide workforce development and job placement
services to eligible participants, including occupational
skills education, on-the-job training, apprenticeship
opportunities, work experience, job referrals, basic skills
remediation, educational services, work readiness activities,
and post-placement support, in coordination with the one-stop
partners and one-stop operators that provide services at any
center operated under a one-stop deliver system established
under section 121;
``(B) mentor eligible participants, including the provision
of support, guidance, and assistance in the community and the
workplace to address the challenges faced by justice-involved
individuals;
``(C) provide outreach to State or Federal correctional
facilities to increase awareness, identify and recruit
eligible participants, provide screening and assessment of
eligible participants and align educational offerings with
existing services available to individuals who are presently
incarcerated;
``(D) coordinate with employers to develop customized
training programs and agreements around the hiring of
eligible participants; or
``(E) carrying out the activities described in subparagraph
(A), (B), (C), or (D) with respect to eligible participants
who will be released from prison or jail within 90 days.
``(2) Limitations.--
``(A) Certain services excluded.--Funds provided under this
section may not be used to provide substance abuse treatment
services, mental health treatment services, or housing
services, except that such a grant may be used to coordinate
with other programs and entities to provide substance abuse
treatment services, mental health treatment services, or
housing services to eligible participants.
``(B) Administrative cost limit.--A grantee may not use
more than 10 percent of the funds received under a grant for
administrative costs, including for the purpose of collecting
information for purposes of subsection (g)(1).
``(C) Limit on amount paid as stipends to participants.--A
grantee may not use more than 15 percent of the funds
received under such grant to provide stipends to program
participants while completing an educational or skill
development program.
``(g) Performance Outcomes and Accountability.--
``(1) Indicators of performance.--Each eligible entity
receiving a grant under this section shall report each year
to the Secretary on the following indicators of performance
described in section 116(b)(2)(A):
``(A) The percentage of program participants who are in
unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after exit
from the program, as described in clause (i)(I) of such
section or, in case of program participants who are youth,
the percentage of program participants who are in education
or training activities, or in unsubsidized employment during
the second quarter after exit from the program, as described
in clause (ii)(I) of such section.
``(B) The percentage of program participants who are in
unsubsidized employment during the fourth quarter after exit
from the program, as described in clause (i)(II) of such
section or, in case of program participants who are youth,
the percentage of program participants who are in education
or training activities, or in unsubsidized employment during
the fourth quarter after exit from the program, as described
in clause (ii)(II) of such section.
``(C) The median earnings of program participants who are
in unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after
exit from the program, as described in clause (i)(III) of
such section.
``(D) The percentage of program participants who obtain a
recognized postsecondary credential, or a secondary school
diploma or its recognized equivalent, during participation in
or within one year after exit from the program, as described
in clause (i)(IV) of such section.
``(E) The percentage of program participants who, during a
program year, are in an education or training program that
leads to a recognized postsecondary credential or employment
and who are achieving measurable skill gains toward such a
credential or employment, as described in clause (i)(V) of
such section.
``(F) The indicators of effectiveness in serving employers
established pursuant to clause (iv) of such section, as
described in clause (i)(VI) of such section.
``(2) Independent evaluation.--Not later than five years
after the date of enactment of this section and from amounts
made available under section 173(d), the Secretary shall
provide for and report to Congress on an independent
evaluation of the grant program established under this
section that includes an assessment of the effectiveness of
the grant program and the effectiveness of individual
grantees included in the evaluation in reducing recidivism
and assisting individuals in--
``(A) earning credentials;
``(B) finding and maintaining employment; and
``(C) increasing their earnings.
``(3) Report.--The Secretary shall release an annual report
on--
``(A) the number of individuals who participated in
programs assisted under this section;
``(B) the percentage of individuals participating in a
program assisted under this section that successfully
completed the program; and
``(C) the performance of grantees as measured by the
performance indicators set forth in paragraph (1).
``(4) Disseminating best practices.--Using the findings of
the independent evaluation under paragraph (2) the Secretary
shall disseminate information to State and local government,
local workforce development boards, and relevant stakeholders
regarding best practices in providing workforce development
opportunities for justice-involved individuals and reducing
recidivism.
``(h) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall
be construed to authorize any new appropriations to carry out
the purpose of this section.''.
SEC. 134. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 173 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act, as so redesignated, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``of such section)'' and
all that follows through ``2020.'' and inserting ``of such
section) $57,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``carry out section
167'' and all that follows though ``2020.'' and inserting
``carry out section 167 $96,211,000 for each of fiscal years
2023 through 2028.'';
(3) in subsection (c) by striking ``carry out section 168''
and all that follows though ``2020.'' and inserting ``carry
out section 168 $3,524,000 for each of fiscal years 2023
through 2028.''; and
(4) in subsection (d), by striking ``carry out section
169'' and all that follows though ``2020.'' and inserting
``carry out section 169 $106,906,000 for each of fiscal years
2023 through 2028.''.
Subtitle E--Administration
SEC. 137. SECRETARIAL ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITIES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES.
Section 189(i)(3) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3249(i)(3)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (C) by striking ``90'' and inserting
``60''; and
(2) in subparagraph (D) by inserting ``, and make a
determination not later than 30 days after such waiver is
submitted'' after ``appropriate''.
TITLE II--ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY
SEC. 201. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 206 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3275) is amended by striking ``$577,667,000'' and
all that follows through ``2020'' and inserting
``$704,167,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2028''.
SEC. 202. STATE LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES.
Subparagraph (M) of section 223(a)(2) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3303(a)(2)) is
amended by striking the period at the end and inserting ``,
which may include--
``(i) providing guidance on career options in high-skill,
high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations in
current or emerging professions (which may include skilled
trades); and
``(ii) raising public awareness and conducting public
service announcements about career and technical education
programs and community-based organizations, including through
social media campaigns and other endeavors focused on
programs that prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, or
in-demand industry sectors or occupations in current or
emerging professions (which may include skilled trades).''.
SEC. 203. GRANTS AND CONTRACTS FOR ELIGIBLE PROVIDER.
Section 231(a) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3321(a)) is amended by inserting ``, in a
timely manner,'' after ``award''.
TITLE III--GENERAL PROVISIONS
SEC. 301. EXECUTIVE AGENCY REVIEW OF OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING
REQUIREMENTS.
Subtitle A of title V of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3341 et seq.) is amended--
(1) by redesignating section 506 as section 507; and
(2) by inserting after section 505 the following:
``SEC. 506. EXECUTIVE AGENCY REVIEW OF OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING
REQUIREMENTS.
``(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of
2022, and every 2 years thereafter, the Secretary of Labor,
in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, the
Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Defense, the
Secretary of Education, the Secretary of Energy, the
Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of
Homeland Security, the Secretary of Housing and Urban
Development, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of
State, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of
Treasury, shall--
``(1) review any authority, regulation, or policy of, or
Federal law that--
``(A) imposes an occupational licensing requirement with
respect to any position (including any position of a
contractor or subcontractor thereof) at the Executive agency;
or
``(B) is causing a State, local, or tribal government to
adopt an occupational licensing requirement for public and
private sector positions within the State or area
encompassing the jurisdiction of the local or tribal
government;
``(2) identify any changes to such an authority,
regulation, policy, or law that would result in no
requirement or the least restrictive alternative to an
occupation licensing requirement with respect to any such
position while maintaining protection for consumers and other
individuals from significant and demonstrable harm to their
health and safety; and
``(3) submit to the Director of the Office of Management
and Budget, the Assistant to the President for Domestic
Policy, and the Assistant to the President and Director of
Intergovernmental Affairs a report that identifies such
changes.
``(b) Report to President and Congress.--Not later than 30
days after receiving the report under subsection (a)(3), the
Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall--
``(1) submit to the President and to Congress such report;
and
``(2) publish such report in the Federal Register.
``(c) Occupational License Defined.--In this section, the
term `occupational license' means a license, registration, or
certification without which an individual lacks the legal
permission of a State, local, or tribal government to perform
certain defined services for compensation.''.
TITLE IV--AMENDMENTS TO THE WAGNER-PEYSER ACT
SEC. 401. WORKFORCE AND LABOR MARKET INFORMATION SYSTEM.
(a) Employment Service Offices.--Section 3(a) of the
Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49b(a)) is amended by adding at
the end the following: ``States may use a merit staffing
model or a contract staffing model at State public employment
service offices.''
(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 15(g) of the
Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49l-2(g)) is amended by striking
``$60,153,000 for'' and all that follows through ``year
2020.'' and inserting ``$70,667,000 for each of the fiscal
years 2023 through 2028.''.
TITLE V--AMENDMENTS TO THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973
SEC. 501. COMPETITIVE INTEGRATED EMPLOYMENT.
(a) Definition.--Section 7(5) of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973 (29 U.S.C. 705(5)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) by striking ``not including'' and inserting ``including
social and interpersonal interactions with colleagues,
vendors, customers, superiors, or other such persons who the
employee may come into contact with during the work day and
across workplace settings, other than'';
(B) by inserting ``, except that such interactions shall
not be considered solely at the work unit level'' before the
semicolon at the end; and
(C) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in subparagraph (C), by striking the period at the end
and inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) for which an individual may have been paid--
``(i) by a contractor--
``(I) of the Federal Government under a contract with the
Federal Government for which priority was given to the
contractor on the basis of the bid of the contractor
involving supporting employment for individuals with
disabilities; or
``(II) of a State government under a contract with the
State government for which priority was given to the
contractor on the basis of the bid of the contractor
involving supporting employment for individuals with
disabilities;
``(ii) by a subcontractor at any tier of a contractor--
``(I) of the Federal Government under a subcontract for
which priority was given to the subcontractor on the basis of
the bid of the subcontractor involving supporting employment
for individuals with disabilities; or
``(II) of a State government under a subcontract for which
priority was given to the subcontractor on the basis of the
bid of the subcontractor involving supporting employment for
individuals with disabilities; or
``(iii) under a contract mandating direct labor-hour ratio
of individuals with disabilities.''.
(b) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in the amendments made
by subsection (a) shall be construed to reduce the number of
jobs available for referral by a State agency or other
entity.
(c) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that
jobs meeting the definition in section 7(5)(B) of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 705(5)(B)), as amended
in subsection (a), and which derive from Federal or State
contracts managed by community rehabilitation programs for
the purposes of supporting employment for people with
disabilities, shall be eligible to be considered--
(1) part of the competitive labor market; and
(2) an employment outcome for State vocational
rehabilitation purposes.
SEC. 502. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) Vocational Rehabilitation Services.--Section 100(b)(1)
of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720(b)(1)) is
amended--
(1) by striking ``$3,302,053,000'' and inserting
``$3,719,121,000''; and
(2) by striking ``2015 through 2020'' and inserting ``2023
through 2028''.
(b) Client Assistance Program.--Section 112(h) of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 732(h)) is amended to
read as follows:
``(h) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out
the provisions of this section $14,098,000 for each of fiscal
years 2023 through 2028.''.
(c) Research and Training.--Section 201 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 761) is amended to read
as follows:
``SEC. 201. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
title $122,143,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.''.
(d) Training.--Section 302(i) of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973 (29 U.S.C. 772(i)) is amended to read as follows:
``(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section
$39,540,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2028.''.
(e) Demonstration and Training Programs.--Section 303(e) of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 773(e)) is amended
to read as follows:
``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--For the purpose of
carrying out this section there are authorized to be
appropriated $6,809,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.''.
(f) National Council on Disability.--Section 405 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 785) is amended to read
as follows:
``SEC. 405. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
title $3,743,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.''.
(g) Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance
Board.--Section 502(j) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 792(j)) is amended to read as follows:
``(j) There are authorized to be appropriated for the
purpose of carrying out the duties and functions of the
Access Board under this section $9,750,000 for each of fiscal
years 2023 through 2028.''.
(h) Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights.--Section
509(l) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794e(l))
is amended to read as follows:
``(l) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are
authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section
$20,735,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through 2028.''.
(i) Supported Employment.--Section 610 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 795o) is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 610. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
title $32,363,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.''.
(j) Independent Living Services.--Section 714 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796e-3) is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 714. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
part $26,877,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.''.
(k) Centers for Independent Living.--Section 727 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796f-6) is amended to
read as follows:
``SEC. 727. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
part $91,992,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.''.
(l) Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who
Are Blind.--Section 753 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 7696l) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 753. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
chapter $39,141,000 for each of fiscal years 2023 through
2028.''.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1119, the
gentlewoman from Iowa (Mrs. Miller-Meeks) and a Member opposed each
will control 5 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Iowa.
Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may
consume.
Madam Speaker, following the pandemic, the Nation's workforce needs
have drastically changed, and we need a workforce development system
that helps prepare American workers for the job opportunities of today
and tomorrow, not those of the past.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act is intended to help
unemployed and underemployed workers get the necessary skills to
succeed in America's modern economy.
Unfortunately, the majority's proposed reauthorization lacks the
necessary reforms to help America's workers.
Our Republican proposal, on the other hand, would modernize the
program to make sure it is employer-driven, which will help America's
economy become stronger for decades to come.
Our plan puts taxpayer dollars to work where they need it most:
helping jobseekers get the skills they need to close the skills gap and
get back to work.
{time} 1545
It does this by bringing more competition into the provider
marketplace, which expands the pool of skills development providers
that meet employers' needs and gives more choice to American workers,
ensuring States and localities can use WIOA funds to survey employers
to get a better understanding of the skills that are most in demand and
respond accordingly.
Additionally, the Republican proposal adapts WIOA to the changing
economic landscape. America has just come through a pandemic. During
that time, businesses, employers, and workers shifted to remote work
and changing circumstances. Our skills development and education
programs should adapt to changing circumstances as well. Our plan
encourages workforce boards to provide services virtually, which
streamlines WIOA and eliminates administrative costs and overhead.
Republicans also ensure online skills development providers can be
included in skills development services, expanding the number of
providers who can address the needs that American workers face.
The Republican alternative also levels the playing field and
encourages innovation by ensuring that WIOA does not favor registered
apprenticeships over more innovative apprenticeship models that can
address the needs of more employers. This will keep America's labor
force at the cutting edge of global competition.
Competition drives better results. Through pay-for-performance
funding, our substitute encourages programs with a proven track record
of successfully helping American workers succeed. Our proposal measures
programs based on real outcomes and gives States and localities more
flexibility in how they can improve those outcomes.
We also increase transparency by making the process for creating job
performance metrics available to the American public.
Finally, the Republican plan brings greater accountability to the
Department of Labor's Job Corps program and its Reentry Employment
Opportunities program.
Let's start with Job Corps. Job Corps is a popular program, and for
many students, Job Corps is their last hope. There are important
reforms we can enact to ensure that Job Corps is working better for
students who need it most. Our bill would help Job Corps-eligible
students get technical and career education from community colleges,
which would give this program much-needed innovation and better
outcomes.
The Job Corps program in Ottumwa, Iowa, in my district, is a
wonderful example of how to do exactly this and is the right way to
perform that program.
It would also do more to keep Job Corps participants safe. Centers
would be required to report whenever any concerning incidents occur,
ensuring proper oversight of this program.
We also bring greater accountability to the Reentry Employment
Opportunities program so we can build on President Trump's historic
criminal justice reform and use this program to help formerly
incarcerated Americans establish firm economic foundations for their
new lives.
These are commonsense reforms that will help American employers and
jobseekers. I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I claim the time in opposition
to the amendment.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman from Virginia is recognized
for 5 minutes.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my
time.
Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I yield 30 seconds to the
gentlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. Foxx).
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague from Iowa (Mrs. Miller-
Meeks) for her great work on this committee and for bringing forth this
amendment. It is an excellent amendment, and I support it.
We need to do everything we can to improve the workforce development
programs in our country.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my
time.
Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my
time.
Madam Speaker, we have had an opportunity to work together on WIOA,
but unfortunately, my colleagues in the majority are more concerned
about maintaining the status quo and placating favored stakeholders.
What American workers and employers need is a workforce system that
prioritizes them over special interests, and the Republican alternative
would do that.
I urge my colleagues to help us pass an alternative proposal that
works for America, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of
my time.
Madam Speaker, we are here today to modernize and reauthorize the
Nation's premier job training program to help jobseekers and workers
connect with well-paying jobs and career pathways.
Although the substitute offered by our colleagues does not meet the
urgent needs to strengthen the programs, I do want to make it clear
that we welcome the opportunity to have further discussion as the bill
heads toward the Senate. My goal is to forge common ground wherever we
can, and I am hoping that this can be the beginning, not the end, of
the conversation.
The Republican substitute reauthorizes funding for the formula
programs, regrettably, at roughly the same levels as we have today. The
status quo is not working. As a result, the substitute will not provide
the level of intensive training needed to move people into higher wage
jobs.
The average amount the adult formula program spends per participant
today is about $2,000, not nearly enough to provide quality job
training to lead to good jobs with competitive wages, benefits, and
other hallmarks of job quality. The Republican substitute continues the
unacceptable status quo with respect to underinvestment in training.
To meet the moment, the underlying bill also codifies SECTOR grants,
which are demonstrated to be effective in training workers for jobs in
high-demand sectors.
The gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur) talked about electric cars. We
need a lot of training in that area, but regrettably, the substitute
omits the SECTOR grants.
Our committee meetings held last year highlighted bipartisan support
for reentry programs for justice-involved individuals. In response, the
bill codifies the program at the Department of Labor and commits $250
million for fiscal year 2023, more than double the amount appropriated
this year, and provides stable funding amounting to $2.3 billion over 6
years.
With 600,000 individuals released from our prisons and jails each
year, close to half of them experiencing repeat contact with the
criminal justice system within a year, funding levels in the substitute
do not come close to meeting the critical needs to invest in services
to help these individuals obtain and retain employment.
We also reject the requirement of the substitute for non-Federal
match to receive a grant. This matching requirement is not part of the
existing grant program and would exclude many grassroots organizations
that are best positioned to meet the needs of justice-involved
individuals in our communities.
When we provide subsidies to employers in the form of on-the-job
training or customized training, we also need to make sure that it is
matched by job quality.
The Republican substitute, regrettably, leaves too many disconnected
youth behind.
To help our youth, whether in school or not, gain life skills, the
bill invests almost $1 billion in fiscal year 2023 for summer and year-
round youth employment opportunities. The evidence is abundant that
these youth employment opportunities increase lifelong earnings and
reduce engagement in the criminal justice system.
The Republican substitute also fails to meet the moment and address
the needs of the workers in the 21st century, so I urge a ``no'' vote
on this amendment.
In the remaining time, Madam Speaker, I would like to thank members
of my staff on the Committee of Education and Labor. They worked hard
on this legislation, starting with Kevin McDermott, Scott Estrada,
Lorin Obler, Phoebe Ball, Danyelle Honore, Jessica Schieder, and former
staff members Richard Miller and Katie McClelland.
Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to House Resolution 1119, the
previous question is ordered on the amendment offered by the
gentlewoman from Iowa (Mrs. Miller-Meeks).
The question is on the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Iowa
(Mrs. Miller-Meeks).
The question was taken; and the Speaker pro tempore announced that
the noes appeared to have it.
Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to section 3(s) of House Resolution
8, the yeas and nays are ordered.
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this question
are postponed.
Pursuant to clause 1(c) of rule XIX, further consideration of H.R.
7309 is postponed.
____________________
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