GM 12-039

Workforce Investment Act Native American Employment and Training Grants

The Department of Labor (DOL) has announced in the attached March 16, 2012, FEDERAL REGISTER notice, the availability Program Year 2012 (July 1, 2012, through June 30, 2013) funds for adult and youth programs for employment and training services for Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. These funds are authorized under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA).

There is $46.7 million available for the adult program (also called the Section 166 WIA program), which is $5 million below the previous year’s level. There is $12 million for the youth program, the same level as the previous year.

The DOL is using its authority to grant waivers to most current grantees whereby they will not need to compete in order to continue their grant. The grants would be continued for Program Years 2012 and 2013 (July 1, 2012, through June 30, 2014). However, a grantee must still submit a letter informing the DOL of its interest in continuing its grant, submit a two-year plan, and still serve the entire geographic service Area. An Application for Federal Assistance Standard Form 424 must also be filed. The deadline for DOL receipt of these materials is April 18, 2012. A Budget Information Form and Budget Narrative are not required.

Entities interested in applying for these funds in some counties in Alabama; New Hampshire; Vermont; New York; Georgia; and North Carolina must go through the competition process.

The full announcement, including listing of grantees that are eligible for a waiver from competition, can be found on the DOL website at http://www.doleta.gov/grants.

Please let us know if we may provide additional information or assistance regarding the Native American Employment and Training program.