The Workforce Investment Act

The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) was a U.S. law enacted in 1998 to improve job training and employment services. It aimed to connect job seekers with employers, enhance workforce skills, and support economic growth. WIA provided funding for local workforce development boards, job training programs, and targeted dislocated workers and youth. It intended to make employment services more accessible, efficient, and aligned with labor market needs. In 2014, WIA was replaced by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which built on its goals to better prepare Americans for the changing job market.