This bill amends the Workforce Development Act of December 18, 2001, to enhance the definitions and responsibilities of local workforce development boards in Pennsylvania. Key additions include the definitions of "aggregated statistical form," "application for benefits," "data dashboard," and "new hire database," which aim to clarify the types of data that can be utilized for workforce development purposes. Furthermore, the bill mandates that local workforce development boards receive and utilize information from the new hire database and unemployment data when developing local plans and assessing program eligibility, while also allowing for exemptions upon written request.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for technical assistance and data availability, requiring the Center for Workforce Information and Analysis to develop a data dashboard that provides accessible and user-friendly data for local boards. It outlines the responsibilities of the local boards in terms of performance accountability, including the use of unemployment compensation information for evaluating program performance and ensuring confidentiality in data handling. The act emphasizes that no fees may be charged for accessing this data, thereby promoting transparency and efficiency in workforce development efforts. The provisions of this act will take effect six months after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 55 (Jan 22, 2025): P.L.949, No.114
Printer's No. 986 (Jun 24, 2025): P.L.949, No.114
Printer's No. 0055: P.L.949, No.114