PARTNERS Act

The PARTNERS Act would provide federal funding to states to support regional industry partnerships that connect small and medium-sized businesses with workers through registered apprenticeships and other work-based learning programs. These partnerships would help businesses develop training programs while offering workers paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, particularly targeting in-demand industry sectors. The bill requires partnerships to serve workers with barriers to employment and provide at least 12 months of support services, including job placement assistance and retention support. States would allocate funds to local partnerships that must track performance metrics related to program participation and outcomes, with specific reporting requirements for different demographic groups. The legislation aims to expand access to quality training pathways while connecting businesses with skilled workers in targeted industries.