Adult Education WORKS Act

The Adult Education WORKS Act creates "college and career navigators" to help adults access workforce development programs, postsecondary education, and career services. It amends definitions to include digital and information literacy skills, and allows public libraries to serve as one-stop centers for workforce development services. The bill increases funding for adult education programs from $810 million to $1.35 billion over five years, and provides $135 million annually specifically for library-based and community-based college and career navigators. It establishes new performance metrics to measure program effectiveness in helping participants obtain credentials, secure employment, and develop foundational skills. The bill directly affects adult education providers, workforce development systems, and individuals seeking to improve their job skills and career opportunities.