This Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) Update provides a quick primer of some of the key areas where states have flexibility to develop their own programs and processes in the new Job Opportunities and Basic Skills (JOBS) program. This guide is organized in seven sections that cover the following topics: (1) introduction; (2) why local areas should be involved in the JOBS program; (3) reasons for JTPA to be involved; (4) the federal commitment; (5) flexibility in the JOBS structure (philosophy, coordination, program components, statewide scope, contracting, state plan, supportive services/child care); (6) how to be involved; and (7) practical resources (readings). (KC)