This week in Washington was a quiet week for federal policy, with Congress in recess for the Independence Day holiday until July 10. The biggest news this week was focused on Supreme Court rulings, several of which will impact higher education admissions and federal student loan forgiveness. When Congress returns, they will continue work on the FY 2024 appropriations process, but no dates have been announced for markups of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies bill in either chamber. Here are a few additional news items from this week:
- Department of Labor Welcomes Nominations for National Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship: The Department of Labor has announced that it is seeking nominations for members to serve on the Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship for the 2023-2025 term. Authorized by the National Apprenticeship Act, the committee advises the Secretary of Labor on ways to expand, modernize and diversify Registered Apprenticeship programs and provide equitable access for all workers to participate and succeed in the national apprenticeship system. Read more about the nomination process here.
- Department of Labor Awards Grants to Help Homeless Veterans Re-enter Workforce: The Department of Labor has announced over $58 million in grants awarded to support the efforts of organizations that help homeless veterans by enabling them to overcome barriers to re-entering the workforce and finding meaningful employment. Read more about the grants here.
- Department of Labor Awards Grants Provide Pre- and Post-Release Services for Re-entry Population: The Department of Labor has announced the award of grants to 17 organizations in 15 states to provide training, employment and supportive services to adults re-entering the workforce following incarceration in a local jail or state correctional facility. Learn more about the grants here.
- Department of Education Launches Application Process to Expand Pell Grant Access for Confined or Incarcerated Individuals: The Department of Education has launched a new process through which institutions of higher education can apply to offer postsecondary programs to confined or incarcerated individuals. The Department will begin accepting applications on July 3, 2023, and will approve applications on a rolling basis. Learn more about the process here.