Better Jobs through Evidence and Innovation Act

The Better Jobs through Evidence and Innovation Act creates a new competitive grant program to fund workforce development projects that have proven effective in improving employment and earnings outcomes. It directs federal funding to states, local boards, and community organizations to support innovative programs that address labor market needs, with a specific focus on helping individuals facing barriers to employment and serving rural areas. The bill establishes a tiered system requiring grantees to provide rigorous evaluations, such as randomized controlled trials, to demonstrate that their programs generate sustained positive results before they can receive larger expansion grants. Additionally, the legislation mandates that at least 50 percent of the available funds be reserved for expanding programs with high levels of evidence, while reserving up to 10 percent for technical assistance and research.