SHRM Supports Workforce of the Future Act
U.S. Sens. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del.; Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii; and Adam Schiff, D-Calif., have introduced the Workforce of the Future Act, which is designed to help workers and employers navigate the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
The bill would require a joint report from the secretaries of Labor, Commerce, and Education analyzing AI’s impact on jobs, industries, and the skills that workers will need to thrive. The findings from the report are intended to guide education and workforce programs in preparing employees for evolving roles.
Key provisions include:
- Education Grants: $160 million to expand access to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) and advanced technology learning. Grants may support teacher training, recruitment, high-quality materials, industry partnerships, and programs for underrepresented students.
- Workforce Training Grants: $90 million to help workers most impacted by AI, prevent displacement, and provide rapid reskilling support.
SHRM proudly endorses the legislation, joining organizations including Microsoft, OpenAI, and the American Federation of Teachers. The bill aligns with SHRM’s commitment to helping HR professionals lead workforce planning, reskilling, and development initiatives in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
For HR professionals, the Workforce of the Future Act presents opportunities to leverage federal resources for training and development, anticipate workforce disruptions, and proactively support employees as AI adoption grows. SHRM has written a letter of support for the bill.
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