H.R. 3681: Leveraging Educational Opportunity Networks Act

This bill, titled the Leveraging Educational Opportunity Networks Act, aims to create and fund workforce training programs through grants awarded by the Secretary of Labor. Here are the main features of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The goal of the bill is to enhance job training opportunities for workers, particularly those who do not hold a college degree, by providing funding for programs that respond to the needs of the job market. It supports a significant shift towards short-term, high-quality workforce training approaches that can help participants secure employment in high-demand fields.

Key Findings

• Approximately 60% of workers in the U.S. lack a four-year college degree and many have gained skills through alternative training programs.
• There is a growing demand for short-term workforce training, with many individuals seeking education that is directly relevant to their employment needs.
• The U.S. faces a labor shortage, with a significant number of job openings and a decreasing number of individuals available for work.
• A large portion of the workforce earns low wages, with a significant number living below the poverty line.

Establishment of Grant Program

The Secretary of Labor will award these grants competitively to eligible entities, which can include:

• Nonprofit organizations.
• National training organizations with members across at least 10 states.
• Accredited institutions that specialize in career and technical education.

Use of Funds

Entities receiving grants will use the funds for various purposes, including:

• Creating and implementing career and technical education programs tailored to local job demands.
• Providing supportive services to enrollees, such as tutoring and life coaching.
• Offering stipends to assist enrollees during their training.
• Partnering with local employers to help ensure job placements after training.
• Conducting analyses of job market needs and preparing participants with the necessary skills for available jobs.

Program Requirements

Programs developed under this bill must:

• Be at least 12 weeks long.
• Provide participants with recognized post-secondary credentials upon completion.
• Pay a living wage to enrollees during training.
• Focus on underserved populations, including low-income individuals and former offenders.

Report and Accountability

Eligible entities must submit annual reports to the Secretary of Labor detailing:

• The earnings of enrollees before and after completing programs.
• The employment rate of participants after completion.
• The percentage of participants obtaining credentials and their starting wages.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes $30 million annually from 2026 through 2029 to support these activities.

Relevant Companies

• None found