Indy Standard

U.S. Senators Todd Young of Indiana and Jack Reed of Rhode Island have reintroduced the Adult Education Workforce Opportunity and Reskilling for Knowledge and Success Act (Adult Education WORKS Act). This legislation aims to reauthorize and expand adult education programs, linking to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

Recent data from the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies indicate declining literacy and numeracy skills in U.S. adults between 2017 and 2023, with low performance levels rising notably. Research commissioned by the Barbara Bush Foundation suggests significant economic benefits if adult education can elevate reading levels, projecting a potential $2.2 trillion addition to annual income.

Senator Young emphasized the necessity of strengthening adult education to equip individuals for modern economic demands. "It's critical that all Hoosiers have the tools necessary to succeed in the modern economy - and that starts with strengthening adult education," he stated.

The Adult Education WORKS Act aims to nearly double funding for adult education to $1.35 billion by 2030. Key aspects of the legislation include enhancing digital and information literacy, expanding the role of adult education providers, and investing in the professional development of adult educators. "Strengthening adult education programs is essential to growing our economy and ensuring business owners have enough qualified workers," said Senator Reed.

The bill, if passed, would amend and reauthorize components of WIOA, a measure originally signed into law to help job seekers and employers connect effectively. In the House, Representatives Lucy McBath and Frank Mrvan have also introduced companion legislation.

The initiative has garnered support from several educational and advocacy groups, including the Coalition for Adult Basic Education (COABE) and the American Library Association (ALA). COABE's CEO Sharon Bonney remarked on the importance of investment in adult education to bridge skills gaps and improve workforce readiness. ALA President Cindy Hohl endorsed the Act's potential to enhance employment services offered through libraries.

Additional endorsements came from the National Coalition for Literacy and the TESOL International Association, each highlighting the Act's potential to improve foundational skills and expand employment opportunities.