ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes current federal workforce development and prisoner reentry policies and programs. It examines two federal approaches: four programs funded through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), namely, adult program, youth activities, Job Corps, and YouthBuild. Three types of tax and financial incentives for employers, namely, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, the Empowerment Zone Employment Tax Credit, and the Federal Bonding Program. The chapter evaluates current federal workforce development programs in terms of their duplication and the need for rigorous evaluation. The WIA mandates the establishment of state and local Workforce Investment Boards. For adults, eighteen years and older, the One-Stop system, offering a full array of employment-related services under one roof, provides core services and access to intensive services and authorized training services. Under the WIA youth programs, administered by the US Department of Labor, youths receive assessments and services that provide them with education, skills training, and various supportive services.
