H.R.1132 - To amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to direct the Secretary of Labor to award grants to community colleges for high-quality workforce development programs. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1132 proposes to amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, directing the Secretary of Labor to award grants to community colleges for high-quality workforce development programs. The bill authorizes appropriations of $65,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2031. These grants aim to establish, improve, or expand workforce development programs at community colleges.
The bill emphasizes partnerships between community colleges and employers in in-demand industry sectors. It also focuses on expanding opportunities for individuals to obtain recognized postsecondary credentials.
The bill outlines specific requirements for grant applications, including descriptions of partnerships with employers, methods for engaging with employers, and the alignment of activities with state and local workforce strategies. It also includes provisions for performance reviews, evaluations, and reporting on the effectiveness of the grant program.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.1132 would increase funding for workforce development programs at community colleges. This would likely lead to an expansion of training opportunities for individuals seeking skills in high-demand industries.
The increased focus on partnerships between educational institutions and employers could result in better alignment of training programs with industry needs. This could lead to improved employment outcomes for program participants.
The bill's emphasis on data collection and performance evaluation could also lead to more effective and accountable workforce development programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to workforce development programs at community colleges.
- Improved alignment of training programs with the needs of employers in in-demand industries.
- Enhanced opportunities for individuals to obtain recognized postsecondary credentials.
- Potential for improved employment outcomes for program participants.
- Greater accountability and effectiveness of workforce development programs through performance evaluations and reporting.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill's reliance on appropriated funds means that the actual funding level may vary depending on budgetary constraints.
- The administrative costs associated with the grant program could reduce the amount of funding available for direct program activities.
- The focus on specific industries may neglect other important sectors of the economy.
- The performance metrics used to evaluate the success of the program may not fully capture the long-term benefits of workforce development.
- There is a potential for the funds to be mismanaged or used inefficiently if proper oversight is not maintained.
Constitutional Alignment
H.R.1132 aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution (Preamble), which empowers Congress to "promote the general Welfare." By investing in workforce development programs, the bill seeks to improve the economic well-being of individuals and communities.
Furthermore, Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes to provide for the general welfare of the United States. The appropriation of funds for this grant program falls under this enumerated power.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).