Contracts for training rather than ITAs may be used when there is an insufficient number of eligible providers in a local area.  This exception applies primarily to rural areas.

1. When the LWIB determines that there are an insufficient number of eligible providers in the local area to accomplish the purpose of a system of ITAs, the local plan must describe the process to be used in selecting the providers under a contract for services.
2. This process must include a public comment period for interested providers of at least thiry (30) days. 
3. An LWIA that has determined that there are insufficient eligible providers in the local area to accomplish the purposes of the Act and complies with the requirements of the Act may use ITAs to a limited degree or not at all.
   1. This provision may be interpreted as a “blanket” waiver regarding the requirement to the use of ITAs.
   2. However, given the current widespread use of ITAs in all areas of Illinois (including rural areas), it is not expected that this provision could be justified on a blanket basis.
   3. However, there may be instances when one (1) or more programs are either unavailable altogether or are available from one (1) or a very few eligible providers - resulting in limited choice for training consumers.
   4. In such cases it is more justifiable to apply this provision on an exception basis rather than as a blanket.
   5. Applying this exception on a program-by-program basis is more consistent with the direction provided in federal rule that exceptions to the use of ITAs be infrequent.
   6. Therefore, an LWIB may invoke this provision on a program-by-program basis.
   7. The LWIB must document the formal action determining that there are an insufficient number of eligible providers and make appropriate modifications to the local plan to support the exception(s).
   8. To the extent exceptions are made, such an LWIA will be considered to be in compliance, regardless of the percent of combined adult and dislocated worker training funds expended through these contracts or the proportion of customers served through ITAs.
   9. However, it is expected that the LWIB will continue to make efforts to maximize customer choice of training options under the contract-for-services procurement approach.
   10. Contracts for training entered into under this exception may only be to eligible training providers and these programs must be on the State list of certified training programs.