STEM RESTART Act

The STEM RESTART Act creates a new federal grant program to help mid-career workers (unemployed or underemployed, particularly from rural areas) return to STEM careers through "returnship" programs. It provides funding for small businesses (50-499 employees) to receive $100,000-$1 million annually and medium businesses (500-9,999 employees) to receive $500,000-$5 million annually to develop these programs. The grants require programs to last at least 10 weeks, provide above-entry-level compensation and benefits, and lead to full-time employment with career advancement opportunities. Businesses must report annually on participant demographics and employment outcomes, with the Secretary required to publish best practices based on these reports. The bill authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2026-2030 to fund these initiatives.