National Apprenticeship Act of 2021
Many young people and those switching careers can benefit from quality apprenticeship programs. This would help train for great paying jobs as well as provide for a wealth of highly skilled workers.
Introduced 1/25/21 Cosponsored by Congresswoman Angie Craig 1/28/21
Summary:
from Congress.gov
This bill provides statutory authority for the registered apprenticeship program within the Department of Labor, provides for related grant programs, and contains related provisions.
The bill provides statutory authority for the Office of Apprenticeship (OA) within Labor. The OA’s responsibilities include:
- supporting the development of apprenticeship models
- recognizing qualified state apprenticeship agencies, and operating apprenticeship offices in states without a recognized agency
- providing technical assistance to state agencies
- periodically updating requirements for each occupation in the apprenticeship program and determining whether to approve new occupations for the program
- promoting greater diversity in the national apprenticeship system;
- awarding grants provided under this bill.
The bill also establishes in statute the responsibilities of state apprenticeship agencies and offices, including (1) providing technical assistance to stakeholders, (2) resolving complaints, (3) establishing state performance goals, and (4) including in its written plan a description of how its apprenticeship programs align with the skills needs of the state’s employers.
The OA shall enter into an agreement with the Department of Education to promote the integration and alignment of apprenticeship programs with secondary, postsecondary, and adult education.
The OA shall award grants to eligible entities to (1) expand national apprenticeship system programs, including by expanding pre-apprenticeship and youth apprenticeship programs; (2) encourage employer participation; and (3) strengthen alignment between the apprenticeship system and education providers.
The bill provides statutory authority for criteria for various programs, including (1) quality standards for apprenticeships, (2) requirements for apprenticeship agreements between a program sponsor and an apprentice, and (3) acceptable uses for grant funds awarded under this bill.
Track progress of this bill at Gov.track
Follow Up:
- Have you benefited from an apprenticeship program?
- Wish there had been one for you or someone you know?
Share your story with CD2Action and we will add it to this post and share it with Congresswoman Craig’s office. She has already co-sponsored this bill, but hearing constituents’ stories may help her convince other lawmakers when it comes time to vote! Our voices matter!