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Statement of Need: The purpose of title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 is to provide workforce investment activities, through statewide and local workforce investment systems, that increase the employment, retention, and earnings of participants, and skill attainment of participants, and as a result, improve the quality of the workforce, reduce welfare dependency, and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the Nation. The Employment and Training Administration will issue regulations and other guidance and provide technical assistance that will focus State and local efforts towards the program's goal while allowing maximum local flexibility. The Department of Labor and its partners must move quickly to implement the reforms contained in the legislation. The law requires that interim final regulations be published no later than 180 days after the date of enactment and that final regulations be published no later than December 31, 1999.

Alternatives: Regulatory alternatives will be developed once determinations have been made with regard to the scope and nature of the regulatory guidance necessary to carry out new provisions under the new legislation, the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits: Preliminary estimates of the anticipated costs of this newly enacted legislation have not been determined at this time, but will be at a later date. It is anticipated, however, that successful implementation of this legislation will result in changes in the way this country's employment and training programs do business, and will ensure that Americans have the training they need to qualify for good jobs and successfully manage their careers. The Act consolidates more than 60 Federal programs. It will significantly enhance the ability of State and local areas to effectively implement welfare reform and move welfare recipients from welfare to work. It establishes a single delivery system for adult employment and training and for dislocated worker employment and training that maximizes choice in the selection of occupations and training providers. Under the Act, individuals with disabilities will have access to a comprehensive job training system capable of serving all. Unemployed individuals with disabilities will have broader job opportunities allowing them to re-enter or in some cases enter the workforce for the first time.

Risks: This action does not affect public health, safety, or the environment.