Earlier this week, House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott introduced H.R. 447, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021, which would reauthorize and update the existing 1937 law. The bill mirrors similar legislation introduced last Congress.
The bipartisan National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 (H.R. 447) would amend the existing national apprenticeship program to include both pre-apprenticeships and youth apprenticeships, while also defining guidelines for registered apprenticeship programs. Additionally, it would codify the Office of Apprenticeship within the Employment and Training Administration of the Department of Labor, specifies that it is to be headed by an Administrator, and outlines the responsibilities of the Office. It would also create a National Advisory Committee on Apprenticeships. To fund the provisions under the proposal, it authorizes over $3 billion between fiscal years 2022 and 2026. It is estimated that this proposal would lead to the creation of one million new apprenticeship opportunities, while yielding over $10 billion in net benefits to the American taxpayer.
In the press release, Chairman Scott states, “Congress must use every tool we have to address the widespread unemployment caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Apprenticeship Act is an important part of our renewed effort to help workers get back on their feet and build back a better economy.”
ACTE has endorsed the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 and Is actively advocating for its passage.
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