Bill > S2987

This bill establishes the American Workforce Program, a new federal initiative designed to provide an alternative pathway to career development for individuals who may not pursue traditional college education. The program creates a framework for employers to develop workforce training contracts with prospective trainees, offering structured on-the-job work and educational training. Under the program, employers can receive workforce education subsidies (up to $9,000 per trainee) and a $1,000 bonus for hiring a trainee as a full-time employee. Trainees must be U.S. citizens with a high school diploma or equivalent, and must not have a bachelor's degree. The program will be administered by a Director within the Economic Development Administration of the Department of Commerce, who will review and approve workforce contracts, monitor compliance, and collect detailed data about program outcomes. Employers must pay trainees at least minimum wage and provide training that leads to a position with an annual salary of at least 80% of the median household income in their county. The program includes robust oversight mechanisms, such as whistleblower protections and the ability to issue warnings or penalties to non-compliant employers. The initiative is designed to sunset after 10 years, with comprehensive reports to Congress at the 5-year and 10-year marks to evaluate its effectiveness and potential improvements.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2987/all-info