(a) (1) An employer receiving assistance under the Program shall be located in the State.
(2) In order to receive assistance under the Program, an employer shall request training assistance in job-specific skills to upgrade or retain existing Maryland-based employees covered under Title 8 of the Labor and Employment Article.
(b) The Secretary shall give priority to employers that are:
(1) manufacturers; or
(2) threatened by the pressure of increased foreign or domestic competition.