H.R. 7585: Investing in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act of 2026

This bill is titled the Investing in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act of 2026 and aims to address the challenges faced by workers in industries that are likely to be affected by advancements in technology, particularly automation. The bill includes several key components:

Funding and Grant Provisions

The bill authorizes the Secretary of Labor to award grants to eligible partnerships for demonstration and pilot projects that focus on training needs for workers at risk of becoming dislocated due to automation. These grants are to:

• Support training programs aimed at helping workers transition into in-demand sectors.
• Last for a maximum of four years.

Through a competitive application process, eligible partnerships can receive financial support to provide training that includes:

• Technology-based skills training.
• Plans to collaborate with local businesses to retrain workers and reduce layoffs.
• Support services for individuals from underserved communities.

Focus on Dislocated Workers

The bill highlights a focus on populations that may face barriers to employment, including women, people of color, and low-income workers, acknowledging that these groups may suffer disproportionately from job losses due to automation. It aims to ensure that these communities have access to the necessary training services.

Training Services Requirements

Grant funds must be utilized for various services, including:

• Providing direct training services.
• Assisting employers in developing training-related positions.
• Purchasing necessary equipment for training.
• Job search assistance for displaced workers.
• Providing stipends to support individuals during their training.

Priority Considerations

When awarding grants, priority will be given to partnerships in regions with higher concentrations of individuals facing employment barriers, as well as those located in areas where industries are more likely to be affected by automation. Partnerships providing incumbent worker training, which assists workers in retaining employment or transitioning to new roles within the same company, will also be prioritized.

Reporting Requirements

Partnerships receiving grants must submit reports detailing the outcomes of their training initiatives. This includes data on:

• The number of workers trained and who transitioned into new jobs.
• Follow-up statistics regarding employment and education after completion of training.
• Best practices that emerged from their training programs.

General Provisions

Funds must be used in accordance with established labor standards and protections. The bill authorizes appropriations for the years 2027 through 2031, indicating a long-term commitment to workforce development amid rapid technological advancements.

Amendments to Existing Laws

The bill amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to explicitly include training for individuals likely to become dislocated workers due to automation advancements. The amendments also expand the scope of national dislocated worker grants to address issues specifically arising from changes in automation technology.

Relevant Companies

• MSFT - Microsoft Corporation: As a major player in automation and technology, any policies incentivizing workforce retraining could impact Microsoft's labor supply and demand dynamics.
• GOOGL - Alphabet Inc.: As an innovator in automation technologies and AI, changes in workforce capabilities can affect how companies like Alphabet scale their operations.
• IBM - International Business Machines Corporation: Similar to Microsoft, the emphasis on digital skills could enhance the demand for IBM’s training solutions and professional services.
• ORCL - Oracle Corporation: With Oracle’s investments in cloud technology and automation, workforce retraining policies may directly influence their ability to recruit skilled labor.