MORELLE LEGISLATION TO BOLSTER APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES PASSED BY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Legislation would strengthen federal apprenticeship programs and help connect workers with jobs at a time when they’re needed most
(Rochester, NY) – Today, Congressman Joe Morelle announced that legislation he authored to strengthen apprenticeship opportunities was included in the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021, which passed in the House of Representatives on Friday.
"Apprenticeships are a proven investment to grow our workforce and strengthen our economy. With millions of Americans out of work, now is the time we must invest in these opportunities to set families on a path toward financial stability, security, and growth," said Congressman Joe Morelle. "That is why I am so proud that legislation I authored to increase apprenticeship participation and reduce barriers facing small businesses was recently passed as part of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2021."
Specifically, Rep. Morelle's legislation would promote participation in apprenticeships by lowering up-front costs that small and medium-sized businesses often face when getting these programs off the ground. If signed into law, grant awards could be used for:
- The creation or expansion of an apprenticeship program;
- Incumbent worker training as mentors or employees supervising apprentices;
- Wages for apprentices; and
- Technical assistance related to apprenticeships for small and medium-sized businesses.
These grant dollars would also prioritize apprenticeship opportunities for women, minorities, veterans, and Americans living with disabilities.
Rep. Morelle also co-sponsored two key amendments included in the National Apprenticeship Act:
- An amendment to ensure apprenticeships are accessible in multiple languages to promote youth apprenticeships and greater diversity in the national apprenticeship system.
- An amendment to ensure low-income individuals and others with barriers to employment are able to participate in apprenticeships, including in fields where such groups are underrepresented.
"The Registered Apprenticeship system is one of America's most successful workforce development programs, connecting struggling workers with high-wage jobs that uplift families and benefit local economies," added Congressman Morelle. "I am so proud to have helped craft this legislation and look forward to its swift passage by our partners in the Senate and White House."
As a member of the Committee on Rules, Rep. Morelle led the debate for the rule on the house floor for the National Apprenticeships Act.
The full text of Rep. Morelle's legislation, which was introduced as a standalone bill in the 116th congress, can be found here.
More information on the National Apprenticeships Act of 2021 can be found here.