WIOA Update: Responding to the Senates Questions
In a recent Senate hearing, Dr. Lisa Bly-Jones, CEO of the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), provided insightful testimony on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and its critical role in addressing the needs of the modern workforce. Since the hearing, she was asked to submit a response to a few questions the Senators had. Responding to questions from Senators Lujan, Hassan, and Smith, Dr. Bly-Jones highlighted the importance of dedicated funding, performance accountability, and supportive services.
Dr. Bly-Jones emphasized the need for WIOA reauthorization to include funding for targeted industry and sector partnerships. While WIOA supports industry partnerships, she noted that more dedicated funding is needed to maintain their effectiveness. Dr. Bly-Jones advocated for a reauthorization that mirrors the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act, establishing state-level digital skills training programs and addressing digital equity, which is crucial for adapting to technological advancements in the workforce.
Addressing concerns about WIOA’s performance reporting requirements, Dr. Bly-Jones acknowledged the challenge of balancing accountability with non burdensome reporting. She suggested expanding performance indicators to measure long-term economic gains, including quality credential attainment and job quality metrics, disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and other demographic factors. This data is essential for advocating workforce equity and measuring programmatic progress.
Dr. Bly-Jones also highlighted the significance of supportive services in helping individuals overcome systemic barriers to employment. She argued against limiting WIOA funds for supportive services, noting their importance in addressing childcare, transportation, and mental health challenges. Expanding these services beyond probationary employment periods, as suggested in the BUILDS Act, can provide the necessary support for individuals to transition successfully into stable employment.
These responses were submitted last week, and we look forward to hearing back from the Senate and seeing how WIOA will proceed in the reauthorization process.
