H.R.291 - Creating Access to Rural Employment and Education for Resilience and Success Act; CAREERS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 291, also known as the CAREERS Act, aims to amend the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Grant Program under the Department of Agriculture. The bill seeks to enhance workforce training programs in rural areas by expanding eligibility criteria and incorporating career pathway programs and industry or sector partnerships. It emphasizes skills development initiatives to stimulate innovation and economic development in rural regions.
Expected Effects
The CAREERS Act is likely to increase access to workforce training and educational opportunities in rural communities. This will be achieved by aligning training programs with the needs of local industries and promoting collaboration between educational institutions and workforce development boards. The Act also broadens the scope of eligible industries to include telecommunications, healthcare, and agribusiness, potentially leading to more targeted and effective training initiatives.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Job Opportunities: By focusing on in-demand industries, the Act can create more job opportunities for rural residents.
- Enhanced Skills Development: The emphasis on career pathway programs and industry partnerships will lead to better skills development.
- Economic Growth in Rural Areas: The Act aims to stimulate innovation and enhance economic development in rural regions.
- Improved Access to Education: The Act expands access to higher education and technical schools for rural residents.
- Support for Key Industries: The Act supports critical sectors like telecommunications, healthcare, and agribusiness.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Inefficient Spending: There is a risk that funds may not be allocated efficiently, leading to limited impact.
- Administrative Burden: Implementing and managing the expanded grant program could create an administrative burden for the Department of Agriculture.
- Limited Scope: The Act focuses specifically on rural areas, potentially neglecting workforce development needs in other regions.
- Dependence on Local Workforce Boards: The success of the program relies on the effectiveness of local workforce development boards, which may vary.
- Delayed Implementation: The effective date is contingent on the Secretary of Agriculture's determination, potentially causing delays.
Constitutional Alignment
The CAREERS Act aligns with the spirit of the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the US Constitution, which empowers Congress to provide for the general welfare of the United States. By promoting economic development and workforce training in rural areas, the Act aims to improve the well-being of citizens and strengthen communities. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).