On Friday, March 27th, Brett Lacy, Managing Director of Workforce Solutions with the Atlanta Regional Commission, joined MAX to offer a clear-eyed look at the federal workforce funding system and the growing instability surrounding it. Lacy traced how in-depth overview of how federal workforce funding flows from Congress to local communities and the growing challenges facing Georgia’s workforce system. The discussion highlighted increasing uncertainty around federal reauthorization and appropriations, including competing legislative proposals that could impact workforce programs at both the state and local levels.
A central theme of the discussion was the challenge Georgia continues to face under Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) formula funding. Because allocations are heavily tied to unemployment and poverty metrics, Georgia’s low unemployment rate has reduced its share of national funds despite population growth and strong job creation. The result has been steep declines for local workforce boards, including nearly a 50 percent funding reduction over the past decade in the Atlanta region.
To counter these losses, Lacy highlighted alternative funding strategies, with particular emphasis on SNAP Employment & Training. Unlike WIOA, SNAP E&T includes a 50/50 reimbursement model that allows providers to leverage non-federal dollars to draw down additional federal funds, offering greater flexibility and growth potential. Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships were also identified as rising priorities, with Georgia moving toward pay-for-performance models.
Looking ahead, Lacy’s discussion provided the following key takeaways for workforce partners:
- Expect continued pressure on traditional WIOA funding in Georgia.
- Diversify funding by leveraging SNAP E&T, apprenticeship funds, vocational rehabilitation resources, and philanthropic investments.
- Build strong relationships with local workforce boards and fiscal agents to better understand funding cycles, procurement rules, and cash flow considerations.
- Strengthen regional partnerships to improve competitiveness for discretionary grants and emerging funding opportunities.
- Stay engaged with policy developments and advocacy efforts to ensure local workforce needs are reflected in federal decision-making.
Special thanks to MAX board lead for MAX Minutes Chris Kidd, Director of Economic Development with the University System of Georgia, for hosting the session.
Click here to view a recording.
Click here for the presentation slides.