Bill > H4994

This bill aims to expand apprenticeship opportunities in the Commonwealth by requiring that for public works projects costing over $10,000,000, construction managers, general contractors, and subcontractors must maintain or participate in an approved apprentice program for each trade represented in their workforce, with specific percentages of work hours dedicated to apprentices that will phase in over time (initially 5%, then 10%, and finally 15%). The bill defines key terms like "Apprentice," "Apprenticeable occupation," and "Apprentice program" by referencing existing statutes and establishes the "Division" as the division of apprentice standards within the executive office of labor and workforce development. It also outlines conditions for awarding construction contracts, including the registration of apprentices and compliance with apprentice-to-journeyperson ratios, while providing an exemption process for public agencies if qualified bidders with apprentice programs are unavailable. Furthermore, the bill establishes a special commission to study and make recommendations on apprenticeships across all industry sectors, with a report due by January 1, 2027.

House Committee on Ways and Means (House)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4994