Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
| 15 Apr 2026 | |
| Written by John Colborn | |
| Advocacy Resources |
A Stronger Workforce for America Act of 2026 (ASWA26), was introduced on April 3, 2026 by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), Chairman of the Committee on Education and the Workforce. Unlike the 2024 version, which was a bipartisan, bicameral compromise, ASWA26 reflects House Republican priorities under the current administration. The bill reauthorizes the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
The bill authorizes flat funding for the nation’s workforce system for fiscal years 2027 through 2032 at the following levels: Youth Workforce Investment Activities at $948,130,000 per year; Adult Employment and Training Activities at $875,649,000 per year; and Dislocated Worker Employment and Training Activities at $1,31,412,000 per year.
The bill mandates higher levels of spending on training – with some changes in the formula for how the minimum spending is determined. Specifically, local areas must spend not less than 50% of adult and dislocated worker formula funds on training services (with an allowance to reduce this floor by up to 10 percentage points if funds are used for supportive services that enable participation in training). The bill allows states additional flexibility in funding allocations and in the designation of local workforce areas.
If passed, apprenticeship would have a much higher profile in the public workforce system, with provisions for apprenticeship as an allowable and even mandated activity under numerous sections.
A full analysis of the bill and its implications for apprenticeship appears at this link.
