Leveraging Educational Opportunity Networks Act

This legislation directs the Secretary of Labor to establish a competitive grant program to fund the development and implementation of workforce training programs. These grants will be awarded to eligible consortia, comprising non-profit organizations, national training organizations, accredited institutions (excluding traditional higher education), or post-secondary career and technical networks, with a focus on geographic diversity. The funded programs must be at least 12 weeks long, lead to a recognized post-secondary credential, and operate in at least 10 states, while paying enrollees a living wage . They must prioritize individuals reading at no higher than a 6th-grade level, with at least 50 percent of participants from underserved populations, including offenders, low-income individuals, and those from historically disadvantaged communities. Grant funds are primarily for career and technical education and need-based stipends, alongside pre-training support and supportive services. Eligible entities must partner with employers who pay a living wage, offer career growth, and actively engage in the training process. The Secretary will prioritize applications focusing on high-demand industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. Grantees are required to report on enrollee earnings, employment rates, and credential attainment. The bill authorizes $30,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2029.