Adult Education and Economic Growth Act - Amends the Workforce Investment Act of 1988 to revise requirements for statewide and local workforce investment systems to include adult education activities.
Replaces statewide and local workforce investment systems with adult education and workforce investment systems.
Revises member composition of: (1) state workforce investment boards to include the lead state agency officials with particular responsibility for implementing adult education and literacy activities; and (2) youth councils established by local workforce investment boards to include representatives of adult education.
Revises requirements for five-year state and local worker investment plans.
Authorizes the use of funds for: (1) statewide and local youth activities to provide opportunities for multiple career pathways for eligible youth, and (2) training services for local adult and dislocated workers to include integrated education and training and career pathway services.
Requires the Secretary of Labor to carry out specified employment and training demonstration and pilot projects.
Amends the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA) to include among adult education and literacy services programs activities to assist adults with limited English proficiency to improve their English and mathematical skills, acquire an understanding of the American system of government and responsibilities of citizenship, and, where necessary, obtain knowledge and skills to transition to postsecondary education, job training, and employment in family-sustaining jobs.
Revises requirements for the allocation and reservation of AEFLA funds.
Revises state distribution requirements with respect to grants and contracts to eligible providers of activities for adult education and literacy and corrections education of institutionalized individuals.
Expands an eligible agency's use of funds for corrections education and education for other institutionalized individuals to include academic programs for: (1) integrated education and training and sequential education and training programs, (2) career pathways, (3) dual enrollment, and (4) preparation for postsecondary education and training.
Replaces the National Institute for Literacy with the National Center for Adult Education, Literacy, and Workplace Skills (Center).
Requires national leadership activities to include activities to improve workplace skills programs nationwide.
Requires the Secretary of Education to allocate grants to states for integrated English literacy and civics education programs.
Requires the Secretary of Education to award grants to assist states in developing a 21st century delivery system for adult education, literacy, and workplace skills services as well as adults in developing digital literacy skills.
Requires the Center to establish the National Adult Learning and Technology Resource Clearinghouse.
Requires the Secretary of Education to direct the Commissioner for Education Research of the National Center for Education Research to establish a national research and development center for adult education, literacy, and workplace skills.
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an employer educational assistance program credit for 50% of the qualified educational assistance expenses (up to $5,250) paid per taxable year on behalf of an employee.
[Congressional Bills 113th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 3697 Introduced in House (IH)]
113th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. R. 3697
To increase access to adult education to provide for economic growth.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
December 11, 2013
Mr. Hinojosa introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the
Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined
by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as
fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To increase access to adult education to provide for economic growth.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Adult Education
and Economic Growth Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is the
following:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
TITLE I--ADULT EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE INVESTMENT SYSTEMS
Sec. 101. Definitions.
Sec. 102. Purpose.
Sec. 103. State workforce investment boards.
Sec. 104. State plan.
Sec. 105. Local workforce investment boards.
Sec. 106. Local plan.
Sec. 107. Use of funds for youth activities.
Sec. 108. Use of funds for employment and training activities.
Sec. 109. Performance accountability system.
Sec. 110. National programs.
Sec. 111. Administration.
Sec. 112. Transition provisions.
Sec. 113. Table of contents.
TITLE II--ADULT EDUCATION, LITERACY, AND WORKPLACE SKILLS
Sec. 201. Purpose.
Sec. 202. Definitions.
Sec. 203. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 204. Reservation of funds; grants to eligible agencies;
allotments.
Sec. 205. Performance accountability system.
Sec. 206. State distribution of funds; matching requirement.
Sec. 207. State leadership activities.
Sec. 208. State plan.
Sec. 209. Programs for corrections education and other
institutionalized individuals.
Sec. 210. Grants and contracts for eligible providers.
Sec. 211. Local application.
Sec. 212. Administrative provisions.
Sec. 213. National Center For Adult Education, Literacy, and Workplace
Skills.
Sec. 214. National leadership activities.
Sec. 215. Integrated English literacy and civics education programs.
TITLE III--21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGY AND SKILLS FOR ADULT LEARNERS
Sec. 301. Purposes.
Sec. 302. Definitions.
Sec. 303. Reservation of funds and allotments.
Sec. 304. Grants to eligible agencies.
Sec. 305. Subgrants and contracts to eligible providers.
Sec. 306. National Adult Learning and Technology Clearinghouse.
Sec. 307. Authorization of appropriations.
TITLE IV--RESEARCH IN ADULT EDUCATION
Sec. 401. Research in adult education.
TITLE V--EMPLOYER INCENTIVES
Sec. 501. Credit for employer educational assistance programs.
TITLE I--ADULT EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE INVESTMENT SYSTEMS
SEC. 101. DEFINITIONS.
(a) Title Header.--The title header for title I of the Workforce
Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2801 et seq.) is amended to read as
follows:
``TITLE I--ADULT EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE INVESTMENT SYSTEMS''.
(b) Terms.--Section 101 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29
U.S.C. 2801) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(54) Career pathway.--The term `career pathway' means a
system of educational and social services connecting education,
training, and support services, including adult basic skills,
English language instruction, General Educational Development
test preparation, and noncredit and for-credit industry-
recognized credential and degree programs, to enable youth and
adults to advance over time to successively higher levels of
education and employment in a given industry, industry sector,
or occupational cluster, that--
``(A) aligns adult education, postsecondary
education, and occupational skills training to create a
pathway to attaining a recognized postsecondary
credential that will qualify an individual for career
advancement in projected employment opportunities
identified in the State plan under section
112(b)(4)(A);
``(B) includes advising and career navigation to
support the development of individual education and
career plans; and
``(C) leads to a secondary school diploma or its
recognized equivalent (for individuals who have not
completed secondary school) or to a recognized
postsecondary credential.
``(55) Integrated education and training.--The term
`integrated education and training' means education that, at
the same time, combines adult education services and
occupational skills training for a specific occupation or
occupational cluster leading to a recognized postsecondary
credential.
``(56) Recognized postsecondary credential.--The term
`recognized postsecondary credential' means a postsecondary
degree from an institution of higher education described in
section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1001), a credential for completion of a registered
apprenticeship program, or another industry-recognized
credential (such as an industry certificate, or a license in an
in-demand industry), if the recipient of the grant or contract
involved determines that the program leading to the credential
is of high quality.
``(57) Registered apprenticeship program.--The term
`registered apprenticeship program' means an industry
occupational skills training program at the postsecondary level
that combines technical and theoretical training through
structured on-the-job learning with related instruction (in
classrooms or through distance learning) while an individual is
employed, working under the direction of qualified personnel or
a mentor, and earning incremental wage increases aligned to
enhanced job proficiency, resulting in the acquisition of a
nationally recognized and portable certificate, under a plan
approved by the Office of Apprenticeship or a State agency
recognized by the Department of Labor.
``(58) Sequential education and training.--The term
`sequential education and training' means adult education
services that may occur prior to occupational skills training
or postsecondary education and are appropriate for adults who
need services offered, one after another, in a progressive
fashion.
``(59) Workplace skills.--The term `workplace skills' means
the combination of basic skills, critical thinking skills, and
self management skills with competency in utilizing resources,
using information, working with others, understanding systems,
and working with technology, and other skills necessary for
success in the workplace.''.
SEC. 102. PURPOSE.
(a) Subtitle Header.--The subtitle header for subtitle B of title I
of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2811 et seq.) is
amended to read as follows:
``Subtitle B--State and Local Adult Education and Workforce Investment
Systems''.
(b) Purpose.--Section 106 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998
(29 U.S.C. 2811) is amended by striking ``workforce investment
systems'' and inserting ``adult education and workforce investment
systems''.
SEC. 103. STATE WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARDS.
Section 111 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2821) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(1)(C)(vi)(I), by inserting
``(particularly the lead State agency officials with
responsibility for the programs and activities that are
described in section 121(b)(1)(B)(iii))'' after ``121(b)''; and
(2) in subsection (d)(2), by striking ``workforce
investment system'' and inserting ``adult education and
workforce investment system''.
SEC. 104. STATE PLAN.
Section 112 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2822) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking ``workforce investment system'' and
inserting ``adult education and workforce investment
system''; and
(B) by inserting ``and aligns with the State plan
described in section 224'' before the period at the
end;
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraphs (2) and (3), by striking
``workforce investment system'' and inserting ``adult
education and workforce investment system'';
(B) in paragraph (4)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by inserting
``academic levels and'' before ``job skills'';
(ii) in subparagraph (C), by striking
``and'' after the semicolon;
(iii) in subparagraph (D), by striking
``State;'' and inserting ``State, including
education, training, and registered
apprenticeship programs and their relationship
to the employment opportunities, academic
levels, skills, and economic development needs
described in this paragraph; and''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(E) the integrated education and training and
sequential education and training activities that will
be integrated and aligned with workforce investment
activities and services under this title, and the
State's efforts to promote greater integration and
alignment of adult education and workforce investment
activities and services under this title;'';
(C) in paragraph (8)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)(x), by striking
``and'' after the semicolon;
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking the
semicolon and inserting ``, including processes
for data collection and reporting regarding
performance on the core indicators described in
section 212; and''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) a description of any integrated data systems
used to track performance outcomes over time for the
participants in the programs and activities described
in subparagraph (A);'';
(D) in paragraph (9), by striking ``businesses and
representatives of labor organizations'' and inserting
``businesses, representatives of labor organizations,
and representatives of education and training providers
(including adult education providers, institutions of
higher education (as defined in section 101 of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)), and
training providers)'';
(E) in paragraph (10), by striking ``workforce
investment system'' and inserting ``adult education and
workforce investment system'';
(F) in paragraph (17)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)(iv), by adding ``,
and including individuals receiving services
under title II'' after ``disabilities''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking
``and'' after the semicolon;
(G) in paragraph (18)(D), by striking the period at
the end and inserting a semicolon; and
(H) by adding at the end the following:
``(19) a strategy for coordinating services, including
guidance, counseling, mentoring, and other supports, to
populations in need of such services, through public and
private partnerships, and for creating transition strategies
with such elements as dual enrollment, curricular articulation,
and high intensity instruction; and
``(20) an assurance that every region, as designated by the
State under section 116(c), in the State has at least 1 adult
education program that offers more than 1 option for earning a
credential with value in the local market to students who do
not yet have a secondary school diploma or its recognized
equivalent and who are unlikely to earn such a diploma or
equivalent in the short-term, which option may include earning
the credential through a partnership that includes a community
college or occupational skills training provider and may
include getting that equivalent in the process.''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) Program Development Period.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of this section, a State may be eligible to receive an
allotment under section 127 or 132, or to receive financial assistance
under the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.), before the State
submits a single State plan under this section (as amended under
section 104 of the Adult Education and Economic Growth Act of 2013) if
the State is in a 1-year program development period.''.
SEC. 105. LOCAL WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARDS.
Section 117 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2832) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``workforce investment
system'' each place it appears and inserting ``adult education
and workforce investment system'';
(2) in subsection (d)(8), by striking ``workforce
investment system'' and inserting ``adult education and
workforce investment system''; and
(3) in subsection (h)(2)(A)--
(A) in clause (v), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon; and
(B) by inserting after clause (vi), the following:
``(vii) representatives of adult education
programs; and''.
SEC. 106. LOCAL PLAN.
Section 118(b)(1) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29
U.S.C. 2833(b)(1)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(2) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``academic levels
and'' before ``job skills''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(D) the type and availability of workforce
investment activities in the local area, including
education, training, and registered apprenticeship
programs and their relationship to such business,
jobseeker, and worker needs, employment opportunities,
and academic levels and job skills, and economic
development needs; and
``(E) the integrated education and training and
sequential education and training activities that will
be carried out under this title or title II and the
integration and alignment of activities described in
this subparagraph with workforce investment activities
and services under this title.''.
SEC. 107. USE OF FUNDS FOR YOUTH ACTIVITIES.
Section 129 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2854) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (5), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(B) in paragraph (6), by striking the period and
inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(7) to provide opportunities for multiple pathways for
eligible youth.''; and
(2) in subsection (c)(1)(C)--
(A) in clause (iii), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(B) in clause (iv)(II), by striking the period and
inserting a semicolon; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(v) opportunities for career pathways;
and
``(vi) opportunities for the completion of
secondary school, in appropriate cases.''.
SEC. 108. USE OF FUNDS FOR EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING ACTIVITIES.
Section 134 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2864) is amended--
(1) in subsections (a)(3)(A)(vii) and (c)(2)(B)(ii)(II), by
striking ``workforce investment system'' and inserting ``adult
education and workforce investment system''; and
(2) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (3)(A)(i)(I), by striking ``and
are unable to obtain employment through core services
provided under paragraph (2)''; and
(B) in paragraph (4)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking
``and who are unable to obtain or retain
employment through such services'';
(ii) in subparagraph (D)--
(I) in clause (viii), by striking
``and'' after the semicolon;
(II) in clause (ix), by striking
the period and inserting a semicolon;
and
(III) by adding at the end the
following:
``(x) integrated education and training;
and
``(xi) career pathway services.'';
(iii) in subparagraph (G)--
(I) in clause (i), by striking
``clause (ii)'' and inserting ``clause
(ii) or subparagraph (H)''; and
(II) in clause (ii)--
(aa) in subclause (II), by
striking ``or'' after the
semicolon;
(bb) in subclause (III), by
striking the period and
inserting ``; or''; and
(cc) by adding at the end
the following:
``(IV) the local board determines
that such provision of training
services would facilitate the provision
of integrated education and training
and sequential education and training
programs.''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(H) Authorization of contracts to institutions of
higher education.--The local board may award a contract
to an institution of higher education or other eligible
provider of training services, including an adult
education provider eligible under section 122, if the
local board determines that provision of services
through the contract would facilitate the training of
multiple individuals in in-demand occupations.''.
SEC. 109. PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM.
Section 136 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2871) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(2)(A)--
(A) in clause (i)--
(i) in the matter preceding subclause (I),
by striking ``and (for participants who are
eligible youth age 19 through 21) for youth
activities authorized under section 129'';
(ii) in subclause (III), by striking
``and'' at the end;
(iii) in subclause (IV), by striking ``, or
by participants who are eligible youth age 19
through 21 who enter postsecondary education,
advanced training, or unsubsidized
employment.'' and inserting ``; and''; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following:
``(V) performance on the core
indicators described in section 212, as
appropriate.''; and
(B) in clause (ii)--
(i) in the matter preceding subclause (I),
by striking ``(for participants who are
eligible youth age 14 through 18)'';
(ii) in subclause (I), by striking ``and,
as appropriate, work readiness or occupational
skills'' and inserting ``, workplace skills, or
occupational skills, as appropriate'';
(iii) in subclause (II), by striking
``and'' after the semicolon;
(iv) in subclause (III), by striking the
period and inserting ``; and''; and
(v) by adding at the end the following:
``(IV) the measures described in
subclauses (I), (II), and (III) of
clause (i), for eligible youth age 18
and older.''; and
(2) in paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of subsection (e), by
striking ``workforce investment system'' and inserting ``adult
education and workforce investment system''.
SEC. 110. NATIONAL PROGRAMS.
Section 171 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2916) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``and'' after
the semicolon;
(B) in subparagraph (H), by striking the period and
inserting a semicolon; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(I) projects that assist low-skill and limited
English proficient workers to acquire basic, English,
work readiness, and applied technical or occupational
skills through integrated education and training and
sequential education and training programs to
successfully transition to postsecondary education,
workforce development, and employment in career
pathways; and
``(J) projects that test effective ways to develop
comprehensive career pathway learning approaches that--
``(i) fully align adult education with--
``(I) secondary education,
postsecondary education, workforce
development programs including
registered apprenticeship programs, and
supportive service activities; and
``(II) regional economic
development strategies to meet the
skill needs of existing and emerging
regional employers as well as the needs
of low-skilled adults; and
``(ii) are designed to help adults,
especially those who are low-skilled, to
advance through progressive levels of education
and training as quickly as possible and gain
education and workplace skills of demonstrated
value to the labor market at each level.''; and
(2) in subparagraphs (D)(iii)(I) and (E)(ii)(III) of
subsection (e)(2), by striking ``workforce investment system''
and inserting ``adult education and workforce investment
system''.
SEC. 111. ADMINISTRATION.
(a) Requirements and Restrictions.--Section 181(b)(1) of the
Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2931(b)(1)) is amended by
striking ``workforce investment system'' and inserting ``adult
education and workforce investment system''.
(b) Waivers and Special Rules.--Section 189(i)(4)(B) of the
Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2939(i)(4)(B)) is amended
by striking ``workforce investment system'' and inserting ``adult
education and workforce investment system''.
SEC. 112. TRANSITION PROVISIONS.
Section 506(a) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (20 U.S.C.
9276(a)) is amended--
(1) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Workforce
Investment Systems'' and inserting ``Adult Education and
Workforce Investment Systems''; and
(2) by striking ``workforce investment systems'' and
inserting ``adult education and workforce investment systems''.
SEC. 113. TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The table of contents in section 1(b) of the Workforce Investment
Act of 1998 is amended--
(1) by striking the item relating to the title header for
title I and inserting the following:
``TITLE I--ADULT EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE INVESTMENT SYSTEMS'';
and
(2) by striking the item relating to the subtitle header
for subtitle B of title I and inserting the following:
``Subtitle B--State and Local Adult Education and Workforce Investment
Systems''.
TITLE II--ADULT EDUCATION, LITERACY, AND WORKPLACE SKILLS
SEC. 201. PURPOSE.
Section 202 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9201) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
``(1) assist adults to become literate and numerate and to
obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to transition to and
succeed in postsecondary education, job training, and
employment in family-sustaining jobs, and to be self
sufficient;'';
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(3) in paragraph (3), by striking ``education.'' and
inserting ``education and transition to postsecondary education
and career pathways; and''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(4) assist adults with limited English proficiency in--
``(A) improving their reading, writing, speaking,
listening, and comprehension skills in English and
their mathematical skills;
``(B) acquiring an understanding of the American
system of Government, individual freedom, and the
responsibilities of citizenship; and
``(C) where necessary, obtaining the knowledge and
skills to transition to and succeed in postsecondary
education, job training, and employment in family-
sustaining jobs.''.
SEC. 202. DEFINITIONS.
(a) In General.--Section 203 of the Adult Education and Family
Literacy Act (20 U.S.C. 9202) is amended--
(1) by striking paragraph (14);
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (1) (2), (3) through (11),
(12), (13), and (15) through (18) as paragraphs (2), (3), (5)
through (13), (15), (16), and (17) through (20), respectively;
(3) by inserting before paragraph (2), as redesignated by
paragraph (2), the following:
``(1) WIA terms.--The terms `career pathway', `integrated
education and training', `local board', `outlying area',
`sequential education and training', `State board', and
`workplace skills' have the meanings given the terms in section
101.'';
(4) by inserting after paragraph (3), as redesignated by
paragraph (2), the following:
``(4) Digital literacy skills.--The term `digital literacy
skills' has the meaning given the term in section 202 of the
Museum and Library Services Act (20 U.S.C. 9101).'';
(5) in paragraph (7), as redesignated by paragraph (2)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by
inserting ``an organization that has demonstrated
effectiveness in providing adult education and literacy
activities and workplace skills activities, and that
may include'' after ``means'';
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``of
demonstrated effectiveness'';
(C) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``of
demonstrated effectiveness'';
(D) in subparagraph (H), by striking ``and'' after
the semicolon;
(E) in subparagraph (I), by striking the period and
inserting ``; and''; and
(F) by adding at the end the following:
``(J) a partnership between an entity described in
any of subparagraphs (A) through (I) and an
employer.'';
(6) in paragraph (9), as redesignated by paragraph (2)--
(A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by
striking ``a family'' and inserting ``the economic
prospects for a family that better enable parents to
support their children's learning needs'';
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) through (D)
as subparagraphs (B) through (E), respectively; and
(C) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as
redesignated by subparagraph (B), the following:
``(A) Parent adult education and literacy
activities and workplace skills activities that lead to
readiness for postsecondary education or training,
career advancement, and economic self-sufficiency.'';
and
(7) by inserting after paragraph (13), as redesignated by
paragraph (2), the following:
``(14) Integrated english literacy and civics education
program.--The term `integrated English literacy and civics
education program' means programs of instruction designed to
help an individual of limited English proficiency achieve
competence in English through contextualized instruction on the
rights and responsibilities of citizenship, naturalization
procedures, civic participation, and United States history and
Government to help such an individual acquire the skills and
knowledge to become an active and informed parent, worker, and
community member.''.
(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 173A(b)(8) of the Workforce
Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2918a(b)(8)) is amended by striking
``section 203(10) of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9202(10))'' and inserting ``section 203(12) of the Adult
Education and Family Literacy Act (20 U.S.C. 9202(12))''.
SEC. 203. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 205 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9204) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 205. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this title
$850,000,000 for fiscal year 2015 and such sums as may be necessary for
each succeeding fiscal year.''.
SEC. 204. RESERVATION OF FUNDS; GRANTS TO ELIGIBLE AGENCIES;
ALLOTMENTS.
Section 211(a) of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9211(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``$8,000,000'' and
inserting ``$15,000,000'';
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``1.5 percent'' and inserting
``1.25 percent''; and
(B) by striking ``$8,000,000;'' and inserting
``$12,000,000; and'';
(3) in paragraph (3), by striking the period and inserting
``; and''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(4) shall reserve 12 percent to carry out section 244.''.
SEC. 205. PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM.
Section 212(b) of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9212(b)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(A)--
(A) in clause (i), by inserting ``and the
employment performance indicator described in paragraph
(2)(B)'' after ``paragraph (2)(A)''; and
(B) in clause (ii), by striking ``paragraph
(2)(B)'' and inserting ``paragraph (2)(C)'';
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) in clause (ii), by striking ``in,
retention in'' and all that follows through the
period at the end and inserting ``in
postsecondary education, including registered
apprenticeships, or other skill training
programs.''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(iv) Attainment of work readiness,
workplace skills, and certificates that are
industry-recognized credentials described in
section 101(56) or approved by the State board
or local board, as appropriate.'';
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as
subparagraph (D);
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the
following:
``(B) Employment performance indicator.--Consistent
with applicable Federal and State privacy laws--
``(i) an eligible agency shall identify in
the State plan an individual participant
employment performance indicator, which shall
be based on entry into employment, retention,
and earnings; and
``(ii) the State agency responsible for
maintaining and analyzing the data described in
clause (i) shall assist the eligible agency in
obtaining and using quarterly wage records to
collect such data.
``(C) Digital literacy skills indicator.--Beginning
in 2015, an eligible agency shall include a digital
literacy skills indicator in its State plan.''; and
(D) by striking subparagraph (D), as redesignated
by subparagraph (B), and inserting the following:
``(D) Additional indicators.--An eligible agency
may identify in the State plan additional indicators,
including customer feedback, for adult education and
literacy activities and workplace skills activities
authorized under this subtitle.''; and
(3) in paragraph (3)(B)--
(A) in the heading, by inserting ``and employment
performance indicator'' after ``indicators''; and
(B) by striking ``paragraph (2)(B)'' and inserting
``paragraph (2)(D), the employment performance
indicator described in paragraph (2)(B), and beginning
in 2015, the digital literacy indicator described in
paragraph (2)(C)''.
SEC. 206. STATE DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS; MATCHING REQUIREMENT.
Section 222(a) of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9222(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``not more than 10'' and inserting
``not less than 10''; and
(B) by striking ``82.5 percent'' both places the
term appears and inserting ``80 percent''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``12.5 percent'' and
inserting ``15 percent''.
SEC. 207. STATE LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES.
Section 223(a) of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9223(a)) is amended to read as follows:
``(a) Activities.--
``(1) Required activities.--Each eligible agency shall use
funds made available under section 222(a)(2) for the following
adult education and literacy activities and workplace skills
activities:
``(A) The establishment or operation of
professional development programs to improve the
quality of instruction provided pursuant to local
activities required under section 231(b).
``(B) The provision of technical assistance to
eligible providers of adult education and literacy
activities and workplace skills activities to enable
them to fulfill the purpose of this title, as described
in section 202.
``(C) The monitoring and evaluation of adult
education and literacy activities and related
activities to determine what works and broadly
disseminate information about models and best practices
and tools within the State.
``(D) The provision of technology assistance,
including staff training, to eligible providers of
adult education and literacy activities and workplace
skills activities to enable the eligible providers to
improve the quality of such activities.
``(E) Coordination with the workforce investment
systems supported under title I.
``(2) Permissible activities.--Each eligible agency may use
funds made available under section 222(a)(2) for one or more of
the following adult education and literacy activities and
workplace skills activities:
``(A) Support for State or regional networks of
literacy resource centers.
``(B) Incentives for program coordination and
integration, and performance awards.
``(C) Developing and disseminating curricula for
postsecondary and job training readiness, including
curricula for using technology for distance learning
and for instructional and teacher training purposes.
``(D) Coordination with existing support services,
such as transportation, child care, and other
assistance designed to increase rates of enrollment in,
and successful completion of, adult education and
literacy activities and workplace skills activities, to
adults enrolled in such adult education and literacy
activities and workplace skills activities.
``(E) Developing innovative content and models for
integrated education and training and sequential
education and training programs.
``(F) Developing innovative content and models to
foster the transition to and success in postsecondary
education and career pathways.
``(G) Linkages with postsecondary educational
institutions.
``(H) Linkages with community-based organizations.
``(I) Support for recruitment and outreach for
instructors, students, and employers.
``(J) Linkages with public libraries.
``(K) Other activities that address issues of
statewide significance''.
SEC. 208. STATE PLAN.
Section 224 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9224) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph
(4); and
(B) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) Program development period.--Notwithstanding any
other provision of this section, an eligible agency may be
eligible to receive a grant under this title before submission
of a 5-year State plan under this section if the eligible
agency is in a 1-year program development period.
``(3) Stakeholder involvement.--The 5-year State plan shall
be comprehensive in nature and developed and monitored by a
planning group of all stakeholders in the State's adult
education and workforce development system. The stakeholders
shall include--
``(A) the State agencies responsible for--
``(i) the State's programs under this title
and title I;
``(ii) the State program funded under part
A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 601 et seq.);
``(iii) overseeing community colleges;
``(iv) elementary and secondary education;
``(v) corrections;
``(vi) economic development;
``(vii) family literacy; and
``(viii) special services to immigrants;
and
``(B) representatives of business and labor.'';
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking paragraph (10) and inserting the
following:
``(10) a description and strategy of how the eligible
agency will develop program strategies and coordinate services,
including guidance, counseling, mentoring, and other supports
through public and private partnerships and creating transition
strategies with such elements as dual enrollment, curricular
articulation, and high intensity instruction, for populations
that include, at a minimum--
``(A) low-income students;
``(B) individuals with disabilities;
``(C) single parents and displaced homemakers; and
``(D) individuals with multiple barriers to
educational enhancement, including individuals with
limited English proficiency;'';
(B) in paragraph (11), by striking ``and'' after
the semicolon;
(C) in paragraph (12), by striking the period at
the end and inserting a semicolon; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(13) a description of the knowledge and skills necessary
for acceptance in postsecondary education and training;
``(14) an assurance that every local program area, as
defined by the eligible agency, served by the eligible agency
has at least 1 adult education program that offers more than 1
option for earning a credential with value in the local
employment market to students who do not yet have a secondary
school diploma or its recognized equivalent and who are
unlikely to earn such diploma or equivalent in the short term,
which option may include earning the credential through a
partnership that includes a community college or job training
provider and may include earning the recognized equivalent of a
secondary school degree in the process;
``(15) a description of any certification or other
requirements for instructors in eligible adult education,
literacy, and workplace skills program providers in the State;
``(16) a description of the professional development needs
of adult education, literacy, and workplace skills providers in
the State;
``(17) a description of how the State will--
``(A) use technology to improve the quality of
adult education, literacy, and workplace skills
services; and
``(B) expand access to such services for workers
and students;
``(18) a description of how the State will carry out
programs described in section 244, if the State is receiving a
grant under such section;
``(19) a description of the data system that the State will
use to track over time student outcomes on the performance
measures described in section 212;
``(20) a description of the State's program to invest in
the skills of workers, including plans for involving business
as an active partner in the effort; and
``(21) a description of how the adult education programs
will be integrated with occupational skills programs and
aligned with postsecondary education, career, and technical
education, workforce development programs, and other Federal
funds available under title I and other relevant Federal
programs.'';
(3) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the following:
``(e) Peer Review and Plan Approval.--The Secretary shall--
``(1) establish a peer-review process to assist in the
review and approval of State plans;
``(2) in consultation with the National Center for Adult
Education, Literacy, and Workplace Skills, appoint individuals,
representing the range of stakeholders, to the peer-review
process, including--
``(A) representatives of adult learners, adult
education, literacy, and workplace skills providers,
eligible agencies, State educational agencies,
institutions of higher education, and representatives
of State boards or local boards; and
``(B) experts in the fields of adult education,
literacy, and workplace skills;
``(3) approve a State plan not later than 120 days after
receiving the plan, unless the Secretary makes a written
determination, not later than 30 days after receiving the plan,
that the plan does not meet the requirements of this section or
is inconsistent with specific provisions of this subtitle; and
``(4) not finally disapprove of a State plan before
offering the eligible agency the opportunity, prior to the
expiration of the 30-day period beginning on the date on which
the eligible agency received the written determination
described in paragraph (3), to revise the plan, and providing
technical assistance in order to assist the eligible agency in
meeting the requirements of this subtitle.''; and
(4) by striking subsections (f) and (g).
SEC. 209. PROGRAMS FOR CORRECTIONS EDUCATION AND OTHER
INSTITUTIONALIZED INDIVIDUALS.
Section 225 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9225) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (3), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon at the end;
(B) in paragraph (4), by striking the period at the
end and inserting a semicolon; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(5) integrated education and training and sequential
education and training programs;
``(6) career pathways programs;
``(7) dual enrollment programs; and
``(8) preparation for postsecondary education and
training.'';
(2) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (e); and
(3) by inserting after subsection (c) the following:
``(d) Report.--In addition to any report required under section
212(c), each eligible agency receiving a grant under section 211(b)
shall annually prepare and submit to the Secretary a report on the
progress, as described in section 212(c)(1), of the eligible agency
with respect to the programs and activities of the eligible entity
receiving assistance under this section.''.
SEC. 210. GRANTS AND CONTRACTS FOR ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS.
Section 231(b)(1) of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act
(20 U.S.C. 9241(b)(1)) is amended to read as follows:
``(1) Adult education, literacy, and workplace skills
services, which may include workplace literacy services,
integrated education and training and sequential education and
training services, and services assisting with the transition
to postsecondary education, training, career pathways, or
employment.''.
SEC. 211. LOCAL APPLICATION.
Section 232 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9242) is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting
``the measurable goals to be accomplished as a result of the
grant or contract and'' after ``including'';
(2) in paragraph (1), by striking ``and'' after the
semicolon;
(3) in paragraph (2), by striking the period and inserting
``; and''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) a description of how the eligible provider will
collect data for purposes of reporting performance measures to
assess and evaluate the progress of adult education students
and activities.''.
SEC. 212. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS.
Section 241 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9251) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Rulemaking.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall issue such
regulations as are necessary to reasonably ensure compliance
with this title.
``(2) Consultation.--Before publishing in the Federal
Register proposed regulations to carry out this title, the
Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Labor and obtain
the advice and recommendations of representatives of--
``(A) adult learners;
``(B) adult education, literacy, and workplace
skills providers;
``(C) eligible agencies;
``(D) State educational agencies;
``(E) institutions of higher education, including
community colleges;
``(F) representatives of State boards and local
boards;
``(G) other organizations involved with the
implementation and operation of programs under this
title; and
``(H) community-based organizations involved with
the implementation and operation of programs under this
title.
``(3) Meetings and electronic exchange.--The advice and
recommendations described in paragraph (2) may be obtained
through such mechanisms as regional meetings and electronic
exchanges of information.''.
SEC. 213. NATIONAL CENTER FOR ADULT EDUCATION, LITERACY, AND WORKPLACE
SKILLS.
Section 242 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9252) is amended--
(1) by striking the section heading and inserting the
following: ``national center for adult education, literacy, and
workplace skills'';
(2) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:
``(a) Purpose.--The purpose of the National Center for Adult
Education, Literacy, and Workplace Skills established under subsection
(b) is to--
``(1) provide national leadership regarding adult education
and family literacy;
``(2) coordinate adult education, literacy, and workplace
skills services and policy;
``(3) serve as a national resource for adult education,
literacy, and workplace skills programs by--
``(A) providing the best and most accurate
information available;
``(B) providing national leadership on the use of
technology for adult education;
``(C) supporting the creation of new ways to offer
adult education, literacy, and workplace skills
services of proven effectiveness;
``(D) providing effective practices for integrated
English literacy and civics education programs; and
``(E) providing effective practices for corrections
education;
``(4) collect and disseminate information on methods of
advancing education and literacy that show great promise for
adults eligible for services under this title;
``(5) provide policy and technical assistance to Federal,
State, and local organizations for the improvement of adult
education, literacy, and workplace skills services; and
``(6) not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of
the Adult Education and Economic Growth Act of 2013, conduct an
evaluation and submit a report to the Interagency Group, the
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the
Senate, and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the
House of Representatives, on the effectiveness of programs
funded under this title in achieving the purpose described in
section 202, which evaluation and report shall include--
``(A) a longitudinal study of outcomes for adult
learners served under programs under this title;
``(B) an analysis of the adequacy of the
performance measures described in section 212; and
``(C) recommendations for improved performance
measures and on how to improve program
effectiveness.'';
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the first sentence, by striking
``National Institute for Literacy (in this
section referred to as the `Institute')'' and
inserting ``National Center for Adult
Education, Literacy, and Workplace Skills (in
this section referred to as the `Center')'';
(ii) in the second sentence, by striking
``Institute'' and inserting ``Center''; and
(iii) in the third sentence, by striking
``the Institute'' and inserting ``the Center'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by striking ``Institute'' and inserting
``Center''; and
(ii) by striking ``separate'' and inserting
``independent'';
(C) in paragraph (3)--
(i) by striking ``National Institute for
Literacy Advisory Board'' and inserting
``National Center for Adult Education,
Literacy, and Workplace Skills Advisory
Board''; and
(ii) by striking ``the Institute'' and
inserting ``the Center''; and
(D) in paragraph (4), by striking ``Institute''
each place the term appears and inserting ``Center'';
(4) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph
(A), by striking ``Institute'' and inserting
``Center'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) in clause (iii), by striking
``and'' after the semicolon;
(II) in clause (iv), by inserting
``and'' after the semicolon; and
(III) by adding at the end the
following:
``(v) effective practices for integrated
English literacy and civics education
programs;'';
(iii) by striking subparagraph (D) and
inserting the following:
``(D) to collect and disseminate information on
methods of advancing education and literacy that show
great promise for adults eligible for services under
this title;'';
(iv) by striking subparagraph (E) and
inserting the following:
``(E) to provide policy and technical assistance to
Federal, State, and local organizations for the
improvement of adult education, literacy, and workplace
skills services;'';
(v) in subparagraph (F)(iii), by striking
``Institute'' and inserting ``Center'';
(vi) in subparagraph (G), by inserting
``and integrated English literacy and civics
education programs'' after ``workforce
investment activities'';
(vii) in subparagraph (H), by striking
``and'' after the semicolon;
(viii) in subparagraph (I), by striking the
period and inserting a semicolon; and
(ix) by adding at the end the following:
``(J) to carry out section 306 of the Adult
Education and Economic Growth Act of 2013; and
``(K) not later than 4 years after the date of
enactment of the Adult Education and Economic Growth
Act of 2013, to conduct an evaluation and submit a
report to the Interagency Group, the Committee on
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate,
and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the
House of Representatives on the effectiveness of
programs funded under this title in achieving the
purpose described in section 202, which evaluation and
report shall include--
``(i) a longitudinal study of outcomes for
adult learners served under programs under this
title;
``(ii) an analysis of the adequacy of the
performance measures identified in section 212;
and
``(iii) recommendations for improved
performance measures and on how to improve
program effectiveness.''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Institute''
each place the term appears and inserting ``Center'';
(5) in subsection (d), by striking ``Institute'' each place
the term appears and inserting ``Center'';
(6) in subsection (e)--
(A) in the heading, by striking ``National
Institute for Literacy Advisory Board'' and inserting
``National Center for Adult Education, Literacy, and
Workplace Skills Advisory Board'';
(B) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``National
Institute for Literacy Advisory Board'' and inserting
``National Center for Adult Education, Literacy, and
Workplace Skills Advisory Board''; and
(C) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Institute''
each place the term appears and inserting ``Center'';
(7) in subsection (f)--
(A) by striking ``Institute'' each place the term
appears and inserting ``Center''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``Institute's''
and inserting ``Center's'';
(8) in each of subsections (g), (i), and (j), by striking
``Institute'' and inserting ``Center'';
(9) in subsection (k)--
(A) by striking ``Institute'' each place the term
appears and inserting ``Center''; and
(B) in paragraph (1), by striking ``Institute's''
and inserting ``Center's''; and
(10) in subsection (l), by striking ``Institute'' each
place the term appears and inserting ``Center''.
SEC. 214. NATIONAL LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES.
Section 243 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9253) is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 243. NATIONAL LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES.
``The Secretary shall establish and carry out a program of national
leadership activities to improve the quality and outcomes of adult
education, literacy, and workplace skills programs nationwide. Such
activities--
``(1) shall include--
``(A) technical assistance, which may include--
``(i) assistance to eligible providers in
developing and using certification systems,
performance measures, and data systems for the
improvement of adult education and literacy
activities and workplace skills activities,
including family literacy services, transition
to postsecondary education or career pathways,
corrections education, and integrated English
literacy and civics education programs;
``(ii) assistance related to professional
development activities and assistance for the
purpose of developing, improving, identifying,
and disseminating the most successful methods
and techniques for providing adult education
and literacy activities and workplace skills
activities, including family literacy services,
transition to postsecondary education or career
pathways, and integrated English literacy and
civics education programs, based on scientific
evidence where available; or
``(iii) assistance in distance learning and
promoting and improving the use of technology
in the classroom; and
``(B) program evaluation and data collection and
reporting; and
``(2) may include--
``(A) national demonstration projects for improving
adult education, literacy, and workplace skills
services, which may include projects that--
``(i) accelerate learning outcomes for
adult learners with the lowest literacy levels;
``(ii) promote career pathways;
``(iii) allow dual enrollment in adult
secondary education and credit bearing
postsecondary coursework;
``(iv) provide integrated education and
training and sequential education and training
services;
``(v) build capacity to enhance the
intensity of adult education, literacy, and
workplace skills services;
``(vi) establish partnerships to improve
the quality of and expand adult education,
literacy, and workplace skills services to more
adults;
``(vii) provide professional development
opportunities to adult education, literacy, and
workplace skills service providers;
``(viii) develop new curricula and methods
of instruction that improve learning outcomes
in adult education, literacy, and workplace
skills programs;
``(ix) provide integrated English literacy
and civics education program instruction; and
``(x) provide corrections education; and
``(B) dissemination of the results and best
practices identified in the national demonstration
projects described in subparagraph (A).''.
SEC. 215. INTEGRATED ENGLISH LITERACY AND CIVICS EDUCATION PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 4 of subtitle A of the Adult Education and
Family Literacy Act (20 U.S.C. 9251 et seq.) is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``SEC. 244. INTEGRATED ENGLISH LITERACY AND CIVICS EDUCATION PROGRAMS.
``(a) In General.--From funds reserved under section 211(a)(4) for
each fiscal year, the Secretary shall award grants to States, in
accordance with the allocations under subsection (b), for integrated
English literacy and civics education programs.
``(b) Allocations.--
``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), of the funds
described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall allocate--
``(A) 65 percent to States on the basis of a
State's need for integrated English and civics
education programs, as determined by calculating each
State's share of a 10-year average of the data compiled
by the Office of Immigration Statistics of the
Department of Homeland Security, for immigrants
admitted for lawful permanent residence for the 10 most
recent years; and
``(B) 35 percent to States on the basis of whether
the State experienced growth, as measured by the
average of the 3 most recent years for which data
compiled by the Office of Immigration Statistics of the
Department of Homeland Security are available, for
immigrants admitted for lawful permanent residence.
``(2) Minimum.--No State shall receive an allocation under
paragraph (1) for a fiscal year in an amount that is less than
$60,000.''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents in section 1(b) of
the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 is amended by inserting after the
item relating to section 243 the following:
``Sec. 244. Integrated English literacy and civics education
programs.''.
TITLE III--21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGY AND SKILLS FOR ADULT LEARNERS
SEC. 301. PURPOSES.
The purposes of this title are the following:
(1) To expand access to adult education services and bring
about cost efficiencies through increased use of technology and
the development of a national web portal.
(2) To provide professional development for providers of
adult education, literacy, and workplace skills services so
that the providers are able to--
(A) effectively use technology in the delivery of
adult education, literacy, and workplace skills
services; and
(B) improve the quality of instruction and
accelerate the--
(i) achievement of basic educational
skills, English language literacy, and
secondary school equivalency or postsecondary
education for adult learners; and
(ii) training readiness for adult learners.
(3) To assist States in developing a 21st century delivery
system for adult education, literacy, and workplace skills
services.
(4) To assist adults in developing digital literacy skills.
SEC. 302. DEFINITIONS.
In this title:
(1) Adult education and family literacy act terms.--The
terms ``adult education'', ``eligible agency'', ``eligible
provider'', ``literacy'', ``Secretary'', ``State'', and
``workplace skills'' have the meanings given the terms in
section 203 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (20
U.S.C. 9202).
(2) Center.--The term ``Center'' means the National Center
for Adult Education, Literacy, and Workplace Skills established
under section 242 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy
Act (20 U.S.C. 9252).
(3) Distance education.--The term ``distance education''
has the meaning given the term in section 103 of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1003).
(4) Digital literacy skills.--The term ``digital literacy
skills'' has the meaning given the term in section 202 of the
Museum and Library Services Act (20 U.S.C. 9101).
SEC. 303. RESERVATION OF FUNDS AND ALLOTMENTS.
(a) Reservation of Funds.--From the amounts appropriated under
section 307 for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve 3 percent or
$7,500,000, whichever amount is less, to carry out section 306.
(b) Allotment of Remainder.--From the sums remaining for a fiscal
year after making the reservation under subsection (a), the Secretary
shall allot--
(1) 75 percent to carry out section 305;
(2) 20 percent to carry out section 304; and
(3) 5 percent for administrative costs in carrying out
section 304.
(c) Allotments to Eligible Agencies.--
(1) In general.--From the amounts available to carry out
section 304 for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allot to
each eligible agency with an approved application an amount
that bears the same relationship to such sums as the amount
received under section 211(c)(2) of the Adult Education and
Family Literacy Act (20 U.S.C. 9211(c)(2)) by such eligible
agency bears to the amount received under such section for such
fiscal year by all eligible agencies.
(2) Minimum allotment; ratable reduction.--No eligible
agency shall receive an allotment under paragraph (1) for a
fiscal year in an amount that is less than $100,000. If the
amount appropriated to carry out section 304 for a fiscal year
is not sufficient to pay such minimum allotment to all States,
the amount of such minimum allotments shall be ratably reduced.
SEC. 304. GRANTS TO ELIGIBLE AGENCIES.
(a) Authorization of Grants.--The Secretary shall award grants to
eligible agencies from allotments under section 303(b) to enable the
eligible agencies to carry out subsection (c) and award subgrants or
contracts under section 305.
(b) Application.--
(1) In general.--Each eligible agency that desires to
receive a grant under this title shall submit an application to
the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by
such information as the Secretary may require.
(2) Contents.--An application submitted under paragraph (1)
shall contain the following:
(A) A description of the eligible agency's
technology plan for the adult education system,
including measurable goals to be achieved.
(B) A description of how the eligible agency will
provide technical assistance and support to local
programs.
(C) A description of how the eligible agency will
use technology to expand adult education, literacy, and
workplace skills services to more adults, including
adults in rural areas.
(D) A description of the long-term goals and
strategies for improved outcomes for adult learners.
(E) A description of the professional development
activities to be undertaken in accordance with
subsection (c)(2).
(F) A description of the performance benchmarks to
be used to evaluate the activities supported under the
grant, and how data will be collected.
(G) A description of how the eligible agency will
ensure that grants or contracts to eligible providers
are of sufficient size and scope to achieve the
purposes of this title.
(c) Activities.--An eligible agency that receives a grant under
this title shall carry out the following:
(1) Implementing a statewide technology plan for the adult
education system, including--
(A) providing professional development for adult
education, literacy, and workplace skills service
providers;
(B) providing access to curricula, instruction, and
assessment for adult learners and eligible providers;
(C) supporting the development of curricula and
assessment tools for adult education, literacy, and
workplace skills service providers; and
(D) providing guidance and technical assistance to
eligible providers.
(2) Supporting innovative pilot projects such as the use of
assistive technology to deliver content to adult learners.
SEC. 305. SUBGRANTS AND CONTRACTS TO ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS.
(a) Authorization of Subgrants and Contracts.--An eligible agency
that receives a grant under this title shall award subgrants or
contracts to eligible providers to carry out activities described in
this section.
(b) Eligible Provider Application.--An eligible provider that
desires to receive a subgrant or contract under this section shall
submit an application to an eligible agency, which shall include--
(1) a description of how the eligible provider will
integrate technology into the eligible provider's delivery of
adult education, literacy, and workplace skills services;
(2) a description of professional development activities to
be undertaken; and
(3) a description of plans to regularly replace computers
and servers that lack the functional capabilities to process
new online applications and services, including video
conferencing, video streaming, virtual simulations, and
distance education courses.
(c) Eligible Provider Activities.--An eligible provider that
receives a subgrant or contract under this section shall carry out one
or more of the following:
(1) Acquiring and effectively implementing technology
tools, applications, and other resources in conjunction with
enhancing or redesigning adult education, literacy, and
workplace skills curricula to increase adult learning outcomes
and improve adult digital literacy skills.
(2) Acquiring and effectively implementing technology
tools, applications, and other resources to--
(A) conduct on going assessments and use other
timely data systems to more effectively identify
individual learning needs and guide personalized
instruction, learning, and appropriate interventions
that address those personalized student learning needs;
and
(B) support individualized learning, including
through instructional software and digital content that
support the learning needs of each student or through
providing access to high-quality courses and
instructors, especially in rural areas.
(3) Providing professional development activities for
providers of adult education, literacy, and workplace skills
services that include--
(A) training that is on-going, sustainable, timely,
and directly related to delivering adult education,
literacy, and workplace skills services;
(B) training in strategies and pedagogy in the
delivery of adult education, literacy, and workplace
skills services that involves the use of technology and
curriculum redesign as key components of changing
teaching and learning and improving outcomes for adult
learners;
(C) training in the use of technology to ensure
that providers of adult education, literacy, and
workplace skills services are able to use technology
for data analysis to enable individualized instruction
and to use technology to improve digital literacy
skills for adult learners; and
(D) training that includes on-going communication
and follow-up with instructors, facilitators, and
peers.
(4) Acquisition and implementation of technology tools,
applications, and other resources to be employed in
professional development activities.
SEC. 306. NATIONAL ADULT LEARNING AND TECHNOLOGY CLEARINGHOUSE.
(a) In General.--The Center shall establish and maintain the
National Adult Learning and Technology Resource Clearinghouse (referred
to in this section as the ``Clearinghouse'').
(b) Duties of the Clearinghouse.--The Clearinghouse shall--
(1) develop and disseminate frameworks for technology-based
learning and professional development materials for adult
education, literacy, and workplace skills;
(2) develop and disseminate frameworks for performance
measures for digital literacy skills;
(3) provide technical assistance to eligible entities and
eligible providers of adult education, literacy, and workplace
skills;
(4) support distance education for professional development
for eligible entities and eligible providers of adult
education, literacy, and workplace skills services;
(5) support the innovative uses of technology, such as the
use of assistive technology, to deliver content to adult
learners; and
(6) be accessible to the public through the website of the
Center.
SEC. 307. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this title,
$250,000,000 for fiscal year 2015 and such sums as may be necessary for
each succeeding fiscal year.
TITLE IV--RESEARCH IN ADULT EDUCATION
SEC. 401. RESEARCH IN ADULT EDUCATION.
(a) In General.--Subparagraph (A) of section 133(c)(2) of the
Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (20 U.S.C. 9533(c)(2)(A)) is
amended to read as follows:
``(A) Adult education, literacy, and workplace
skills.''.
(b) National Research and Development Center.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Education shall direct
the Commissioner for Education Research of the National Center
for Education Research established pursuant to section 131 of
the Education Sciences Reform Act of 2002 (20 U.S.C. 9531) to
establish a national research and development center for adult
education, literacy, and workplace skills as described in
section 133(c)(2)(A) of such Act (20 U.S.C. 9533(c)(2)(A)).
(2) Provision for expansion of research.--If, as of the
date of the enactment of this Act, the Commissioner for
Education Research of the National Center for Education
Research has established a center for adult literacy in
accordance with section 133(c)(2)(A) of the Education Sciences
Reform Act of 2002 (20 U.S.C. 9533(c)(2)(A)), the Commissioner
shall expand the topic of research of such center to include
adult education and workplace skills, in accordance with the
amendment made by subsection (a).
TITLE V--EMPLOYER INCENTIVES
SEC. 501. CREDIT FOR EMPLOYER EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--Subpart D of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end
the following new section:
``SEC. 45S. CREDIT FOR EMPLOYER EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS.
``(a) General Rule.--For purposes of section 38, in the case of an
employer, the employer educational assistance program credit determined
under this section for the taxable year is an amount equal to 50
percent of the qualified educational assistance expenses paid or
incurred by the taxpayer to or on behalf of any employee of the
taxpayer during the taxable year.
``(b) Limitations.--
``(1) Per employee limitation.--The amount of the qualified
educational assistance expenses taken into account under
subsection (a) with respect to any employee for the taxable
year shall not exceed $5,250.
``(2) Total limitation.--The aggregate amount of the
qualified educational assistance expenses taken into account
under subsection (a) with respect to all employees of the
taxpayer for the taxable year shall not exceed the average of
the aggregate qualified educational assistance expenses with
respect to all employees of the taxpayer taken into account
under subsection (a) in the 3 taxable years preceding such
taxable year.
``(3) Transition rule.--
``(A) In general.--In the case of a taxable year in
which qualified educational assistance expenses of the
taxpayer have not been taken into account under
subsection (a) for each of the 3 taxable years
preceding such taxable year, the aggregate amount of
the qualified educational assistance expenses taken
into account under subsection (a) with respect to all
employees of the taxpayer for such taxable year shall
not exceed the average of the sum of--
``(i) the aggregate qualified educational
assistance expenses with respect to all
employees of the taxpayer taken into account
under subsection (a) in any of the 3 taxable
years preceding such taxable year, plus
``(ii) the aggregate amount of amounts paid
or expenses incurred by the employer, for which
an exclusion was allowable to any employee of
the employer under section 127, in any of such
3 taxable years in which no expenses were taken
into account under subsection (a), plus
``(iii) in the case of a taxable year in
which expenses have not been taken into account
under subsection (a) or section 127 for each of
the 3 taxable years preceding such taxable
year, an amount equal to--
``(I) $5,250, multiplied by
``(II) the number of employees of
the taxpayer with respect to which the
taxpayer has qualified educational
assistance expenses in such taxable
year.
``(c) Qualified Educational Assistance Expenses.--For purposes of
this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualified educational
assistance expenses' means expenses paid for educational
assistance pursuant to an educational assistance program
(within the meaning of section 127(b)).
``(2) Educational assistance.--The term `educational
assistance' has the meaning given such term by section
127(c)(1), applied without regard to subparagraph (B) thereof,
except that such term includes a payment only if such payment
is made with respect to an employee enrolled in a program
provided at the workplace or outside of the workplace--
``(A) leading to a sub-baccalaureate degree or
career technical certificate awarded by an accredited
postsecondary institution; or
``(B) in basic education or English language
training leading to a nationally recognized certificate
of proficiency, or in workplace skills leading to an
industry-recognized credential described in section
101(56) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 that is
nationally recognized.
``(d) Other Definitions and Special Rules.--Rules similar to the
rules of paragraphs (2) through (5) of section 127(c) shall apply for
purposes of this section.
``(e) Denial of Double Benefit.--No deduction or other credit shall
be allowed under this chapter to an employer for any amount taken into
account in determining the credit under this section.''.
(b) Credit Included in General Business Credit.--Section 38(b) of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ``plus'' at
the end of paragraph (35), by striking the period at the end of
paragraph (36) and inserting ``, plus'', and by adding at the end the
following new paragraph:
``(37) the employer educational assistance program credit
determined under section 45S(a).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for subpart D of
part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 is amended by adding at the end the following new item:
``Sec. 45S. Credit for employer educational assistance programs.''.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall
apply to expenses relating to courses of instruction beginning after
December 31, 2013.
<all>
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Training.
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