Bill > H5032

This bill establishes new requirements for apprentices on public works projects in the Commonwealth, aiming to increase the use of apprentices in various trades. For public works contracts exceeding $10,000,000, construction managers, general contractors, and subcontractors will be required to maintain or participate in an approved apprentice program for each trade they employ, with specific percentages of work hours dedicated to apprentices, starting at 5% and gradually increasing to 15% over several years. These programs must be approved by the Division of Apprentice Standards, and apprentices must be registered and adhere to established ratios of apprentices to journey-level workers (experienced tradespeople). While exemptions are possible if no qualified bidders with apprentice programs are available, these must be well-documented and project-specific. The bill also creates a special commission to study and make recommendations on apprenticeships across all industries, with a focus on public works, construction, transportation, and infrastructure, and requires this commission to report its findings and any proposed legislation by January 1, 2027.

Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H5032