US SB2855

Secretary of Labor would award competitive grants to community colleges, career and technical education centers, and industry partnerships to develop workforce training programs using immersive technology (virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality)

Grants would fund career pathways providing education and training for in-demand occupations, with priority given to programs serving individuals with employment barriers, rural communities, veterans, and workers from declining industries

Grant period limited to 5 years maximum per recipient, with no subsequent grants for the same purpose allowed

Secretary must reserve 1-5% of annual funding for independent evaluation and technical assistance, and must publish best practices for immersive technology training on the Department of Labor website within 3 years

Authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2035 ($500 million total over 10 years)