Youth Workforce Readiness Act of 2021

The Youth Workforce Readiness Act of 2021 would establish a federal grant program through the Department of Labor to support workforce development for youth aged 6 to 18. These grants would be awarded to national youth-serving organizations to provide programs outside of school hours—such as after school, during the summer, or on weekends—focused on career exploration, leadership development, and occupational skills. For citizens, this means increased access to internships, on-the-job training, and mentorship programs designed to prepare young people for the modern workforce. Additionally, the bill would require local workforce development boards to create dedicated youth councils to better coordinate these services at the community level.