Congress passed a bipartisan reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, one of the key federal programs that supports vocational education programs that align with local workforce needs and lead to industry-recognized credentials. The bill, which President Trump quickly signed, funds $7.5 billion in Department of Education grants through 2024.
The legislation allows states to set their own goals for CTE programs without the U.S. education secretary’s approval. It also gives businesses an opportunity to provide input on workforce development curricula, and requires educators and state and local education officials to consult with employers at virtually every state of planning, launching, implementing and evaluating a career education program or pathway.
