Bill > SB193

This bill amends Delaware's labor laws to eliminate the "buy-out" option for contractors on public works projects, which previously allowed them to avoid participating in craft training programs by paying into the Apprenticeship and Training Fund. Specifically, the bill removes provisions that permitted contractors with 10 or more employees to make payments instead of actively participating in apprenticeship programs when working on prevailing wage public works projects. Under the new requirements, contractors must now satisfy the craft training requirement by either having an active apprentice in a training program, having an apprentice who completed a program within the past six months, or being a member of a training consortium. The changes aim to ensure that contractors invest directly in workforce development by creating or participating in actual apprenticeship programs, rather than simply paying a fee to avoid training responsibilities. This approach is intended to support skill development for workers, particularly targeting opportunities for low-income, minority, and female workers in the construction industry, while also helping local employers develop a skilled workforce through meaningful training programs.

Labor and Employment

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142620