COLUMBUS, Ohio — The State of Ohio has released its draft 2026–2027 Combined State Plan for public comment, outlining proposed updates to better align workforce development, education, and employment programs across the state.
Ohio develops a Combined State Plan every four years to coordinate its core workforce and education programs and strengthen connections between employers and a skilled workforce. Federal law under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) requires states to review and update the plan every two years to reflect changing labor market conditions, economic trends, and program strategies.
The newly released Program Years 2026–2027 Two-Year Modification updates the state’s existing four-year plan, which covers the period from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028.
The draft plan includes proposed updates for the following programs:
- WIOA Title I, supporting OhioMeansJobs centers and employment and training services for adults, dislocated workers, and eligible youth
- Wagner-Peyser Employment Service, providing labor exchange and employment services to job seekers and employers
- Adult Basic and Literacy Education, including adult education, literacy instruction, and high school equivalency preparation
- Vocational Rehabilitation, administered by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, assisting individuals with disabilities in securing competitive integrated employment
- Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education, supporting career-technical education for secondary and post-secondary students
- Senior Community Service Employment Program, offering work-based training opportunities for older Ohioans
- Jobs for Veterans State Grants, which support employment services for veterans through OhioMeansJobs centers
State officials say the Combined State Plan is developed through collaboration among multiple agencies, workforce partners, and stakeholders, and is designed to align with federal priorities, including the U.S. Department of Labor’s America’s Talent Strategy, while addressing Ohio’s evolving workforce and economic needs.
The draft plan is now available for public review and comment through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website.
The 30-day public comment period will remain open until 5:00 p.m. on February 22, 2026. The Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education (Perkins V) portion of the plan will be open for a longer 60-day comment period, closing at 5:00 p.m. on March 24, 2026.
