This bill, known as the Lifelong Learning Act, amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to provide greater flexibility and accountability in workforce development programs. It increases the maximum percentage of funds that states can reserve for incumbent worker training programs from 20% to 30%, and for transitional jobs from 10% to 15%. This adjustment aims to give states more discretion in allocating resources to upskill existing workers and support individuals transitioning into new employment opportunities. Furthermore, the legislation introduces a new requirement for states to report on the performance outcomes of incumbent worker training programs. This crucial data will be utilized by the State, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Education to adapt and refine performance levels for adult and dislocated worker programs, ensuring continuous improvement and effectiveness. A significant provision also expands the flexibility of one-stop operators by allowing local boards to directly fulfill this role, subject to approval from the chief elected official and Governor, and adherence to robust conflict-of-interest policies.
Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Lifelong Learning Act
USA119th CongressHR-10085| House
| Updated: 8/13/2026
This bill, known as the Lifelong Learning Act, amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to provide greater flexibility and accountability in workforce development programs. It increases the maximum percentage of funds that states can reserve for incumbent worker training programs from 20% to 30%, and for transitional jobs from 10% to 15%. This adjustment aims to give states more discretion in allocating resources to upskill existing workers and support individuals transitioning into new employment opportunities. Furthermore, the legislation introduces a new requirement for states to report on the performance outcomes of incumbent worker training programs. This crucial data will be utilized by the State, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Education to adapt and refine performance levels for adult and dislocated worker programs, ensuring continuous improvement and effectiveness. A significant provision also expands the flexibility of one-stop operators by allowing local boards to directly fulfill this role, subject to approval from the chief elected official and Governor, and adherence to robust conflict-of-interest policies.