In 1983, management of public policy regarding vocational training in France was partially entrusted to France's regional authorities. However, division of responsibility for defining and implementing vocational training programs and policies among state, regional authorities, and professional organizations remained an issue. The regions were given responsibility for the construction, maintenance, and physical operation of vocational school buildings themselves; however, the state retained control over management of the public service of teaching. Each region established and financed its own regional training program for continuing vocational education while the state retained the prerogative for the legislative and regulatory framework of continuing vocational training. The regions were left free to evaluate their needs for and organize apprenticeship programs. France's most recent 5-year law, passed in 1993, reinforced the regional powers first granted in 1983 by making the regions responsible for the training of youth who lack jobs and job skills outside the school system. It also expanded the regions' role as leaders and coordinators by establishing a Regional Development Plan for Vocational Training for Young People. Concern has been expressed that increasing local management of education may shift too much attention to short-term objectives to the detriment of defining and pursuing longer-term educational objectives. (MN)