The structure of the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) is built on the belief that flexibility and responsibility are necessary at the state and local levels to tailor successful programs. The purposely limited federal role allows state and local decisions to flourish. JTPA's private-public partnership has been a major public relations success with over 2 million persons placed at the highest wage rates ever experienced by a federally supported job training program. JTPA enters its sixth year of operations faced with a number of issues. National policy makers have raised the issue of whom should JTPA be serving. Although JTPA is serving those whom Congress intended, the federal government is suggesting other target populations. Both target groups and cost standards should be local decisions based on an assessment of local priorities and resources. The issue of what services should be provided shows similar signs of federal encroachment. Again, state and local policymakers are better equipped to judge community needs. The states understand the performance standards system, but improved technical assistance is needed. Better coordination with other programs is another goal. State and local councils should expand their role in coordinating all employment and training programs. (YLB)