STEM Restoring Employment Skills through Targeted Assistance, Re-entry, and Training Act; STEM RESTART Act
Summary
The STEM RESTART Act aims to support mid-career workers re-entering the STEM workforce. It amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to create a national program providing funding to small- and medium-sized STEM businesses. This funding enables these businesses to offer paid internships or returnships leading to above entry-level positions.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase the number of mid-career professionals in STEM fields. It will also provide financial support to STEM businesses for training and hiring programs. This could lead to increased innovation and economic growth within the STEM sector.
Potential Benefits
- Provides opportunities for mid-career workers to re-enter the STEM workforce.
- Offers funding to small- and medium-sized STEM businesses to create returnship programs.
- Prioritizes workers from rural areas, expanding opportunities in underserved communities.
- Encourages on-the-job evaluation, education, and training for skilled workers.
- Supports pathways toward advancement and leadership in STEM careers.
Potential Disadvantages
- The program's effectiveness depends on the ability of small- and medium-sized businesses to create sustainable returnship programs.
- There is a risk that funds may not be distributed efficiently or reach the intended beneficiaries.
- The program's success relies on adequate coordination with state boards and workforce programs.
- The 20% cap on funds used for existing employee compensation may limit program effectiveness.
- The program may not address the root causes of why mid-career professionals leave the STEM workforce.
Constitutional Alignment
The STEM RESTART Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). It promotes economic growth and provides opportunities for individuals to improve their skills and employment prospects. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).