Workforce Education That Works for American Families

Working Families Tax Cuts Act Delivers Big Wins

The Challenge

College costs keep rising, but outcomes are not keeping pace.

• 111.4% tuition inflation outpaced wage inflation from 2000–2020
• $1.693 trillion federal student loan debt
• $39,547 avg. student loan balance
• 1/4 unemployed Americans have at least a four-year degree
• 1.7 Million skilled workers gap in the trades

What the Law Does

• Creates Workforce Pell Grants. Supports short-term, career-focused training for in-demand jobs.
• Expands 529 Savings Flexibility. Allows families to use education savings for credentials, industry certifications, apprenticeships, licensing, and continuing education fees.
• Holds Colleges Accountable. Ties federal aid eligibility to whether programs lead to better earnings and employment outcomes.

Why it Matters

• More Pathways. Students earn industry-recognized, job-aligned credentials with little to no debt.
• More Flexibility. Allows families to use education savings for credentials, industry certifications, apprenticeships, licensing, and continuing education fees.
• More Accountability. Colleges must show their programs lead to higher earnings and good-paying jobs.

Bottom Line

The law benefits American workers by making workforce education more affordable, more accountable, and better aligned with in-demand jobs.