S. 4382: Workforce Data Enhancement Act

The Workforce Data Enhancement Act proposes amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to create a new grant program aimed at improving workforce data quality across the United States. Here’s what the bill outlines:

Purpose of the Grant Program

The grant program is designed to help state agencies and collaborations develop and enhance statewide longitudinal data systems. These systems will integrate data from various sources, including education, workforce development, and labor market outcomes, to:

• Strengthen the quality of programs.
• Build state capacity for data-driven decision-making.
• Promote individual privacy and data security.
• Improve transparency and standardization of data regarding skills and workforce needs.

Eligible Entities

Eligible entities for these grants include:

• State agencies or coalitions of state agencies.
• Organizations that manage state wage records for unemployment insurance reporting.
• Entities involved in producing labor market information.

Grant Application Process

To apply for the grant, entities must submit a detailed application, which includes:

• A description of activities planned with the grant, including a needs assessment and budget.
• Expected outcomes and benefits from the proposed activities.
• Strategies for reporting performance data and improving data standards.
• Plans to secure individual privacy and data protection.
• Information on how activities will continue after the grant funding ends.

Prioritization Criteria

In deciding which applications receive funding, the Secretary will prioritize:

• Consortia of state agencies from multiple states, especially those that include agencies that haven’t previously received such grants.
• Proposals that enhance data collection and partnerships with private sector entities.

Allowed Uses of Funds

Grant funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Supporting data linkages between education and workforce systems.
• Improving research and labor market data quality and accessibility.
• Establishing interoperable records for learning and employment.
• Developing policies and protocols for data protection and usage.
• Enhancing the capacity of state and local staff to analyze and use data effectively.

Duration and Reporting

Grants will last up to three years, and each awarded entity must submit a report after the grant period detailing the activities conducted and improvements made to workforce information systems.

Definitions

The term statewide longitudinal data systems is defined as per existing legislation, emphasizing their importance in tracking educational outcomes and labor market performance over time.

Relevant Companies

None found