Since 2014, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) has supported job seekers in their pursuit of career success and connected employers with the skilled talent they need to compete. With reauthorization on the horizon, it’s important to understand how changes to WIOA can have an impact on workforce development, job seekers, employers, and the economy.
A quick overview of WIOA
WIOA was designed to make the workforce development system more responsive to the needs of job seekers and employers. It highlights the importance of:
Integrated Service Delivery: Coordinating services across various programs provides a seamless experience for job seekers.
Employer Engagement: Aligning workforce development programs to the needs of local and regional employers.
Accountability and Performance: Using performance metrics to ensure programs are effective and outcomes are measurable.
Access and Inclusion: Expanding access to workforce development services for underserved populations, including individuals with disabilities, veterans, and those with barriers to employment.
A few reasons why reauthorization is important
1. Continued Funding: Workforce development programs get the federal funding they need to continue supporting job seekers and employers.
2. Policy Updates: By including new policies and best practices, WOIA can remain relevant and effective.
3. Program Improvements: Existing programs can be refined and improved based on feedback and performance data.
What are the key focus areas for reauthorization?
As policymakers consider reauthorizing WIOA, there are several areas of focus, including:1. Digital Literacy and Skills Training: As digital skills continue to become more important, digital literacy and advanced technology training programs are key. With the increasing importance of digital skills in the modern workforce, there is a need for programs that provide digital literacy and advanced technology training.
2. Equity and Inclusion: Ensuring workforce development programs are accessible to all individuals, particularly those from underserved communities, will be a priority.
3. Employer Partnerships: Stronger employer partnerships can help ensure training programs continue to meet the needs of the labor market now and in the future.
4. Performance Metrics: Enhanced performance measurement systems can offer insights and ensure programs deliver clear results.
What it means for job seekers and employers
Both employers and job seekers can benefit from the reauthorization of WIOA. With relevant updates to a wide range of services, including job training, career counseling, and support services, job seekers will be in a better position to succeed in today’s job market. A more skilled and prepared workforce also means that employers can find the qualified candidates they need quickly and efficiently.
What’s included in the Senate’s discussion draft?
The Senate released a discussion draft proposing updates and changes to WIOA.
No Training Mandate
The Senate’s discussion draft takes a big step forward and offers more flexibility by eliminating mandated spending on training services.
Re-designation of Local Areas
The Senate’s draft gives states the flexibility to restructure local workforce development areas (LWDAs) more effectively.
Statewide Funding Reservations
The Senate draft allows states to set aside an additional 10% of WIOA Title I funding for Industry/Sectoral Partnership efforts or employer-based training activities.
Funding and Formula Stream
Instead of proposing specific funding levels, the Senate draft uses the phrase “such sums as may be necessary.” This approach offers greater freedom when it comes to determining funding for WIOA programs. The draft also includes a new formula funding stream, exclusively for Individual Training Accounts, that’s funded by H-1B visa fees.
Other key areas we’re keeping an eye on
Accountability Measures
The rules governing state performance accountability measures for training and certification programs, including on-the-job training programs, employer-directed skills development, incumbent worker training, and apprenticeships.
Evidence-Based Programs
Designed to meet the needs of local communities and employers and ensure the one-stop delivery system is better coordinated across the state.
Grant Funding
More availability for grant funding to establish and implement apprenticeships, work-based learning, and on-the-job training programs using non-profit and industry partnerships.
Dislocated Workers
Enhanced support for training programs geared toward job seekers who have been displaced due to advances in artificial intelligence and other automation tools.
Pilot Program for Youth Workforce
The State Flexibility Pilot Program will focus on finding the best strategies for innovative skills development programs, job training programs, pre-apprenticeship programs, and stronger industry or sector partnerships.
Reporting Requirements
Programs receiving support from workforce boards will have increased reporting requirements to ensure that data is driving the adoption process.
What’s next? Keep up with the reauthorization updates
By investing in workforce development, we’re creating a more inclusive, skilled, and adaptable workforce for years to come. The reauthorization of WIOA is a vital step toward keeping the United States competitive in the global economy – and it’s important to stay informed on the latest updates as the process moves forward.We’re here to help
If you have questions about federal, state, or local funding, or if you would like to discuss how CompTIA can support your grant requirements, you can schedule some time to chat with Robert Owens, Director of Funding, here.
