Local partnerships would connect workers with jobs and recovery support

The Secretary would award competitive grants for a pilot program through eligible state or local boards and their partner organizations. Partnerships would serve workers directly or indirectly affected by widespread substance use, or workers seeking skills for jobs that support people with substance use disorders or people at risk. Applicants must show serious economic or workforce effects in the area, such as an economic downturn, persistent depressed conditions, or comparatively high unemployment or low workforce participation. Applicants must agree to pay at least part of the independent evaluation costs. Each grant would last two years.

The bill would authorize appropriations for the pilot program. The authorization is for grants under the proposed substance use crisis pilot program. These amounts are authorized for appropriation; the bill does not itself provide the money. The authorization covers fiscal years 2027 through 2032.