Citizens for Responsible Education Reform

Job Training (H.R. 1385)

Employment, Training and Literacy
Enhancement Act of 1997

Issue Description

The Employment, Training and Literacy Enhancement Act of 1997 was introduced and passed by the House as an important first step in reforming this Nation's duplicative and fragmented employment, training and literacy programs. The bill would help states and local communities make sense out of the current confusing array of programs - consolidating over 60 federal programs through the establishment of three block grants to states and localities for the provision of such services, and by amending the Rehabilitation Act. H.R. 1385 is based upon many positive reforms that are already underway in states and local communities.

FOR YOUTH, the bill amends JTPA's current disadvantaged youth programs - increasing the focus of such programs on longer-term academic and occupational training, rather than short-term employment fixes. FOR ADULTS, the bill establishes a single delivery system for adult employment and training, that maximizes individual choice in the selection of occupations and training providers. In addition, it encourages an "employment first" approach to job training that will greatly complement our efforts in welfare reform - where individuals purchase training services through the use of vouchers. The bill amends the current Adult Education Act by consolidating existing adult education and family literacy programs into flexible block grants to states, and establishing linkages to the employment and training system. The bill extends the authorization for vocational rehabilitation programs through the year 2000, allowing the 106th Congress to comprehensively review the Rehabilitation Act.

CRER Analysis and Position

CRER supports giving states more flexibility to administer job training programs. The bill allows states to use federal funds to reach more youth, and provides them the flexibility to determine how the funds are best spent. In addition, a one-stop career center is a more effective method to help adults move from welfare to employment. The vouchers provided for individuals who are unable to find employment otherwise provide a solid alternative to generation upon generation living on welfare. It is an important supplement to welfare reform.

For additional information on this issue, visit:
Ohio State Board of Education Member Diana Fessler's H.R. 1385 Update
House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Send comments and mail to CRER

Return Home

This page hosted by GeoCitiesGet your own Free Home Page

Last updated by Citizens for Responsible Education Reform on 10/18/97
http://geocities.datacellar.net/Heartland/Ranch/4851
1