WASHINGTON – Today, the Education and the Workforce Committee advanced two bills to help students learn and workers succeed: H.R. 6585, Bipartisan Workforce Pell Act and H.R. 6655, A Stronger Workforce for America Act.
On the passage of the bills, Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) said: “Today’s legislative package reflects our commitment to aligning the priorities of education and the workforce. To that end, we must continue to advocate for policies that develop vital workforce programs and help Americans move into in-demand jobs more quickly. I believe the measures passed today achieve this goal and ensure students and working Americans have the skills necessary for a changing economy.”
Helps students participate in short-term programs to move into a job quickly.
Creates a quality assurance system for Workforce Pell Grant programs—allowing any institution of higher education to participate as long as they meet all the requirements.
Ensures all programs provide education aligned with requirements of in-demand industries, meet employers' hiring requirements, and provide students with relevant skills necessary for employment.
Upgrades the skills of the American workforce by dedicating 50 percent of the adult and dislocated worker funding towards upskilling workers.
Creates an emphasis on employer-led initiatives that equip workers with the skill sets to fill jobs in critical industries and help the currently employed workforce upskill to avoid displacement and advance their careers.
Ensures workers displaced from their jobs through no fault of their own can access robust skill development services, including through “individual training accounts.”
