The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) supersedes the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) and the Wagner-Peyser Act. The WIA reformed federal job training programs and created a new, comprehensive workforce investment system. The program gives each state three block grants targeting adult employment and job training, disadvantaged youth employment and training, and adult education and literacy programs. The federal government retains oversight, reviews state programs, and rejects those state programs that do not meet the Act's standards.
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Download Now The WIA requires that each state establish a state partnership made up of the state's governor; his or her representatives, and representatives of business, labor, youth activity organizations, vocation and adult education, state agency officials, and state legislators. The partnership must develop a detailed 3-year plan for submission to the federal secretary of labor, which must describe how the state will spend the funds for adults, dislocated workers, and youth.
Each state must establish a one-stop training system with at least one center in each local area that provides core services, including determination of eligibility, outreach, intake and orientation, skill level assessment, case management assistance, job search and placement, and information regarding job opportunities and the performance of local providers.
Employers that train workers through this system are eligible for grants, significant tax credits, and other benefits. Information on the federal WIA is available.
The Department of Commerce/Office of Workforce Development administers and enforces job training programs.