The U.S. Department of Education released draft regulatory language for the new Workforce Pell program, setting the framework for short‑term training programs of eight to 15 weeks to access federal Pell Grants beginning July 2026. The proposal requires governors and state workforce boards to identify high‑skill, high‑wage occupations and document employer engagement before programs can seek Education Department approval. The draft also sets outcome‑based expectations for programs to remain eligible, and it requires programs to operate for at least one year prior to approval. Negotiated rulemaking begins next week with stakeholders including students, employers and college officials; if they reach consensus, the Education Department must use the agreed language when formally proposing rules. Stakeholders in higher education should track the negotiations closely: the final rules will shape short‑term program design, state approval processes, and the revenue mix for community colleges and training providers.