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Workforce Investment Act (WIA)

The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) was signed into law on August 7, 1998, capping a seven-year effort to consolidate and streamline the nation's employment and training programs. WIA replaced the Job Training Partnership Act (JPTA), enacted October 13, 1982. Under WIA, the federal government, states, and local communities join efforts to develop a system providing workers with job search assistance, training, and advice. In addition, all entities will work together to provide employers with skilled workers. The purpose of the Workforce Investment Act is to provide workforce development services, through statewide and local workforce investment systems, that increase the employment, retention, and earnings of participants, and increase occupational skill attainment by participants, and, as a result, improve the quality of the workforce, reduce welfare dependency, and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the State of Maryland and the Nation.

Funds for the WIA Title I program flow from the United States Department of Labor through the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation/Office of Employment Training (DLLR/OET). The OET, using a formula based on the population mix in each locality, allocates the WIA funds to Workforce Investment Areas (WIAs) throughout the State.

For more information about the Workforce Investment Act, please visit Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.

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