WORKER Act

HR 3699, the WORKER Act, directs the U.S. Department of Energy to prioritize workforce training for energy and manufacturing jobs through existing federal grant programs. It requires the Secretary to focus on specific sectors (like renewable energy, oil/gas, nuclear, coal, and manufacturing) and emphasize training for underrepresented groups, including minorities, women, and veterans. The bill mandates creating a clearinghouse for workforce resources, strengthening outreach to minority-serving institutions and dislocated workers, and collaborating with industry partners to share best practices. Crucially, it prohibits creating new programs or forcing schools to adopt specific curricula, and requires using existing funds without additional appropriations.