New requirements to become a WIOA eligible training provider

The CNMI State Workforce Development Board adopted during their June 17, 2020, meeting the updated federally mandated compliance requirements to the Eligible Training Provider Policy. 

The SWDB policy requires all entities interested in becoming an ETP or applying for WIOA assistance and services to apply for eligibility through the CNMI SWDB using the appropriate application forms, submitting all required information, and to comply with all the federally mandated performance levels. 

Upon submission of a complete application packet, the SWDB Program Committee will review each application for compliance and make formal recommendations to the entire SWDB for action of their decision to approve, disapprove, or ask for more information from applicants. 

Those with successfully approved applications will then work with the CNMI Department of Labor Workforce Investment Agency to establish and run the approved programs following the new implementation schedule, also recently adopted by the SWDB.

“Our CNMI SWD Board has been very active in efforts to meet federal performance compliance standards for training providers and for those partners who participate in DOL’s Work Experience Program.  We understand the labor market is very fragile, however we still need to look out for the best interests of our participants, meet federal requirements/investments, and place qualified individuals into the workforce,” said Labor Secretary Vicky Benavente.

Application packets can be picked up at the DOL-WIA office on Mednilla Avenue, Building 1353, Capital Hill, Saipan, or can be requested via email at cnmidolwia@gmail.com. 

The application submission, review, and implementation period is as follows:

-Application Pick Up and Submission: July 1 to July 30, 2020

-SWDB Review Period: Aug. 1 – Aug. 31, 2020

-Approved Applicant Agreement Period with DOL WIA: Sept. 1 to Sept. 30, 2020

-Project Start: Oct. 1, 2020

“Improved accountability between the SWDB and CNMI DOL was long due, and we encourage all interested entities to comply with the new federal requirements and apply by the submission date above. There will be three other chances to apply to be an ETP or for entities to receive WIOA services from DOL-WIA. Since we are implementing an entirely new policy, all past, present, and future entities are required to apply,” said SWDB chair Josephine Mesta.

For more information regarding the Eligible Training Provider Policy, contact the DOL-WIA office at 664-1757 or 664-1708. (PR)