The U.S. Department of Labor announced $12.2 million to 13 states through the Workforce Data Quality Initiative. Iowa Workforce Development is receiving $1 million over the next three years. These funds enable states to build or expand longitudinal databases of workforce data that also link to education data. States will use these databases to conduct research and analysis aimed at pinpointing the effectiveness of employment and training programs to better inform workforce system customers. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis says “By developing and improving databases, states will help those seeking training make better informed decisions, all while more clearly demonstrating the link between employment and education in the long-term success of workers.”