Coalition Comments on DOL’s Apprenticeship Rule

ARTBA and coalition partners sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Labor on its proposed modifications to the national apprenticeship program. The DOL-registered apprenticeship program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to offer paid work experience and training opportunities to job seekers. The agency estimates that 33 percent of all apprentices are in the construction industry. DOL’s proposal would add many new requirements to the apprenticeship program modifying certain wage and benefit requirements, certification, and reporting. Both employers and administrators of apprenticeship programs would be significantly impacted. In comments, ARTBA and allies stressed that the proposal creates significant new administrative burdens and costs to employer sponsors of the program. The group stressed that DOL must maintain flexibility for program participants. Given that apprenticeship requirements are voluntary, if the agency makes it too onerous and costly, ARTBA is concerned that employers will simply elect not to participate or will do so at minimum levels required by states.