This bill creates a new federal grant program to help workers develop digital skills needed for today's jobs. Under the legislation, the Department of Labor would distribute grants to states based on population and the number of residents with low digital literacy skills, with states then awarding subgrants to local organizations to provide digital skills training. The program also establishes competitive grants for eligible entities to develop digital workplace skills curriculum, provide instructor training, and support accelerated learning programs that help workers gain skills quickly. The bill emphasizes supporting individuals with barriers to employment and those from communities historically underrepresented in the workforce. Congress authorizes whatever funding is necessary to carry out the program for fiscal years 2024 through 2028, with the Department of Labor allowed to reserve up to five percent of appropriated funds for administration and two to four percent for program evaluation. The legislation addresses findings that while 92 percent of jobs require digital skills, one-third of workers lack foundational digital abilities, and workers of color face disproportionate digital skills gaps.
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