Labor Department Proposes Apprenticeship Changes

What happened: The Department of Labor (DOL) Dec. 14 released a pre-publication version of its proposed regulation to enhance its apprenticeship program.

Why it matters:  The DOL registered apprenticeship program allows employers to offer paid work experience and training opportunities to potential job seekers who may not have requisite skills and qualifications for work, helping recruit and retain workers to address workforce development needs. DOL estimates that 33 percent of all apprentices are in the construction industry.  ARTBA’s initial assessment of the proposed rule is that among DOL’s proposed changes would be the establishment of an Office of Apprenticeship, development of industry standards, and industry skills frameworks.

What’s next: Once published in the federal register, DOL’s rule will trigger a 60-day public comment period. The agency will also convene an informational webinar on Jan. 11 to provide a rule overview. ARTBA is conducting an exhaustive review of the proposal and will convene an informal member working group to discuss the rule once it’s published. Members interested in discussing the rule may contact ARTBA’s Prianka Sharma.