ETAFinal Rule
Wagner-Peyser Act Staffing, Delay of Merit Staffing Compliance Date
Labor & WorkplaceEducation
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Summary
This federal rule delays the deadline for state employment agencies to adopt merit-based staffing practices under the Wagner-Peyser Act, which funds job placement services across the country. The postponement gives states more time to hire and promote workers based on qualifications rather than other factors, affecting how employment offices operate and serve job seekers.
Key Points
- 1The federal government is pushing back the deadline for states to switch to merit-based hiring for staff at employment agencies that help people find jobs
- 2Merit-based staffing means jobs go to the most qualified candidates based on their skills and experience, rather than other considerations
- 3This delay affects state workforce agencies that receive Wagner-Peyser funding to run job centers and employment services
- 4States now have additional time to update their hiring practices and train existing employees to meet the new staffing standards
- 5Job seekers may see changes in how employment agencies are staffed, though the immediate impact is postponed
Key Dates
Published
January 21, 2026
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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