Policy context: In 2015, DOL instructed states to use their RESEA grants to implement programs that would require new UI claimants to undergo an eligibility review to confirm that they are compliant with state UI work-search requirements and receive services that would help them connect to available jobs. Vermont was among many states that adopted DOL’s recommendations.

Research design: Conduct an Implementation Study to assess the implementation of the Vermont RESEA program and identify strategies and practices used to provide services. The study will focus on three areas. First, it will examine the types of services and packages of services provided by the program, if services are consistently implemented across regions and populations, and if the program is compliant with Federal grant requirements. Second, it will examine the characteristics and outcomes of RESEA participants in the last four non-pandemic years (2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023), how these varied over time, and which services were most (or least) helpful for participants. Third, the Implementation Study will examine RESEA program

strategies and outcomes in other states (overall and in Region 1 in particular) and how these

compare with those in the Vermont RESEA program.

Policy impact: The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 authorized the permanent and nationwide implementation of the RESEA program and encouraged states to conduct evaluations to build evidence that meets the CLEAR high or moderate causal evidence rating requirement set by DOL. The current study will produce evidence that meets the CLEAR high causal evidence criteria, thereby contributing to the portfolio of evidence-based practices in this policy area and justifying continued Federal funding for the Vermont RESEA program.