119-HR-8110 Journalist Public Summary
119 · HR 8110 Cyber Ready Workforce Act
A bipartisan House bill would create a Labor Department grant program to grow registered cybersecurity apprenticeships aligned with NIST’s NICE framework, aiming to close a large talent gap; backers say it offers faster, paid paths into high‑demand jobs, while critics of similar apprenticeship expansions warn about added red tape; the measure was just introduced and awaits committee action. (fitzpatrick.house.gov) (cyberseek.org) (apnews.com)
Headline Summary
A bipartisan bill to fund cybersecurity apprenticeships through the Labor Department so employers can train and hire more cyber talent, faster. (fitzpatrick.house.gov)
What It Does
The Cyber Ready Workforce Act would set up a competitive grant program at the U.S. Department of Labor for “workforce intermediaries” (such as employer groups, community colleges, nonprofits, and workforce boards) to create and expand registered apprenticeships in cybersecurity. Grants would support classroom instruction, paid on‑the‑job training, and industry‑recognized certifications; programs are expected to align training to job roles in NIST’s NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework so skills match real employer needs. Support services like mentoring, career counseling, and help with transportation, housing, or child care could also be covered. (fitzpatrick.house.gov)
Who’s For It
- Lead sponsors: Rep. Susie Lee (D‑NV) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R‑PA). They argue apprenticeships will fill hundreds of thousands of open cyber jobs and offer paid, skills‑first pathways without four‑year degree debt. (fitzpatrick.house.gov)
- Senate allies: Sen. Jacky Rosen (D‑NV) and Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R‑TN) have championed companion versions in prior Congresses, saying Registered Apprenticeships can expand the cyber talent pipeline. (rosen.senate.gov)
- Apprenticeship advocates and federal workforce officials: DOL’s 2022 “Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Sprint” and ongoing Apprenticeship.gov initiatives highlight cybersecurity as a priority area for Registered Apprenticeships. (dol.gov)
Who’s Against It
- No formal, organized opposition specific to this bill is public yet. But recent debates over DOL apprenticeship rules show likely lines of criticism: business groups and some Republicans warn new requirements can add red tape, raise costs, and deter participation—concerns that could surface here. (apnews.com)
What’s Next
Status as of March 27, 2026: newly introduced in the House and awaiting committee action. Measures like this typically go to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce; earlier versions of the “Cyber Ready Workforce Act” were referred to Education and Labor. If it advances, expect a committee markup, a House floor vote, and then Senate consideration. (congress.gov)
Source for openings: CyberSeek national heat map. (cyberseek.org)
Discussion