WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) introduced legislation that would improve data sharing within the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). WIOA provides job training for unemployed Americans and helps people climb the ladder of economic opportunity. Since the WIOA’s reauthorization in 2014, the American workforce has drastically changed. Under the current system, states must report metrics about the success of the program to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Currently, it is unclear which entities (state, local, or providers) are responsible for data collection, resulting in an unclear picture of both the effectiveness of the program and the American workforce. Senator Tuberville’s Workforce DATA Act would clarify responsibilities of data collection, increase participation standards, help businesses hire skilled workers, and make sure that taxpayers get the best return on their investment.
“Since I got to Washington, workforce development has been one of my top priorities,” said Senator Tuberville. “We need to make sure our workforce is able to keep up with the rapidly changing technology landscape. Unfortunately, due to bad reporting standards, it is unclear how many people are taking advantage of these programs. By improving reporting standards, we can make sure as many Americans are getting workforce training and finding meaningful employment as possible, while protecting taxpayers from waste.”
The United States Workforce Associations endorsed the legislation.
Text of the bill may be found here.
BACKGROUND:
Sen. Tuberville believes that workforce development is a critical part of unlocking human potential and spurring economic growth. As a former coach and educator for 40 years, he is committed to promoting and investing in educational programs that will open up the doors of opportunity and equip Alabamians with the skills they need to succeed in 21st-century jobs.
READ MORE:
Tuberville Joins Tim Scott, Colleagues to Protect Workers and Small Business Owners
Tuberville: “We Need to Train Kids for the Future Workforce”
Tuberville Joins Legislation to Expand Access to CDL Programs for Veterans
Tuberville: Workforce Development Important for Pandemic Recovery
