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CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION WITH THE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM State agencies must design the E&T program in consultation with the State workforce development board and operate the E&T program through the statewide workforce development system (7 CFR 273.7(c)(5)). The goal of this section is to explain the relationship between the State agency and other organizations it plans to consult and coordinate with for the provision of services, including organizations in the statewide workforce development system. The statewide workforce development system refers to a network of providers, which may include government and the public sector; community-based organizations and non-profits; employers and industry; occupational training providers; and post-secondary institutions, such as community colleges. Please note the State workforce development board is an entity that establishes Regional strategic plans and sets funding priorities for their area. They are distinct from State workforce agencies. Consultation Consultation with the workforce development system generally includes discussions to learn about services provided in the community and how each organization functions and coordinates with others in the community. State agencies can demonstrate they consulted with their State workforce development board by noting the dates of conversations, who they spoke with, what they spoke about, and how they incorporated this information into the design of their E&T program. Did the State agency consult the State workforce development board? Yes No Describe how the State agency consulted with the State workforce development board in designing its SNAP E&T program. Include the names, dates and outcomes of the consultation. Date State Workforce Development Board Name Title(s) of Person Consulted Outcome of Consultation 05/21/2025 Maine Department of Labor Christopher Quint Maine E&T RFQ information was shared and expanding collaboration with CareerCenters was also discussed. Maine E&T staff detailed the new referral process that results in more E&T referrals and increase demand for E&T providers. Maine E&T staff have received one inquiry about the RFQ process. As always, the DOL staff will continue to invite the E&T Program Manager to relevant Workforce board meetings as a non- voting guest. Coordination Coordination with the workforce development system consists of efforts to partner with workforce providers to directly serve SNAP E&T participants or to align the flow or types of services offered across programs. Describe any special State initiatives (i.e. Governor-initiated or through State legislation) that include SNAP E&T. Describe any efforts taken by the State agency to coordinate these programs, services, partners, and/or activities with the State's E&T program. N/A Describe the extent to which the State agency is carrying out SNAP E&T programs in coordination with title I programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Maine's largest E&T provider is a WIOA provider for three coastal counties and routinely co-enrolls participants as appropriate. 1/29/26, 8:19 AM State Plan ME FY26 - Original Submission https://dam-fns.usda.gov/sites/default/files/microsite/snapet-mefy26stateplan//index.html 4/68