Bill > SB688

This bill modifies Maryland's apprenticeship requirements for public works contracts by establishing new rules for contractors and subcontractors. Starting January 1, 2026, contractors and subcontractors with four or more employees working on a covered project must employ qualified apprentices or journeyworkers to meet a mandated 20% of total labor hours. The bill eliminates previous provisions that allowed contractors to make payments to apprenticeship programs instead of directly employing apprentices. Contractors and subcontractors must now submit monthly reports detailing apprentice and journeyworker information, including names, associated training programs, and labor hours worked. If contractors fail to meet these requirements, they can be liable for financial penalties, including twice the amount of unpaid apprenticeship contributions and $100 per labor hour where the requirement was applicable. The bill also allows the Secretary of Labor to set the applicable apprenticeship percentage annually and grant waivers under specific circumstances, such as when contractors have requested but cannot obtain qualified apprentices from training programs. Importantly, the bill does not prevent local governments from establishing additional skilled workforce requirements for public works projects. The new regulations will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving contractors and the state time to prepare for the updated apprenticeship standards.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0688?ys=2025RS