Congressional Record, House, November 19, 2020 — H.R. 8294 National Apprenticeship Act of 2020
Summary
This is page H5950 of the Congressional Record, House, November 19, 2020, with the pages that follow it. It prints a list of members recorded on a vote, a communication from the Clerk of the House reporting messages from the Senate, and an announcement by the Speaker pro tempore that enrolled bills were signed by the Speaker on Thursday, November 19, 2020. Under National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, Mr. Scott of Virginia calls up H.R. 8294, a bill to amend the National Apprenticeship Act, pursuant to House Resolution 1224, and the text of the bill as amended follows. A letter closing with the name Brian Crawford, Executive Vice President, Government Affairs, urges the House to swiftly pass H.R. 8294, and Mr. Panetta speaks under the heading Honoring Lester Shoff.
Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used
Cite this document
“Congressional Record, House, November 19, 2020 — H.R. 8294 National Apprenticeship Act of 2020.”
Original at www.govinfo.gov. Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/crec-crec-2020-11-19-crec-2020-11-19-pt1-pgh5950-3-66a3899cca/
, SHA-256 0bb359ab95d1a43b7436b592b95a7626ef81db87247db384238ac8e54b625c48.Full text
H5950 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
Crenshaw Joyce (PA) Rouzer Ruiz (Dingell) Serrano Watson Coleman viding the aircraft, vehicles, weaponry,
Curtis Katko Roy Rush (Jeffries) (Pallone)
Davidson (OH) Keller Rutherford Welch
ammunition and other material to win
(Underwood) Speier (Scanlon)
Davis, Rodney Kelly (MS) Scalise Ryan (Kildee) Titus (Connolly) (McGovern) the war, that were referred to as
DesJarlais Kelly (PA) Schweikert Schrier (Heck) Vargas (Correa) Wilson (FL) ‘‘Rosie the Riveter’’, in recognition of
Diaz-Balart King (IA) Scott, Austin (Hayes) their contributions to the United
Dunn Kinzinger Shimkus
Emmer Kustoff (TN) f States and the inspiration they have
Simpson
Estes LaHood Smith (MO) provided to ensuing generations;
Fitzpatrick LaMalfa COMMUNICATION FROM THE H.R. 3589, to award a Congressional
Smith (NE)
Fleischmann Latta Smith (NJ) CLERK OF THE HOUSE Gold Medal to Greg LeMond, in rec-
Fortenberry Long
Foxx (NC) Loudermilk
Smucker The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. ognition of his service to the Nation as
Spano an athlete, activist, role model, and
Fulcher Lucas Stauber
VEASEY) laid before the House the fol-
Gallagher Marshall Stefanik lowing communication from the Clerk community leader;
Garcia (CA) Massie
Steil of the House of Representatives: H.R. 4104, to require the Secretary of
Gibbs Mast
Gohmert McCarthy
Steube
OFFICE OF THE CLERK, the Treasury to mint a coin in com-
Stewart memoration of the 100th anniversary of
Gonzalez (OH) McCaul
Stivers
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
Gooden McClintock Washington, DC, November 19, 2020. the establishment of the Negro
Taylor
Gosar McHenry Hon. NANCY PELOSI, Leagues baseball;
Granger McKinley Thompson (PA)
Thornberry The Speaker, House of Representatives, H.R. 5901, to establish a program to
Graves (LA) Meuser
Graves (MO) Miller Tiffany Washington, DC. facilitate the adoption of modern tech-
Griffith Moolenaar Timmons DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the nology by executive agencies, and for
Tipton permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II
Grothman Mooney (WV)
Turner
other purposes;
Guest Mullin of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- H.R. 8472, to provide that, due to the
Guthrie Murphy (NC) Upton
tives, the Clerk received the following mes- disruptions caused by COVID–19, appli-
Hagedorn Norman Van Drew
sage from the Secretary of the Senate on No-
Harris Nunes Wagner cations for impact aid funding for fis-
Walden vember 19, 2020, at 11:36 a.m.:
Hartzler Palazzo
That the Senate passed S. 512.
cal year 2022 may use certain data sub-
Hern, Kevin Palmer Walker
Walorski That the Senate passed S. 2847. mitted in the fiscal year 2021 applica-
Herrera Beutler Pence
Hice (GA) Perry Watkins That the Senate passed S. 2904. tion;
Higgins (LA) Posey Weber (TX) That the Senate passed S. 3257. S. 327, to amend the Federal Lands
Hill (AR) Reed Webster (FL) That the Senate passed S. 3461. Recreation Enhancement Act to pro-
Hollingsworth Reschenthaler Wenstrup
Westerman
That the Senate passed S. 3462. vide for a lifetime National Rec-
Hudson Rice (SC)
Williams
That the Senate passed S. 3839. reational Pass for any veteran with a
Hurd (TX) Riggleman
Jacobs Roby Wilson (SC) That the Senate passed S. 4126. service-connected disability;
Johnson (LA) Rodgers (WA) Wittman That the Senate passed without amend- S. 3147, to require the Secretary of
Johnson (OH) Roe, David P. Womack ment H.R. 1833. Veterans Affairs to submit to Congress
Johnson (SD) Rogers (AL) Woodall That the Senate passed without amend-
Jordan Rooney (FL) Yoho reports on patient safety and quality of
ment H.R. 3207.
Joyce (OH) Rose, John W. Zeldin That the Senate passed without amend- care at medical centers of the Depart-
NOT VOTING—30 ment H.R. 3317. ment of Veterans Affairs, and for other
That the Senate passed without amend- purposes;
Abraham Gaetz Mitchell
Aderholt Gianforte Newhouse ment H.R. 3329. S. 3587, to require the Secretary of
Amodei Green (TN) Olson That the Senate passed without amend- Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on
Cárdenas Holding Richmond ment H.R. 4734. the accessibility of websites of the De-
Carter (TX) Huizenga Rogers (KY) That the Senate passed without amend- partment of Veterans Affairs to indi-
Cheney King (NY) Sensenbrenner ment H.R. 4794.
Collins (GA) Lamborn Walberg
viduals with disabilities, and for other
That the Senate passed without amend- purposes.
Duncan Lesko Waltz
ment H.R. 4981.
Ferguson Luetkemeyer Wright
That the Senate passed without amend- f
Flores Marchant Young
ment H.R. 5037. NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP ACT
b 1458 That the Senate passed without amend- OF 2020
ment H.R. 5384.
Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio changed his With best wishes, I am, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
vote from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ Sincerely, pursuant to House Resolution 1224, I
So the resolution was agreed to. CHERYL L. JOHNSON, call up the bill (H.R. 8294) to amend the
The result of the vote was announced Clerk. National Apprenticeship Act and ex-
as above recorded. f pand the national apprenticeship sys-
A motion to reconsider was laid on tem to include apprenticeships, youth
the table. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER apprenticeships, and pre-apprentice-
MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE
PRO TEMPORE ship registered under such Act, to pro-
RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- mote the furtherance of labor stand-
Barragán (Beyer) Garamendi Lowey (Tonko) ant to clause 4 of rule 1, the following ards necessary to safeguard the welfare
Beatty (Fudge) (Sherman) McEachin enrolled bills were signed by the of apprentices, and for other purposes,
Blumenauer Gonzalez (TX) (Wexton) and ask for its immediate consider-
(Beyer) (Gomez) Meng (Kuster
Speaker on Thursday, November 19,
Bonamici (Clark Grijalva (Garcı́a (NH)) 2020: ation.
(MA)) (IL)) Moore (Beyer) H.R. 835, to impose criminal sanc- The Clerk read the title of the bill.
Boyle, Brendan Hastings Nadler (Jeffries) tions on certain persons involved in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
F. (Jeffries) (Wasserman Napolitano ant to House Resolution 1224, the
Brownley (CA) Schultz) (Correa) international doping fraud conspir-
(Clark (MA)) Higgins (NY) Payne acies, to provide restitution for victims amendment in the nature of a sub-
Bustos (Kuster (Sánchez) (Wasserman of such conspiracies, and to require stitute recommended by the Com-
(NH)) Jayapal (Raskin) Schultz)
sharing of information with the United mittee on Education and Labor, print-
Carson (IN) Johnson (TX) Perlmutter ed in the bill, modified by the amend-
(Cleaver) (Jeffries) (Neguse) States Anti-Doping Agency to assist
Castro (TX) Keating (Kuster Peterson its fight against doping, and for other ment printed in part A of House Report
(Garcia (TX)) (NH)) (McCollum) purposes; 116–593, is adopted and the bill, as
Clay (Cleaver) Kirkpatrick Pingree (Kuster
H.R. 1668, to establish minimum se- amended, is considered read.
Cohen (Beyer) (Stanton) (NH)) The text of the bill, as amended, is as
Costa (Cooper) Langevin Pocan (Raskin) curity standards for Internet of Things
Courtney (Hayes) (Lynch) Porter (Wexton) follows:
devices owned or controlled by the Fed-
H.R. 8294
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
DeGette (Blunt Lawrence Price (NC)
Rochester) (Kildee) (Butterfield)
eral Government, and for other pur-
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep-
DeSaulnier Lawson (FL) Rooney (FL) poses; resentatives of the United States of America in
(Matsui) (Demings) (Beyer) H.R. 1773, to award a Congressional Congress assembled,
Escobar (Garcia Lieu, Ted (Beyer) Rose (NY) Gold Medal, collectively, to the women
(TX)) Lofgren (Jeffries) (Golden) SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
Frankel (Clark Lowenthal Roybal-Allard in the United States who joined the This Act may be cited as the ‘‘National Ap-
(MA)) (Beyer) (Bass) workforce during World War II, pro- prenticeship Act of 2020’’.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.008 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5951
SEC. 2. EFFECTIVE DATE. ‘‘(7) APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.—The term ing mastered the skills and competencies re-
This Act, and the amendments made by this ‘apprenticeship program’ means a program that quired for the occupation.
Act, shall take effect beginning on July 1, 2021. meets the standards described in section 122(b) ‘‘(15) NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM.—The
SEC. 3. AMENDMENT. and is registered under this Act. term ‘national apprenticeship system’ means the
The Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly referred ‘‘(8) COMPETENCY.—The term ‘competency’ apprenticeship programs, youth apprenticeship
to as the ‘‘National Apprenticeship Act’’; 50 means the attainment of knowledge, skills, and programs, and pre-apprenticeship programs that
Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 et seq.), is abilities in a subject area, as specified by an oc- meet the requirements of this Act.
amended to read as follows: cupational skill standard and demonstrated by ‘‘(16) NONTRADITIONAL APPRENTICESHIP POPU-
‘‘SEC. 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. an appropriate written or hands-on proficiency LATION.—The term ‘nontraditional apprentice-
measurement. ship population’ means a group of individuals
‘‘(a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as
‘‘(9) DEPARTMENT.—The term ‘Department’ (such as a group of individuals from the same
the ‘National Apprenticeship Act’.
means the Department of Labor. gender or race), the members of which comprise
‘‘(b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con-
‘‘(10) EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROVIDER.— fewer than 25 percent of the program partici-
tents for this Act is as follows:
The term ‘education and training provider’ pants in an apprenticeable occupation under
‘‘Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. means— the national apprenticeship system.
‘‘Sec. 2. Definitions. ‘‘(A) an area career and technical education ‘‘(17) NONTRADITIONAL APPRENTICESHIP INDUS-
‘‘Sec. 3. Programs under the national appren- school; TRY OR OCCUPATION.—The term ‘nontraditional
ticeship system. ‘‘(B) an early college high school; apprenticeship industry or occupation’ refers to
‘‘Sec. 4. Transition provisions. ‘‘(C) an educational service agency; an industry sector or occupation that represents
‘‘Sec. 5. Disaggregation of data. ‘‘(D) a high school; fewer than 10 percent of apprenticeable occupa-
‘‘Sec. 6. Relation to other laws. ‘‘(E) a local educational agency or State edu- tions or the programs under the national ap-
‘‘TITLE I—PROMOTING PROGRAMS UNDER cational agency; prenticeship system.
THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM ‘‘(F) a Tribal educational agency, Tribally ‘‘(18) OUTLYING AREA.—The term ‘outlying
‘‘Subtitle A—The Office of Apprenticeship, State controlled college or university, or Tribally con- area’ means American Samoa, Guam, the Com-
Registration Agency Approval Process, and trolled postsecondary career and technical insti- monwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands,
Interagency Agreement tution; and the United States Virgin Islands.
‘‘(G) a postsecondary educational institution; ‘‘(19) PRE-APPRENTICE.—The term ‘pre-ap-
‘‘Sec. 111. The Office of Apprenticeship. ‘‘(H) a minority-serving institution (as de-
‘‘Sec. 112. National Advisory Committee on Ap- prentice’ means a program participant in a pre-
scribed in any of paragraphs (1) through (7) of apprenticeship program.
prenticeships. section 371(a) of the Higher Education Act of
‘‘Sec. 113. State apprenticeship agencies and ‘‘(20) PRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.—The
1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a))); term ‘pre-apprenticeship program’ means a
State Offices of Apprenticeship. ‘‘(I) a provider of adult education and literacy
‘‘Sec. 114. Interagency agreement with Depart- training model or program that—
activities under the Adult Education and Fam- ‘‘(A) prepares individuals for acceptance into
ment of Education. ily Literacy Act (29 U.S.C. 3271 et seq.);
‘‘Subtitle B—Process and Standards for the an apprenticeship program;
‘‘(J) a local agency administering plans under ‘‘(B) meets the standards described in section
National Apprenticeship System title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 122(c); and
‘‘Sec. 121. Apprenticeable occupations stand- U.S.C. 720 et seq.), other than section 112 or part ‘‘(C) is registered under this Act.
ards. C of that title (29 U.S.C. 732, 741);
‘‘(21) PROGRAM PARTICIPANT.—The term ‘pro-
‘‘Sec. 122. Quality standards of programs under ‘‘(K) a related instruction provider, including
gram participant’ means an apprentice, a pre-
the national apprenticeship sys- a qualified intermediary acting as a related in-
apprentice, or a youth apprentice.
tem. struction provider as approved by a registration
‘‘(22) QUALIFIED INTERMEDIARY.—
‘‘Sec. 123. Apprenticeship agreements. agency; or
‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘qualified inter-
‘‘Sec. 124. Registration of programs under the ‘‘(L) a consortium of entities described in any
mediary’ means an entity that demonstrates ex-
national apprenticeship system. of subparagraphs (A) through (K).
pertise in building, connecting, sustaining, and
‘‘Subtitle C—Evaluations and Research ‘‘(11) ELIGIBLE ENTITY.—
‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘eligible entity’ measuring the performance of partnerships de-
‘‘Sec. 131. Program evaluations. means— scribed in subparagraph (B) and serves program
‘‘Sec. 132. National apprenticeship system re- ‘‘(i) a program sponsor; participants and employers by—
search. ‘‘(ii) a State workforce development board or ‘‘(i) connecting employers to programs under
‘‘Subtitle D—General Provisions State workforce agency, or a local workforce de- the national apprenticeship system;
velopment board or local workforce development ‘‘(ii) assisting in the design and implementa-
‘‘Sec. 141. Authorization of appropriations.
agency; tion of such programs, including curriculum de-
‘‘TITLE II—MODERNIZING THE NATIONAL velopment and delivery for related instruction;
APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM FOR THE 21ST ‘‘(iii) an education and training provider, or a
consortium thereof; ‘‘(iii) supporting entities, sponsors, or program
CENTURY GRANTS administrators in meeting the registration and
‘‘(iv) if the applicant is in a State with a State
‘‘Sec. 201. Grant requirements. apprenticeship agency, such State apprentice- reporting requirements of this Act;
‘‘Sec. 202. Uses of Funds. ship agency; ‘‘(iv) providing professional development ac-
‘‘Sec. 203. Grant evaluations. ‘‘(v) an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization; tivities such as training to mentors;
‘‘Sec. 204. Grant appropriations. ‘‘(vi) an industry or sector partnership, a ‘‘(v) connecting students or workers to pro-
‘‘SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. group of employers, a trade association, or a grams under the national apprenticeship sys-
‘‘In this Act: professional association that sponsors or partici- tem;
‘‘(1) ADMINISTRATOR.—The term ‘Adminis- pates in a program under the national appren- ‘‘(vi) developing and providing personalized
trator’ means the Administrator of the Office of ticeship system; program participant supports, including by
Apprenticeship established under section 111(a). ‘‘(vii) a Governor of a State; partnering with organizations to provide access
‘‘(2) ADVISORY COMMITTEE.—The term ‘Advi- ‘‘(viii) a labor organization or joint labor- to or referrals for supportive services and finan-
sory Committee’ means the National Advisory management organization; or cial advising;
Committee on Apprenticeships established under ‘‘(ix) a qualified intermediary. ‘‘(vii) providing services, resources, and sup-
section 112. ‘‘(B) SPONSOR REQUIREMENT.—Not fewer than ports for development, delivery, expansion, or
‘‘(3) APPRENTICE.—The term ‘apprentice’ one entity under subparagraph (A) shall be the improvement of programs under the national ap-
means a program participant in an apprentice- sponsor of a program under the national ap- prenticeship system; or
ship program. prenticeship system. ‘‘(viii) serving as a program sponsor.
‘‘(4) APPRENTICESHIP AGREEMENT.—The term ‘‘(12) INDIAN TRIBE; TRIBAL ORGANIZATION.— ‘‘(B) PARTNERSHIPS.—The term ‘partnerships
‘apprenticeship agreement’ means a written The terms ‘Indian Tribe’ and ‘Tribal organiza- described in subparagraph (B)’ means partner-
agreement under section 123 between— tion’ have the meaning given the terms (without ships among entities involved in programs under
‘‘(A) an apprentice, a youth apprentice, or a regard to capitalization) in section 4 of the In- the national apprenticeship system, including—
pre-apprentice; and dian Self-Determination and Education Assist- ‘‘(i) industry or sector partnerships;
‘‘(B) a sponsor. ance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304). ‘‘(ii) partnerships among employers, joint
‘‘(5) APPRENTICESHIP HUB.—The term ‘appren- ‘‘(13) INTERIM CREDENTIAL.—The term ‘interim labor-management organizations, labor organi-
ticeship hub’ means a regional or sectoral quali- credential’ means a credential issued by a reg- zations, community-based organizations, indus-
fied intermediary recognized by a State appren- istration agency, upon request of the appro- try associations, State or local workforce devel-
ticeship agency or a State Office of Apprentice- priate sponsor, as certification of competency opment boards, education and training pro-
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
ship as organizing and providing activities and attainment by a program participant during viders, social service organizations, economic de-
services related to the development of programs participation in a program under the national velopment organizations, Indian Tribes or Trib-
under the national apprenticeship system. apprenticeship system. al organizations, one-stop operators, or one-stop
‘‘(6) APPRENTICEABLE OCCUPATION.—The term ‘‘(14) JOURNEYWORKER.—The term partners, in the State workforce development
‘apprenticeable occupation’ means an occupa- ‘journeyworker’ means a worker who has at- system; or
tion that the Administrator has determined tained a level of skill, abilities, and com- ‘‘(iii) partnerships among one or more of the
meets the requirements of section 121. petencies recognized within an industry as hav- entities described in clauses (i) and (ii).
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5952 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
‘‘(23) RECOGNIZED POSTSECONDARY CREDEN- ‘‘(32) STATE OFFICE OF APPRENTICESHIP.—The information about a program participant or
TIAL.—The term ‘recognized postsecondary cre- term ‘State office of apprenticeship’ means the would reveal such information when combined
dential’ has the meaning given the term in sec- office designated by the Administrator to admin- with other released information.
tion 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Oppor- ister programs under the national apprentice- ‘‘SEC. 6. RELATION TO OTHER LAWS.
tunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3102), except that such ship system in such State and meets the require- ‘‘Nothing in this Act shall invalidate or limit
term does not include a certificate of completion ments of section 111(b)(3). the remedies, rights, and procedures under any
of an apprenticeship. ‘‘(33) STATE OR LOCAL WORKFORCE DEVELOP- Federal law or the law of any State or political
‘‘(24) REGISTRATION AGENCY.—The term ‘reg- MENT BOARDS.—The terms ‘State workforce de- subdivision of any State or jurisdiction that pro-
istration agency’ means the State Office of Ap- velopment board’ and ‘local workforce develop- vides greater or equal protection for individuals
prenticeship or State apprenticeship agency in a ment board’ have the meanings given the terms based on race, color, religion, national origin,
State that is responsible for— ‘State board’ and ‘local board’, respectively, in sex, sexual orientation, age, genetic informa-
‘‘(A) approving or denying applications from section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Op- tion, or disability than are afforded by this Act.
sponsors for registration of programs under the portunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3102). ‘‘TITLE I—PROMOTING PROGRAMS UNDER
national apprenticeship system in the State or ‘‘(34) STATE WORKFORCE AGENCY.—The term THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM
area covered by the registration agency; and ‘State workforce agency’ means the State agen-
‘‘(B) carrying out the responsibilities of sup- cy with responsibility for workforce investment ‘‘Subtitle A—The Office of Apprenticeship,
porting the youth apprenticeship, pre-appren- activities under chapters 2 and 3 of subtitle B of State Registration Agency Approval Process,
ticeship, or apprenticeship programs registered title I of the Workforce Innovation and Oppor- and Interagency Agreement
by the registration agency. tunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3121 et seq., 3131 et seq.). ‘‘SEC. 111. THE OFFICE OF APPRENTICESHIP.
‘‘(25) RELATED INSTRUCTION.—The term ‘re- ‘‘(35) CTE TERMS.—The terms ‘area career and ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT OF THE OFFICE OF AP-
lated instruction’ means an organized and sys- technical education school’, ‘articulation agree- PRENTICESHIP.—There is established, in the Em-
tematic form of instruction that meets the re- ment’, ‘credit transfer agreement’, ‘postsec- ployment and Training Administration of the
quirements of section 122(b)(1)(C). ondary educational institution’, ‘Tribally con- Department of Labor, an Office of Apprentice-
‘‘(26) RELATED FEDERAL PROGRAMS.—The term trolled college or university’, ‘Tribally controlled ship (referred to in this section as the ‘Office’),
‘related Federal programs’ means programs or postsecondary career and technical institution’, which shall be directed by an Administrator
activities under the following: and ‘work-based learning’ have the meanings who has demonstrated knowledge of the na-
‘‘(A) The Workforce Innovation and Oppor- given in section 3 of the Carl D. Perkins Career tional apprenticeship system necessary to head
tunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.), including and Technical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. the Office.
adult education and literacy activities under 2302). ‘‘(b) RESPONSIBILITIES.—The Administrator
such Act. ‘‘(36) ESEA TERMS.—The terms ‘dual or con- shall be responsible for the administration of
‘‘(B) The Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et current enrollment program’, ‘early college high this Act, including:
seq.). school’, ‘education service agency’, ‘high ‘‘(1) PROMOTION AND AWARENESS ACTIVITIES.—
‘‘(C) The Elementary and Secondary Edu- school’, ‘local educational agency’, ‘paraprofes- The Administrator shall carry out promotion
cation Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.). sional’, and ‘State educational agency’ have the and awareness activities, including the fol-
‘‘(D) The Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 meanings given in section 8101 of the Elemen- lowing:
U.S.C. 1001 et seq.). tary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 ‘‘(A) Supporting the development or scaling of
‘‘(E) The Individuals with Disabilities Edu- apprenticeship models nationally, promoting the
U.S.C. 7801).
cation Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.). effectiveness of youth apprenticeship, pre-ap-
‘‘(37) TRIBAL EDUCATIONAL AGENCY.—The term
‘‘(F) Title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prenticeship, and apprenticeship programs, and
‘Tribal educational agency’ has the meaning
(29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.). providing promotional materials to State ap-
‘‘(G) Title V of the Older Americans Act of given the term in section 6132 of the Elementary
and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. prenticeship agencies, State workforce develop-
1965 (42 U.S.C. 3056 et seq.). ment systems or local workforce development
‘‘(H) The Carl D. Perkins Career and Tech- 7452).
‘‘(38) WIOA TERMS.—The terms ‘career path- systems, State educational agencies or local edu-
nical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2302).
way’, ‘in-demand industry sector or occupa- cational agencies, employers, trade associations,
‘‘(I) Chapter 2 of title II of the Trade Act of
tion’, ‘individual with a barrier to employment’, professional associations, industry groups, labor
1974 (19 U.S.C. 2271 et seq.).
‘‘(J) Chapter 41 of title 38, United States Code. ‘industry or sector partnership’, ‘labor market organizations, joint labor-management organi-
‘‘(K) Employment and training activities car- area’, ‘local area’, ‘one-stop center’, ‘one-stop zations, education and training providers, Fed-
ried out under the Community Services Block operator’, ‘one-stop partner’, ‘supportive serv- eral and State correctional facilities, and pro-
Grant Act (42 U.S.C. 9901 et seq.). ices’ and ‘workforce development system’ have spective apprentices in such programs.
‘‘(L) State unemployment compensation laws the meanings given in section 3 of the Workforce ‘‘(B) Promoting greater diversity in the na-
(in accordance with applicable Federal law). Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. tional apprenticeship system including by—
‘‘(M) Section 231 of the Second Chance Act of 3102). ‘‘(i)(I) promoting outreach to nontraditional
2007 (34 U.S.C. 60541). ‘‘(39) YOUTH APPRENTICE.—The term ‘youth apprenticeship populations;
‘‘(N) Part A of title IV of the Social Security apprentice’ means a participant in a youth ap- ‘‘(II) engaging minority-serving institutions
Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). prenticeship program. and employers from nontraditional apprentice-
‘‘(O) Employment and training activities car- ‘‘(40) YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.—The ship industries or occupations; and
ried out by the Department of Housing and term ‘youth apprenticeship program’ means a ‘‘(III) engaging small, medium-size, women-
Urban Development, the Department of Defense, model or program that meets the standards de- owned, and minority-owned businesses, and em-
the Department of Commerce, the Department of scribed in section 122(d) and is registered under ployers in high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand
Energy, the Department of Transportation, and this Act. industry sectors and occupations that are non-
the Small Business Administration. ‘‘SEC. 3. PROGRAMS UNDER THE NATIONAL AP-
traditional apprenticeship industries or occupa-
‘‘(P) Section 6(d)(4) of the Food and Nutrition PRENTICESHIP SYSTEM. tions; and
Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2015(d)(4)). ‘‘Any funds appropriated under this Act shall ‘‘(ii) supporting the participation and reten-
‘‘(Q) Educational assistance programs under only be used for, or provided to, programs under tion of apprentices and employers described in
chapters 30 through 36 of title 38, United States the national apprenticeship system, including clause (i) in the national apprenticeship system.
Code. ‘‘(2) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ACTIVITIES.—The
any funds awarded for the purposes of grants,
‘‘(27) SECRETARY.—The term ‘Secretary’ means Administrator shall carry out technical assist-
contracts, or cooperative agreements, or the de-
the Secretary of Labor. ance activities, including the following:
velopment, implementation, or administration,
‘‘(28) SPONSOR.—The term ‘sponsor’ means an ‘‘(A) Providing technical assistance to—
of program under the national apprenticeship
employer, joint labor-management organization, ‘‘(i) assist State apprenticeship agencies and
system.
trade association, professional association, labor sponsors in complying with the requirements of
‘‘SEC. 4. TRANSITION PROVISIONS.
organization, education and training provider, this Act, including the process and standards
‘‘The Secretary shall take such steps as are described in subtitle B and the evaluation and
or qualified intermediary that is applying to ad-
necessary to provide for the orderly transition to research requirements described in subtitle C;
minister and operate a program under the na-
the authority of this Act (as amended by the ‘‘(ii) receive and resolve comments or com-
tional apprenticeship system.
‘‘(29) STATE.—The term ‘State’— National Apprenticeship Act of 2020) from any plaints from youth apprentices, pre-apprentices,
‘‘(A) has the meaning given such term in sec- authority under the Act of August 16, 1937 (com- or apprentices, sponsors, employers, State ap-
tion 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Oppor- monly referred to as the ‘National Apprentice- prenticeship agencies, State local workforce
tunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3102); and ship Act’; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 agencies or local workforce agencies, State edu-
‘‘(B) includes each of the outlying areas. et seq.), as in effect on the day before the date cational agencies or local educational agencies,
‘‘(30) STATE APPRENTICESHIP AGENCY.—The of enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act qualified intermediaries, labor organizations,
of 2020.
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
term ‘State apprenticeship agency’ means a joint labor-management organizations, or other
State agency recognized as a State apprentice- ‘‘SEC. 5. DISAGGREGATION OF DATA. stakeholders;
ship agency under section 113. ‘‘The disaggregation of data under this Act ‘‘(iii) assist sponsors, employers, qualified
‘‘(31) STATE APPRENTICESHIP COUNCIL.—The shall not be required when the number of pro- intermediaries, and education and training or
term ‘State apprenticeship council’ means an gram participants in a category is insufficient to related instruction providers, or other entities
entity established under section 113(b)(3) to as- yield statistically reliable information or when interested in becoming sponsors, or seeking sup-
sist the State apprenticeship agency. the results would reveal personally identifiable port for developing programs under the national
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5953
apprenticeship system or effectively carrying out ‘‘(5) APPRENTICEABLE OCCUPATIONS.— skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors
such programs, including providing assistance ‘‘(A) EXISTING APPRENTICEABLE OCCUPA- and occupations in areas with high percentages
for remote or virtual learning or training, as TIONS.—The Administrator shall regularly re- of low-income individuals;
necessary; view and update the requirements for each ‘‘(B) ensuring programs under the national
‘‘(iv) assist those applying for or carrying out apprenticeable occupation to ensure that such apprenticeship system—
grants under title II; and requirements are in compliance with require- ‘‘(i) adopt and implement policies to provide
‘‘(v) share, through a national apprenticeship ments under this Act. for equal opportunity in such programs, as de-
system clearinghouse, high-quality materials for ‘‘(B) NEW APPRENTICEABLE OCCUPATION.— scribed in section 30.3 of title 29, Code of Federal
programs under the national apprenticeship sys- ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall re- Regulations (as in effect on January 31, 2020);
tem, such as related instruction or training ma- view and make a determination on whether to ‘‘(ii) do not engage in intimidation or retalia-
terials. approve an occupation as an apprenticeable oc- tion as prohibited under section 30.17 of title 29,
‘‘(B) Cooperating with the— cupation not later than 45 days after receiving Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on
‘‘(i) Secretary of Education in— an application from a person seeking such ap- January 31, 2020); and
‘‘(I) providing technical assistance for the de- proval from the Administrator. ‘‘(iii) are subject, for any violation of clauses
velopment and implementation of related in- ‘‘(ii) ESTIMATED TIMELINE.—If such deter- (i) or (ii), to enforcement action under this Act;
struction under the national apprenticeship sys- mination is not made within 45 days, the Ad- and
tem that is aligned with State education systems ministrator shall provide the applicant with a ‘‘(C) supporting the recruitment, employment,
and education and training providers; and written explanation for the delay and offer an and retention of nontraditional apprenticeship
‘‘(II) supporting the stackability and port- estimated timeline for a determination that does populations in programs under the national ap-
ability of academic credit and credentials not to exceed 90 days after the date of such prenticeship system in high-skill, high-wage,
earned as part of such programs, including written explanation. and in-demand industry sectors and occupa-
through articulation agreements and career ‘‘(C) INDUSTRY RECOGNIZED OCCUPATIONAL tions, including women, people of color, individ-
pathways; and STANDARDS.— uals with disabilities, individuals impacted by
‘‘(ii) State workforce development systems to ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—From the funds appro- the criminal and juvenile justice system, and in-
promote awareness of opportunities under the priated under section 141(a), the Administrator dividuals with barriers to employment, as appli-
national apprenticeship system. shall convene, on an ongoing basis and taking cable.
‘‘(3) STATE OFFICES OF APPRENTICESHIP.—
‘‘(A) ESTABLISHMENT OF OFFICES.— into consideration recommendations of the Advi- ‘‘(8) GRANT AWARDS.—The Administrator shall
‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall es- sory Committee under section 112(d)(4), the in- award grants under title II.
tablish and operate a State Office of Apprentice- dustry sector leaders and experts described in ‘‘(9) NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE.—The
ship in a State described in clause (ii) to serve clause (ii) for the purposes of establishing or up- Administrator shall—
dating specific frameworks of industry recog- ‘‘(A) regularly consult with the National Ad-
as the registration agency for such State.
‘‘(ii) APPLICABLE STATES.—A State described nized occupational standards for apprenticeable visory Committee on Apprenticeships under sec-
in this clause is a State— occupations (including potential apprenticeable tion 112; and
‘‘(I) in which, as of the day before the date of occupations) that— ‘‘(B) ensure that the required recommenda-
enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of ‘‘(I) meet the requirements of this Act; and tions and other reports of the Advisory Com-
2020, there is no State Office of Apprenticeship; ‘‘(II) describe program scope and length, re- mittee are submitted to the Secretary and trans-
and lated instruction, on-the-job training, recog- mitted to the Committee on Education and
‘‘(II) that has not applied for recognition as a nized postsecondary credentials, and com- Labor of the House of Representatives and the
State apprenticeship agency under section 113, petencies, and relevant timelines for review of Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and
or for which such recognition has not provided such frameworks. Pensions of the Senate.
or has been withdrawn by the Administrator ‘‘(ii) INDUSTRY SECTOR LEADERS AND EX- ‘‘(10) COORDINATION.—The Administrator
under such section. PERTS.—The industry sector leaders and experts shall coordinate and align programs under the
‘‘(B) STATE PLAN REQUIREMENT.—Each State are employers, industry associations, joint national apprenticeship system with related
Office of Apprenticeship shall be administered labor-management organizations, labor organi- Federal programs.
by a State Director who shall prepare and sub- zations, education and training providers, cre- ‘‘(c) INFORMATION COLLECTION AND DISSEMI-
mit a State plan that meets the requirements of dential providers, program participants, and NATION.—The Administrator shall provide for
section 113(c). other stakeholders relevant to the sector or oc- data collection and dissemination of information
‘‘(C) VACANCIES.—Subject to the availability cupation for which the frameworks are being es- regarding programs under the national appren-
of appropriations, in the case of a State Office tablished or updated, as determined by the Ad- ticeship system, including—
of Apprenticeship with a vacant position, the ministrator. ‘‘(1) not later than 1 year after the date of the
Administrator shall— ‘‘(iii) PRIORITY INDUSTRY RECOGNIZED enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of
‘‘(i) make information on such vacancy avail- APPRENTICEABLE OCCUPATIONS.—In establishing 2020, establishing and supporting a single infor-
able on a publicly accessible website; and frameworks under clause (i) for the first time mation technology infrastructure to support
‘‘(ii) report to the Committee on Education after the effective date of the National Appren- data collection and reporting from State appren-
and Labor of the House of Representatives and ticeship Act of 2020, the Administrator shall ticeship agencies, State Offices of Apprentice-
the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, prioritize the establishment of such standards in ship, grantees under title II, program sponsors,
and Pensions of the Senate, on the status and high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry and program administrators under the national
length of such vacancy if such vacancy is not sectors and occupations. apprenticeship system by providing for a data
filled not later than 90 days after such position ‘‘(D) REGULATIONS.—Not later than one year infrastructure that—
has become vacant. after the date of the enactment of the National ‘‘(A) is developed and maintained by the Ad-
‘‘(D) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this Apprenticeship Act of 2020, the Secretary shall ministrator, with input from national data and
paragraph shall be construed to prohibit any issue regulations that outline a process for privacy experts, is informed by best practices on
State described in subparagraph (A)(ii) from es- proactively establishing and approving stand- public provision of credential information, and
tablishing an agency or entity to promote pro- ards and requirements for apprenticeable occu- to the extent practicable, aligns with the tech-
grams under the national apprenticeship system pations in consultation with the industry sector nology infrastructure for related Federal pro-
in such State, in coordination with the State Of- leaders and experts described in subparagraph grams, such as the technology infrastructure
fice of Apprenticeship operating in the State, so (C)(ii). used under the Workforce Innovation and Op-
long as such agency or entity does not act as ‘‘(6) PROGRAM OVERSIGHT AND EVALUATION.— portunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.);
the registration agency in such State. The Administrator shall— ‘‘(B) best meets the needs of the national ap-
‘‘(4) QUALITY STANDARDS, APPRENTICESHIP ‘‘(A) monitor State apprenticeship agencies, prenticeship system stakeholders reporting data
AGREEMENT, AND REGISTRATION REVIEW.—In State Offices of Apprenticeship, grantees, and to the Administrator or State apprenticeship
order for the Secretary, acting through the Ad- sponsors of programs under the national ap- agencies, including through the provision of
ministrator, to support the formulation and fur- prenticeship system to ensure compliance with technical assistance and financial assistance as
therance of labor standards necessary to safe- the requirements of this Act; necessary to ensure reporting systems are
guard the welfare of program participants, and ‘‘(B) provide technical assistance to assist equipped to report into a single information
to extend the application of such standards in such entities with such compliance or program technology infrastructure; and
apprenticeship agreements, not later than 1 year performance; and ‘‘(C) is aligned with data from the perform-
after the effective date of the National Appren- ‘‘(C) conduct research and evaluation in ac- ance reviews under section 131(b)(1)(A);
ticeship Act of 2020, and at least every 3 years cordance with subtitle C. ‘‘(2) providing for data sharing that includes
thereafter, the Administrator shall review, and ‘‘(7) PROMOTING DIVERSITY IN THE NATIONAL making nonpersonally identifiable apprentice-
where appropriate, update the process for meet- APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM.—The Administrator ship data available on a publicly accessible
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
ing the requirements of subtitle B, including ap- shall promote diversity and ensure equal oppor- website that is searchable and comparable,
plicable regulations and subregulatory guidance tunity to participate in programs for appren- through the use of common, linked, open-data
to ensure that such process is easily accessible tices, youth apprentices, and pre-apprentices, description language, such as the credential
and efficient to bring together employers and including— transparency description language or a substan-
labor as sponsors or potential sponsors of pro- ‘‘(A) taking steps necessary to promote diver- tially similar resource, so that interested parties
grams under the national apprenticeship sys- sity in apprenticeable occupations under the na- can become aware of apprenticeship opportuni-
tem. tional apprenticeship system, especially in high- ties and of program outcomes that best meets the
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5954 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
needs of youth apprentices, pre-apprentices, of the House of Representatives, the Majority ‘‘(B) convene sector leaders and experts under
and apprentices, employers, education and Leader of the Senate, and the Minority Leader section 111(b)(5)(C) for the establishing specific
training providers, program sponsors, and rel- of the Senate may each recommend to the Sec- frameworks of industry recognized occupational
evant stakeholders, including— retary an individual described in clause (i) or standards.
‘‘(A) information on program offerings under (ii) of subparagraph (B) for appointment under ‘‘(e) PERSONNEL.—
the national apprenticeship system based on subparagraph (A) who shall be subject to the re- ‘‘(1) COMPENSATION OF MEMBERS.—
geographical location and apprenticeable occu- quirements of paragraph (3). ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A member of the Advisory
pation; ‘‘(3) QUALIFICATIONS.—An individual shall be Committee who is not an officer or employee of
‘‘(B) information on education and training selected under paragraph (1) on the basis of the the Federal Government shall be compensated at
providers providing opportunities under such experience and competence of such individual a rate equal to the daily equivalent of the an-
system, including whether programs under such with respect to programs under the national ap- nual rate of basic pay prescribed for level IV of
system offer dual or concurrent enrollment pro- prenticeship system. the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of
grams, articulation agreements, and recognized ‘‘(4) TERMS.— title 5, United States Code, for each day (includ-
postsecondary credentials as part of the pro- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Each voting member of the ing travel time) during which the member is en-
gram offerings; Advisory Committee shall be appointed for a gaged in the performance of the duties of the
‘‘(C) information about the educational and term of 4 years, except as provided in subpara- Advisory Committee.
occupational credentials and related com- graphs (B) through (D). ‘‘(B) OFFICERS OR EMPLOYEES OF THE UNITED
STATES.—Members of the Advisory Committee
petencies of programs under such system; and ‘‘(B) TERMS OF INITIAL APPOINTEES.—
‘‘(D) information based on the most recent ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The appointments of the who are officers or employees of the United
data available to the Office that is consistent initial members of the Advisory Committee shall States may not receive additional pay, allow-
with national standards and practices. be made not later than 90 days after the effec- ances, or benefits by reason of their service on
‘‘SEC. 112. NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON tive date of the National Apprenticeship Act of the Advisory Committee.
APPRENTICESHIPS.
‘‘(2) STAFF.—The Secretary shall supply the
2020.
Advisory Committee with an executive Secretary
‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.— ‘‘(ii) STAGGERING OF TERMS.—As designated by
‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—There is established, in the and provide such secretarial, clerical, and other
the Secretary at the time of the appointment, of
Department of Labor, a National Advisory Com- services as the Secretary determines to be nec-
the members first appointed—
essary to enable the Advisory Committee to
mittee on Apprenticeships. ‘‘(I) half of such members shall serve a 2-year
‘‘(2) COMPOSITION.— carry out the duties described in subsection (d).
term; and ‘‘(3) DATA REQUESTS.—The Advisory Com-
‘‘(A) APPOINTMENTS.—The Advisory Com- ‘‘(II) half of such members shall serve a 4-year mittee through its Chairperson may request data
mittee shall consist of 27 voting members de- term. from the Secretary as determined necessary by
scribed in subparagraph (B) appointed by the ‘‘(C) VACANCIES.—Any member appointed to the Advisory Committee to carry out its func-
Secretary. fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of
‘‘(B) LIST OF INDIVIDUALS.—The individuals tions as described in this section.
the term for which the member’s predecessor was ‘‘(f) PERMANENT COMMITTEE.—The Federal
described in this subparagraph are— appointed shall be appointed only for the re- Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) (other
‘‘(i) 9 representatives of employers or industry mainder of that term. A member may serve after than section 14 of such Act) shall apply to the
associations who participate in an apprentice- the expiration of that member’s term until a suc- Advisory Committee.
ship program, including representatives of em- cessor has taken office. A vacancy in the Advi- ‘‘SEC. 113. STATE APPRENTICESHIP AGENCIES
ployers representing nontraditional apprentice- sory Committee shall be filled in the manner in AND STATE OFFICES OF APPREN-
ship industries or occupations, and other high- which the original appointment was made, ex- TICESHIP.
skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors cept that such appointment shall be made not ‘‘(a) RECOGNITION OF STATE APPRENTICESHIP
or occupations, as applicable; later than 90 days after the date of the vacancy. AGENCIES.—
‘‘(ii) 9 representatives of labor organizations A member who fulfilled a partial term as the re- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall
or joint labor-management organizations who sult of a vacancy may, at the end that term, be recognize a State agency as a State apprentice-
have responsibility for the administration of an appointed to a full term. ship agency in accordance with this section and
apprenticeship program (including those spon- ‘‘(D) MULTIPLE TERMS.—A voting member of cooperate with such State apprenticeship agen-
sored by a joint labor-management organization the Advisory Committee may serve not more cy regarding the formulation and promotion of
and from nontraditional apprenticeship indus- than 2 full terms on the Advisory Committee. standards of apprenticeship under subtitle B.
tries or occupations), at least 1 of which rep- ‘‘(b) CHAIRPERSON.—The Advisory Committee ‘‘(2) APPLICATION.—A State desiring to have a
resent employees primarily in the building members shall designate by vote one of the vot- State agency recognized as a State apprentice-
trades and construction industry; ing members described in subsection (a)(2)(A) of ship agency under this section shall submit an
‘‘(iii) 1 representative of each from— the Advisory Committee to serve as Chairperson application at such time, in such manner, and
‘‘(I) a State apprenticeship agency; of the Advisory Committee. containing such information as the Adminis-
‘‘(II) a State or local workforce development ‘‘(c) MEETINGS.— trator may require, including—
board with significant expertise in supporting a ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Advisory Committee ‘‘(A) the initial State plan described in sub-
program under the national apprenticeship sys- shall meet at the call of the Chairperson and section (c)(2)(A)(i);
tem; hold not fewer than 4 meetings during each cal- ‘‘(B) a description of how the State appren-
‘‘(III) a community organization with signifi- endar year. ticeship agency will meet the State plan require-
cant expertise supporting such a program; ‘‘(2) OPEN ACCESS.—All meetings of the Advi- ments of subsection (c); and
‘‘(IV) an area career and technical education sory Committee shall be open to the public. A ‘‘(C) a description of the linkages and coordi-
school or local educational agency; nation of the State’s proposed standards, cri-
transcript shall be kept of each meeting and
‘‘(V) a State apprenticeship council; teria, and requirements with the State’s eco-
made available for public inspection within 30
‘‘(VI) a State or local postsecondary education nomic development strategies and workforce de-
days of the meeting.
and training providers that administers, or has velopment system and the State’s secondary,
‘‘(d) DUTIES.—The Advisory Committee shall,
not less than 1 articulation agreement with an postsecondary, and adult education systems.
at a minimum—
entity administering, a program under the na- ‘‘(3) REVIEW AND RECOGNITION.—
‘‘(1) advise, consult with, and make rec- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 90 days
tional apprenticeship system; ommendations to the Administrator on matters
‘‘(VII) a provider of an industry-recognized after the date on which a State submits an ap-
relating to the administration of this Act, in- plication under paragraph (2), the Secretary
credential;
cluding recommendations on regulations and shall notify the State regarding whether the
‘‘(VII) a national qualified intermediary; and
policies related to the administration of this Act; agency of the State is recognized as a State ap-
‘‘(IX) an apprentice.
‘‘(2) annually prepare a set of recommenda- prenticeship agency under this section.
‘‘(C) EX OFFICIO NONVOTING MEMBERS.—The
Advisory Committee shall consist of ex officio tions for the Administrator, to be shared with ‘‘(B) DURATION OF RECOGNITION.—
nonvoting members from each of the following the Committee on Education and Labor of the ‘‘(i) DURATION.—The recognition of a State
departments, selected by the applicable Sec- House of Representatives and the Committee on apprenticeship agency shall be for a 4-year pe-
retary— Health, Education, Labor and Pensions of the riod beginning on the date the State apprentice-
‘‘(i) the Department of Labor; Senate, to improve the registration process ship agency is notified under subparagraph (A).
‘‘(ii) the Department of Commerce; under subtitle B to make the process easily ac- ‘‘(ii) NOTIFICATION.—
‘‘(iii) the Department of Education; cessible and efficient for use by sponsors while ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall notify
‘‘(iv) the Department of Energy; maintaining the requirements under subtitle B; a State apprenticeship agency not later than 180
‘‘(v) the Department of Housing and Urban ‘‘(3) make recommendations on expanding days before the last day of the 4-year period re-
Development; participation of nontraditional apprenticeship garding whether the State apprenticeship agen-
‘‘(vi) the Department of Transportation; populations in programs under the national ap- cy is in compliance with this section.
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
‘‘(vii) the Department of Veterans Affairs; prenticeship system; and ‘‘(II) COMPLIANCE.—In the case of a State ap-
‘‘(viii) the Department of Health and Human ‘‘(4) review apprenticeable occupations and, prenticeship agency that is in compliance with
Services; based on reviews of labor market trends and this section, the agency’s recognition under this
‘‘(ix) the Department of Justice; and changes, make recommendations to the Adminis- section shall be renewed for an additional 4-
‘‘(x) the Department of Defense. trator on whether to— year period and the notification under sub-
‘‘(D) RECOMMENDATIONS.—The Speaker of the ‘‘(A) make updates to apprenticeable occupa- clause (I) shall include notification of such re-
House of Representatives, the Minority Leader tions under section 111(b)(5)(A); or newal.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5955
‘‘(III) NONCOMPLIANCE.—In the case of a ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—For a State apprenticeship portunity in apprenticeships in accordance with
State apprenticeship agency that is not in com- agency to be eligible to receive allotments under paragraph (5).
pliance with this section, the notification subsection (f) and to be recognized under this ‘‘(4) RECIPROCITY.—Each State plan shall de-
shall— section, the State apprenticeship agency shall scribe how the State apprenticeship agency, in
‘‘(aa) specify the areas of noncompliance; submit to the Secretary a State plan that meets the case of a program recognized by a registra-
‘‘(bb) require corrective action; and the requirements of this subsection. tion agency in another State, shall recognize
‘‘(cc) offer technical assistance. ‘‘(2) APPROVAL OF STATE PLAN.— such program in the State of such agency for
‘‘(iii) RENEWAL AFTER CORRECTION.—If the ‘‘(A) SUBMISSION.— purposes of this Act by not later than 30 days
Administrator determines that a State appren- ‘‘(i) INITIAL PLAN.—The first State plan of a after receipt of an application for such recogni-
ticeship agency has corrected the identified State apprenticeship agency shall be submitted tion from a program sponsor, as long as such
areas of noncompliance under this subpara- to the Administrator not later than 120 days program meets the wage and hour provisions of
graph not later than 180 days of notification of prior to the commencement of the first full pro- the State granting reciprocity.
noncompliance, the State apprenticeship agen- gram year of the State apprenticeship agency, ‘‘(5) PROMOTING DIVERSITY IN THE NATIONAL
cy’s recognition under this section shall be re- which shall include— APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM.—Each State plan shall
newed for an additional 4-year period. ‘‘(I) a description of any State laws, policies, include a plan for how the State apprenticeship
‘‘(C) TRANSITION PERIOD FOR STATE AGEN- or operational procedures relating to the process agency will—
CIES.— of recognizing programs under the national ap- ‘‘(A) promote diversity in apprenticeable occu-
‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 1 year after prenticeship system that is inconsistent with, or pations offered throughout the State, and a de-
the effective date of the National Apprenticeship imposes requirements in addition to, the require- scription of how such agency will promote the
Act of 2020, a State agency that, as of the day ments of this Act; addition of apprenticeable occupations in high-
before the date of enactment of such Act, was ‘‘(II) an assurance that the State will notify skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors
recognized by the Secretary for purposes of reg- the Administrator if there are any changes to and occupations, and in nontraditional appren-
istering apprenticeship programs in accordance the State laws (including regulations), policies, ticeship occupations and sectors; and
with this Act shall submit an application under or procedures described in subclause (I) that ‘‘(B) promote diversity and equal opportunity
paragraph (2). occur after the date of submission of such plan; in programs under the national apprenticeship
‘‘(ii) TRANSITION PERIOD.—A State agency de- and system by uniformly adopting and implementing
scribed in clause (i) shall be recognized as a ‘‘(III) an assurance that the State will make the requirements of subparagraphs (B) and (C)
State apprenticeship agency under this section available on a publicly available website a de- of section 111(b)(7).
for a 4-year period beginning on the date on scription of any laws (including regulations), ‘‘(6) COMPLAINTS.—
which the Secretary approves the application policies, and operational procedures relating to ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Subject to subparagraph
submitted by the State agency under paragraph the process of recognizing programs under the (B), each State plan shall include a description
(2). national apprenticeship system that are incon- of the system for the State apprenticeship agen-
‘‘(b) AUTHORITY OF A STATE APPRENTICESHIP sistent with, or impose requirements in addition cy to receive and resolve complaints submitted
AGENCY.— to, the requirements of this Act. by program participants, the program partici-
‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—For the period during ‘‘(ii) SUBSEQUENT PLANS.—Except as provided pant’s authorized representative, sponsors, em-
which a State apprenticeship agency is recog- in clause (i), a State plan shall be submitted to ployers, or nonprofit compliance organizations,
nized under subsection (a) and to maintain such the Administrator not later than 120 days prior such as complaints concerning equal employ-
recognition, the State apprenticeship agency to the end of the 4-year period covered by the ment opportunity or discrimination, violations
shall carry out the requirements of this Act. preceding State plan. of the apprenticeship agreement, or violations of
‘‘(2) PROGRAM RECOGNITION.—With respect to ‘‘(B) APPROVAL.—A State plan shall be sub- requirements under this Act.
a State with a State apprenticeship agency, the ject to the approval of the Administrator and ‘‘(B) COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS.—
State apprenticeship agency shall have sole au- shall be considered to be approved at the end of Any controversy arising under an apprentice-
thority to recognize and register a pre-appren- the 90-day period beginning on the date that the ship agreement which is covered by a collective
ticeship, youth apprenticeship, or apprentice- plan is submitted under this paragraph, unless bargaining agreement shall not be subject to the
ship program in such State, which shall in- the Administrator, during the 90-day period, system described in subparagraph (A), except
clude— provides the State apprenticeship agency, in that complaints concerning discrimination or
‘‘(A) determining whether such program is in writing— any matters described in subparagraph (5)(B)
compliance with the standards for such program ‘‘(i) an explanation for why the State plan is shall be subject to such system.
under section 122; inconsistent with the requirements of this Act; ‘‘(7) STATE APPRENTICESHIP HUBS.—Each State
‘‘(B) in the case of such a program that is in and plan shall describe how the State will support,
compliance with such standards, recognizing ‘‘(ii) an opportunity for an appeal of such de- in a manner that takes into consideration geo-
the program and providing a certificate of rec- termination to an Administrative Law Judge for graphic diversity, the creation and implementa-
ognition for such program; the Department of Labor not later than 30 days tion of apprenticeship hubs throughout the
‘‘(C) providing technical assistance to current after receipt of the notice of denial from the Ad- State that shall work with industry and sector
or potential sponsors; and ministrator. partnerships to expand programs under the na-
‘‘(D) in the case of such a program that fails ‘‘(C) MODIFICATIONS.— tional apprenticeship system, and
to meet the requirements of this Act, providing ‘‘(i) MODIFICATIONS.—At the end of the first 2- apprenticeable occupations, in the State.
for the withdrawal of recognition of the pro- year period of any 4-year State plan, the State ‘‘(8) STATE APPRENTICESHIP PERFORMANCE
gram in accordance with section 131(b). may submit modifications to the State plan to OUTCOMES.—Each State plan shall—
‘‘(3) STATE APPRENTICESHIP COUNCIL.— reflect changes in labor market and economic ‘‘(A) in coordination with the Administrator,
‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A State apprenticeship conditions or other factors affecting the imple- establish annual State performance goals for the
agency shall establish and continue to use a mentation of the State plan. programs registered by the State apprenticeship
State apprenticeship council, which shall oper- ‘‘(ii) APPROVAL.—A modified State plan sub- agency for the indicators described—
ate in compliance with the requirements of this mitted for review under clause (i) shall be sub- ‘‘(i) in subparagraph (A) of section 131(b)(1);
Act under the direction of the State apprentice- ject to the approval requirements described in and
ship agency. subparagraph (B). ‘‘(ii) in subparagraph (B)(ii) of section
‘‘(B) COMPOSITION.—A State apprenticeship ‘‘(3) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.—Each State Plan 131(b)(1); and
council may be regulatory or advisory in nature, shall describe how the State apprenticeship ‘‘(B) describe how the State apprenticeship
and shall— agency will provide technical assistance for— agency will collect performance data from pro-
‘‘(i) be composed of persons familiar with ‘‘(A) potential sponsors, employers, labor or- grams registered by the agency; and
apprenticeable occupations; and ganizations, joint labor-management organiza- ‘‘(C) annually report on the outcomes of each
‘‘(ii) be fairly balanced, with an equal number tions, qualified intermediaries, apprentices, edu- such program in relation to the State established
of— cation and training providers, credentialing goals under subparagraph (A).
‘‘(I) representatives of employer organizations, bodies, eligible entities, industry associations, or ‘‘(9) USES OF FUNDS.—Each State plan shall
including from nontraditional apprenticeship any potential program participant in the na- include a description of the uses described in
industries or occupations; tional apprenticeship system in the State for the subsection (d) of the allotment received by the
‘‘(II) representatives of labor organizations or purposes of recruitment, retention, program de- State apprenticeship agency under subsection
joint labor-management organizations, includ- velopment, expansion, or implementation, in- (f).
ing from nontraditional apprenticeship indus- cluding supporting remote or virtual learning or ‘‘(10) ALIGNMENT OF WORKFORCE ACTIVITIES.—
tries or occupations; and training, as necessary; Each State plan shall include a summary of
‘‘(III) public members; and ‘‘(B) sponsors of programs registered in the State-supported workforce development activi-
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
‘‘(iii) to the extent practicable, have not less State, including sponsors that are not meeting ties (including education and training) in the
than 1 member who is a member of the State performance goals under subtitle C, for purposes State, including—
workforce board. of assisting sponsors in meeting or exceeding ‘‘(A) a summary of the apprenticeship pro-
‘‘(C) SPECIAL RULE.—A State apprenticeship such goals; and grams on the list of eligible providers of training
council shall not be eligible for recognition as a ‘‘(C) sponsors of programs registered in that services under section 122(d) of the Workforce
State apprenticeship agency. State for purposes of assisting such sponsors in Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
‘‘(c) STATE PLAN.— achieving State goals in diversity and equal op- 3152(d));
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5956 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
‘‘(B) the degree to which the programs under mediaries, related instruction providers, and po- ‘‘(ii) transitions from youth apprenticeships
the national apprenticeship system in the State tential program participants; and pre-apprenticeships to apprenticeship pro-
are aligned with and address the skill needs of ‘‘(ii) publicizing apprenticeship opportunities grams; and
the employers in the State identified by the and benefits; and ‘‘(iii) the placement into employment or fur-
State workforce development board; and ‘‘(iii) engaging State workforce and education ther education upon program completion; and
‘‘(C) a description of how apprenticeship pro- systems for collaboration and alignment across ‘‘(F) expanding the list of eligible providers of
grams will receive expedited consideration to be systems; training services under section 122(d) of the
included on the list of eligible providers of train- ‘‘(E) supporting the enrollment and appren- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to
ing services under section 122(d) of the Work- ticeship certification requirements to allow vet- include programs under the national appren-
force Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 erans and other individuals eligible for the edu- ticeship system in the State (29 U.S.C. 3152(d)).
U.S.C. 3152(d)). cational assistance programs under chapters 30 ‘‘(4) LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES.—
‘‘(11) STATE STRATEGIC VISION.—Each State through 36 of title 38, United States Code, and ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A State apprenticeship
plan shall include a summary of the State’s any related educational assistance programs agency may reserve not more than 15 percent of
strategic vision and set of goals for preparing an under laws administered by the Secretary of the funds received under subsection (f) in sup-
educated and skilled workforce and for meeting Veterans Affairs, to use such assistance for the port of State apprenticeship initiatives described
the skilled workforce needs of employers, includ- apprenticeship program, including the require- in this paragraph.
ing in existing and emerging in-demand indus- ment of designating a certifying official; and ‘‘(B) DIVERSITY.—Not less than 5 percent of
try sectors and occupations as identified by the ‘‘(F) supporting the retention and completion the amount reserved under subparagraph (A)
State, and how the programs registered by the of program participants in such programs, such shall be used by the State apprenticeship agency
State apprenticeship agency in the State will as by assisting with the costs— for supporting and expanding diversity in
‘‘(i) related to enrolling in such programs; or apprenticeable occupations under the national
help to meet such goals. ‘‘(ii) of assessments related to obtaining a rec-
‘‘(12) STRATEGY FOR ANY JOINT PLANNING, apprenticeship system in the State and program
ognized postsecondary credential. participant populations in the State.
ALIGNMENT, COORDINATION, AND LEVERAGING OF ‘‘(2) EDUCATIONAL ALIGNMENT.—The State ap-
FUNDS.—Each State plan shall provide a de-
‘‘(C) INCENTIVES FOR EMPLOYERS.—A State
prenticeship agency shall use not less than 10 apprenticeship agency may use funds reserved
scription of the State apprenticeship agency’s percent of such funds to engage with the State
strategy for joint planning, alignment, coordi- under subparagraph (A) to incentivize employ-
education system to provide technical assistance ers to participate in programs under the na-
nation, and leveraging of funds— and best practices regarding—
‘‘(A) with the State’s workforce development tional apprenticeship system, such as costs re-
‘‘(A) alignment of youth apprenticeship pro- lated to program development, staffing for men-
system, to achieve the strategic vision and goals grams with the secondary education programs
described in paragraph (11), including the core tors and supervisors, related instruction, or the
in the State, including support for career explo- creation of industry or sector partnerships to
programs defined in section 3 of the Workforce ration, career pathways, education and career
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. support employer participation.
planning, and engagement with youth appren- ‘‘(D) STATE-SPECIFIC INITIATIVES.—A State ap-
3102) and the elements related to system align- ticeship programs for teachers, career guidance prenticeship agency may use funds reserved
ment under section 102(b)(2)(B) of such Act (29 and academic counselors, school leaders, admin- under subparagraph (A) for State-specific ini-
U.S.C. 3112(b)(2)(B)); istrators, and specialized instructional support
‘‘(B) for programs under the national appren- tiatives, such as the development or expansion
personnel and paraprofessionals; of youth apprenticeship programs or apprentice-
ticeship system in the State with other Federal ‘‘(B) alignment of related instruction provided
education programs, including programs ship programs in high-skill, high-wage, or in-de-
under the national apprenticeship system in the mand industry sectors and occupations.
under— State with academic credit granting postsec- ‘‘(5) STATE MATCH FOR FEDERAL INVEST-
‘‘(i) the Elementary and Secondary Education ondary programs (including developing career MENT.—
Act of 1965; pathways, articulation agreements, and prior ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Except in the case of ex-
‘‘(ii) the Individuals with Disabilities Edu- learning assessments); and ceptional circumstances, as determined by the
cation Act; ‘‘(C) the joint planning, alignment, coordina- Administrator, in order to receive a full allot-
‘‘(iii) the Carl D. Perkins Career and Tech- tion, and leveraging of funds described in sub- ment under subsection (f), a State apprentice-
nical Education Act of 2006; and paragraphs (B) and (C) of subsection (c)(12). ship agency shall use matching funds from non-
‘‘(iv) the Higher Education Act of 1965; and ‘‘(3) WORKFORCE ALIGNMENT.—The State ap-
‘‘(C) to provide information about access to Federal resources to carry out the activities of
prenticeship agency shall use not less than 10 the agency under this Act in an amount not less
available State assistance or assistance under percent of such funds to engage with the State
related Federal programs, including such assist- than 25 percent of such allotment.
workforce development system to provide tech- ‘‘(B) TRANSITION PERIOD.—The requirement
ance under— nical assistance and best practices regarding— under this paragraph shall take effect with re-
‘‘(i) section 6(d) of the Food and Nutrition Act ‘‘(A) alignment with the State’s workforce ac- spect to a State apprenticeship agency on the
of 2008; tivities and strategic vision in accordance with
‘‘(ii) subsection (c)(1) of section 3672 of title date that is 1 day after the date on which the
paragraphs (10), (11), and subparagraphs (A) transition period for such agency under sub-
38, United States Code; and (C) of paragraph (12) of subsection (c);
‘‘(iii) section 231 of the Second Chance Act of section (a)(3)(C)(ii) ends.
‘‘(B) guidance for training staff of the work- ‘‘(e) DERECOGNITION OF STATE APPRENTICE-
2007 (34 U.S.C. 60541); and force development system, including the voca- SHIP AGENCIES.—
‘‘(iv) the State Temporary Assistance for tional rehabilitation agencies, within the State ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary may with-
Needy Families programs under part A of title on the value of programs under the national ap- draw recognition of a State apprenticeship
IV of the Social Security Act. prenticeship system as a work-based learning agency before the end of the agency’s 4-year
‘‘(13) STATE APPRENTICESHIP COUNCIL.—Each option for participants, including participants recognition period under subsection (a)(2)(B) if
State plan shall provide for a description of the of programs authorized under the Workforce In- the Secretary determines, after notice and an
composition, roles, and responsibility of the novation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et opportunity for a hearing, that the State ap-
State apprenticeship council, and how the seq.) such as Job Corps under subtitle C of title prenticeship agency has failed for one of the
Council will comply with the requirements of I of such Act and YouthBuild under section 171 reasons described in paragraph (2), and has not
subsection (b)(3). of such Act; been in compliance with the performance im-
‘‘(d) STATE APPRENTICESHIP AGENCY FUND- ‘‘(C) providing a list of programs under the provement plan under paragraph (3) to remedy
ING.—A State apprenticeship agency shall use national apprenticeship system that are offered such failure.
funds received under clauses (i) and (ii) of sub- in the State, including in the State’s high-skill, ‘‘(2) DERECOGNITION CRITERIA.—The recogni-
section (f)(1)(A) according to the following re- high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or oc- tion of a State apprenticeship agency under this
quirements: cupations; section may be withdrawn under paragraph (1)
‘‘(1) PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION.—The State ‘‘(D) alignment of funding received and re- in a case in which the State apprenticeship
apprenticeship agency shall use such funds to porting required under this Act, including rel- agency fails to—
support the administration of programs under evant placement, retention, and earnings infor- ‘‘(A) adopt or properly enforce a State plan;
the national apprenticeship system across the mation, with the Workforce Innovation and Op- ‘‘(B) properly carry out its role as the sole reg-
State, including for— portunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.), and tech- istration agency in the State;
‘‘(A) staff and resources; nical assistance in how individual training ac- ‘‘(C) submit a report under section 131(b)(1)(B)
‘‘(B) oversight and evaluation as required counts under section 134(c)(3) of such Act could for any program year;
under this Act; be used to pay for the costs of enrolling and ‘‘(D) meet the State levels of performance as
‘‘(C) technical assistance to program sponsors, participating in programs under the national described in subsection (c)(8)(A) or demonstrate
program participants, employers, labor organi- apprenticeship system; improvements in performance for 3 consecutive
zations, joint labor-management organizations, ‘‘(E) partnerships with State or local work- program years; or
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
education and training providers, and qualified force development boards, State workforce agen- ‘‘(E) otherwise fulfill or operate in compliance
intermediaries; cies, and one-stop centers and one-stop opera- with the requirements of this Act.
‘‘(D) pre-apprenticeship, youth, and appren- tors that assist program participants in access- ‘‘(3) DERECOGNITION PROCESS.—
ticeship program recruitment and development, ing supportive services to support— ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—If a State apprenticeship
including for— ‘‘(i) the recruitment, retention, and comple- agency fails for any of the reasons described in
‘‘(i) engaging potential providers of such pro- tion of programs under the national apprentice- paragraph (2), the Secretary shall provide tech-
grams such as employers, qualified inter- ship system; nical assistance to such agency for corrective
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5957
action to remedy such failure, including assist- drawing such recognition and ending on the Act of 2020, in order to cooperate with the Sec-
ance in the development of a performance im- date on which the Administrator establishes a retary of Education and promote awareness and
provement plan. State Office of Apprenticeship in the State; and adoption of apprenticeship programs, the Sec-
‘‘(B) REDUCTION OF FUNDS.—Except in the ‘‘(iii) return any unused funds received under retary (acting through the Administrator)
case of exceptional circumstances as determined this Act. shall—
by the Administrator, in a case in which such a ‘‘(5) REINSTATEMENT OF RECOGNITION.—A ‘‘(1) enter into an interagency agreement with
State apprenticeship agency continues such fail- State apprenticeship agency that has had its the Secretary of Education to promote and sup-
ure after the provision of the technical assist- recognition withdrawn under this section may port integration and alignment of programs
ance under subparagraph (A)— have such recognition reinstated upon presen- under the national apprenticeship system with
‘‘(i) the percentage of the funds to be allotted tation of adequate evidence that the State ap- secondary, postsecondary, and adult education,
to the State apprenticeship agency under sub- prenticeship agency has— through the activities described in this section;
section (f) for each fiscal year following the fis- ‘‘(A) submitted an application under sub- and
cal year in which such failure has been identi- section (a)(2), and ‘‘(2) submit to the Committee on Education
fied shall be reduced by 5 percentage points; and ‘‘(B) demonstrated the ability to operate in and Labor of the House of Representatives and
‘‘(ii) the Administrator shall provide notice to compliance with the requirements of this Act. the Committee on Health, Education, Labor,
the State apprenticeship agency that the agen- ‘‘(f) RESERVATION AND STATE ALLOTMENTS.— and Pensions of Senate, such agreement and
cy’s recognition under this section may be with- ‘‘(1) STATE ALLOTMENTS.— any modifications to such agreement.
‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Of the amount appro- ‘‘(b) ALIGNMENT FOR YOUTH APPRENTICE-
drawn if the agency fails to remedy the failure.
‘‘(C) TERMINATION OF PROCEEDINGS.—If the priated under subsection (g) for a fiscal year— SHIPS.—In order to promote alignment between
‘‘(i) 33 1⁄3 percent shall be equally distributed youth apprenticeship programs and high school
Administrator determines that the State appren-
among each State Office of Apprenticeship, out- graduation requirements, the interagency agree-
ticeship agency’s corrective action under sub-
lying area, and eligible State; and ment under subsection (a) shall describe how
paragraph (A) has addressed the agency’s fail-
‘‘(ii) 66 2⁄3 percent shall be allotted to eligible the Secretaries will work to provide—
ure identified under paragraph (2), the Adminis-
States on the basis described in subparagraph ‘‘(1) information and resources to—
trator shall—
(B). ‘‘(A) parents and students to promote a better
‘‘(i) restore the agency’s full funding alloca- ‘‘(B) FORMULA.—
tion under this title for the next full fiscal year; understanding of programs under the national
‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Of the amount available apprenticeship system and their value in sec-
and under subparagraph (A)(ii)—
‘‘(ii) notify the State apprenticeship agency ondary and postsecondary education and career
‘‘(I) 25 percent shall be allotted on the basis of pathways by not later than middle school; and
that the agency’s recognition will not be with- the relative share of program participants in
drawn under this section for the reason for ‘‘(B) school leaders (working with academic
each eligible State, as determined on the basis of counselors, teachers, and faculty) about the
which the agency’s funding under this title was the most recent satisfactory data available from
most recently reduced. value of such programs and information on how
the Administrator, compared to the total number to effectively align youth apprenticeship pro-
‘‘(D) OPPORTUNITY FOR HEARING.— of program participants in all eligible States, as
‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—In a case in which a State grams with secondary and career and technical
determined on such basis; education programs; and
apprenticeship agency fails to remedy a failure ‘‘(II) 25 percent shall be allotted on the basis
identified under paragraph (2), the Adminis- ‘‘(2) technical assistance on how to—
of the relative share of program participants ‘‘(A) align related instruction and
trator shall— who have completed a program under the na-
‘‘(I) notify, in writing, the State apprentice- apprenticeable occupation skills and com-
tional apprenticeship system in each eligible petencies to high school graduation require-
ship agency of the failure of the State appren-
State during the most recent 5-year period, as ments;
ticeship agency, including a description of such
determined on the basis of the most recent satis- ‘‘(B) offer related instruction through dual
failure and an explanation that the agency’s
factory data available from the Administrator, and concurrent enrollment programs and other
recognition under this section may be with-
compared to the total 5-year average of program accelerated learning programs, as described in
drawn as a result of such failure; and
‘‘(II) offer the State apprenticeship agency an participants who have completed a program in section 4104(b)(3)(A)(i)(IV) of the Elementary
opportunity to request a hearing not later than all eligible States, as determined on such basis; and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
30 days after the date of such notice. and 7114(b)(3)(A)(i)(IV));
‘‘(ii) REFERRAL TO OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE ‘‘(III) 50 percent shall be allotted on the basis ‘‘(C) facilitate transitions for youth appren-
LAW JUDGES.—In a case in which the State ap-
described in clause (ii). tices who have completed their youth appren-
‘‘(ii) ALLOTMENTS BASED ON BLS AND ACS ticeships into further education, including an
prenticeship agency requests a hearing under
DATA.—Of the amount available under clause associate, baccalaureate, or advanced degree,
clause (i)(II), the Administrator shall refer the
(i)(III)— and related apprenticeship opportunities; and
matter to the Office of Administrative Law ‘‘(I) 331⁄3 percent shall be allotted on the basis ‘‘(D) align activities carried out under this
Judges for a recommended decision by the Ad- of the relative share of individuals in the civil- Act with eligible funding from, and planning
ministrative Review Board for final agency ac- ian labor force in each eligible State, compared processes for, the Carl D. Perkins Career and
tion. to the total number of individuals in the civilian
‘‘(4) REQUIREMENTS REGARDING WITHDRAWAL Technical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2301
labor force in all eligible States; et seq.), the Elementary and Secondary Edu-
OF RECOGNITION.— ‘‘(II) 331⁄3 percent shall be allotted on the basis
‘‘(A) OFFICE OF APPRENTICESHIP.— cation Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.), the
of the relative share of individuals living below Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20
‘‘(i) PRIOR TO ORDER.—Prior to the with-
the poverty line in each eligible State, compared U.S.C. 1400 et seq.), the Rehabilitation Act of
drawal of the recognition of a State apprentice-
to the total number of individuals living below 1973, and the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
ship agency under this section, the Adminis-
the poverty line in all eligible States; and U.S.C. 1001 et seq.).
trator shall— ‘‘(III) 331⁄3 percent shall be allotted on the
‘‘(I) provide to the State apprenticeship agen- ‘‘(c) APPRENTICESHIP COLLEGE CONSORTIUM.—
basis of the relative number of unemployed indi- In order to support the establishment of a col-
cy an order withdrawing recognition of such
viduals in each eligible State, compared to the lege consortium of postsecondary educational
agency under this section; and
‘‘(II) establish a State Office of Apprentice- total number of unemployed individuals in all institutions, related instruction providers, spon-
ship; and eligible States. sors, qualified intermediaries, employers, labor
‘‘(ii) AFTER ORDER.—Not later than 30 days ‘‘(2) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection— organizations, and joint labor-management or-
‘‘(A) ELIGIBLE STATE.—The term ‘eligible
after the date of such order, provide notification ganizations for the purposes of promoting
State’ means a State (as defined in section 2)
of the withdrawal to the sponsors of the pro- stronger connections between programs under
that has a State apprenticeship agency.
grams under the national apprenticeship system the national apprenticeship system and partici-
‘‘(B) POVERTY LINE.—The term ‘poverty line’
in such State that were registered with the State pating 2- and 4-year postsecondary educational
has the meaning given such term in section 3 of
apprenticeship agency to enable each such institutions, the interagency agreement under
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
sponsor to be registered with the Administrator subsection (a) shall include a description of how
(29 U.S.C. 3102).
(acting through the State Office of Apprentice- ‘‘(C) UNEMPLOYED INDIVIDUAL.—The term the Secretaries will—
ship established under clause (i)(II)). ‘‘(1) support data sharing systems that align
‘unemployed individual’ has the meaning given
‘‘(B) STATE APPRENTICESHIP AGENCY REQUIRE- education records and records of programs
such term in section 3 of the Workforce Innova-
MENTS.—A State agency whose recognition as a under the national apprenticeship system re-
tion and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3102).
State apprenticeship agency under this section ‘‘(g) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— garding whether program participants who re-
has been withdrawn under paragraph (3) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry ceive financial aid under title IV of the Higher
shall— out this section— Education Act of 1965 enroll in, or complete,
‘‘(i) provide to the Administrator program ‘‘(1) $75,000,000 for fiscal year 2021; postsecondary coursework while participating in
standards, apprenticeship agreements, comple- ‘‘(2) $85,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; a program under such system;
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
tion records, cancellation and suspension ‘‘(3) $95,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; ‘‘(2) provide guidance on how to align eligible
records, performance metrics, and any other ‘‘(4) $105,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; and funding from, planning processes for, and the
documents relating to the State’s programs ‘‘(5) $115,000,000 for fiscal year 2025. requirements of the Carl D. Perkins Career and
under the national apprenticeship system in the ‘‘SEC. 114. INTERAGENCY AGREEMENT WITH DE- Technical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2301
State; PARTMENT OF EDUCATION. et seq.), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the
‘‘(ii) cooperate fully during the transition pe- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 1 year after Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001 et
riod beginning on the date of the order with- the effective date of the National Apprenticeship seq.) with this Act;
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5958 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
‘‘(3) require all participants of the apprentice- ‘‘Subtitle B—Process and Standards for the ‘‘(II) have training in teaching techniques
ship college consortium to enter into agreements National Apprenticeship System and learning styles, or will obtain such training
to— ‘‘SEC. 121. APPRENTICEABLE OCCUPATIONS before providing the related technical instruc-
‘‘(A) have an articulation agreement with a STANDARDS. tion; and
participating sponsor of an apprenticeship pro- ‘‘For an occupation to be an apprenticeable ‘‘(iv) where appropriate and to the extent
gram, which may include a 2- or 4-year postsec- occupation under this Act, a person seeking ap- practicable, shall be aligned to a career path-
ondary educational institution; proval for such occupation to be an way.
‘‘(B) create or expand the awarding and ar- apprenticeable occupation shall submit an ap- ‘‘(D) A progressively increasing, clearly de-
ticulation of academic credit for related instruc- plication to the Administrator that demonstrates fined schedule of wages to be paid to the ap-
tion completed and credentials awarded to pro- that such apprenticeable occupation is in-de- prentice that is—
gram participants as part of a program under ‘‘(i) consistent with measurable skill gains;
mand and will prepare individuals for the full
the national apprenticeship system; and and
range of skills and competencies needed for such ‘‘(ii) ensures the entry wage is not less than
‘‘(C) support the creation or expansion of elec- occupation by describing how such
tronic transcripts for apprenticeship programs the greater of—
apprenticeable occupation shall— ‘‘(I) the minimum wage required under section
and all academic content, including related in- ‘‘(1) meet the industry-recognized occupa- 6(a) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29
struction and on-the-job training; tional standards under section 111(b)(5)(C); or U.S.C. 206(a)); or
‘‘(4) provide technical assistance on eligible ‘‘(2) involve the progressive attainment of ‘‘(II) the applicable wage required by other
uses of financial aid, including the Federal skills, competencies, and knowledge that are— applicable Federal or State laws (including reg-
work study program under part C of title IV of ‘‘(A) clearly identified and commonly recog- ulations) or collective bargaining agreements.
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. nized throughout the relevant industry or occu- ‘‘(E) The term of the apprenticeship program,
1087–51 et seq.), for related instruction for pro- pation; which may be measured using—
grams under the national apprenticeship sys- ‘‘(B) customarily learned or enhanced in a ‘‘(i) a time-based model, which requires the
tem; practical way through a structured, systematic completion of the industry standard for on-the-
‘‘(5) provide to consortium participants or po- program of on-the-job supervised learning and job learning hours, which in no case shall be
tential participants information regarding— related instruction to supplement such learning; less than a cumulative 2,000 hours, unless an al-
‘‘(A) a list of apprenticeship programs in re- and ternative requirement is put forth by the em-
lated occupations offered in the State or avail- ‘‘(C) offered through a time-based, com- ployer and sponsor from a nontraditional ap-
able under the Office of Apprenticeship that petency-based, or hybrid model as described in prenticeship industry or occupation as of the
may become part of the consortium; section 122(b)(1)(E). date of the enactment of the National Appren-
‘‘(B) information on how to develop an ap- ‘‘SEC. 122. QUALITY STANDARDS OF PROGRAMS ticeship Act of 2020 that reflects industry stand-
prenticeship program; UNDER THE NATIONAL APPRENTICE- ards and the relative hazards of the occupation,
‘‘(C) information on Federal, State, and local SHIP SYSTEM. and is accepted by the Secretary and registra-
financial resources available to assist with the ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary, acting tion agency;
establishment and implementation of appren- through the Administrator, shall formulate and ‘‘(ii) a competency-based model, which re-
ticeship programs; and promote the furtherance of quality standards quires the attainment of competency in the oc-
‘‘(D) information on related qualified inter- necessary to safeguard the welfare of appren- cupation; or
mediaries or industry or sector partnerships sup- tices, pre-apprentices, and youth apprentices. ‘‘(iii) a hybrid model, which blends the time-
porting apprenticeship programs, as applicable; ‘‘(b) APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM STANDARDS.— based and competency-based approaches.
and In addition to the standards described in sub- ‘‘(F) The methods used to measure an appren-
‘‘(6) support information regarding the ap- section (e), an apprenticeship program shall tice’s skills and competencies, which may in-
prenticeship consortium being made available on meet the following standards: clude an initial diagnostic assessment or assess-
a publicly accessible website, including— ‘‘(1) The program has an organized and clear- ment of credentials that verify an individual’s
‘‘(A) a list of participating members of the ly written plan, developed by the sponsor, that foundational knowledge and skills that would
consortium, apprenticeship programs provided, includes, at a minimum, the following informa- be needed to succeed in an apprenticeship pro-
credentials awarded with each program, and tion: gram, and which shall include—
available apprenticeable occupations; and ‘‘(A) The employment and training to be re- ‘‘(i) in the case of a time-based apprenticeship
‘‘(B) models of articulation agreements, prior ceived by each apprentice participating in the described in subparagraph (E)(i), the individual
learning assessments, and competency-based program, including— apprentice’s completion of the required hours of
curriculum for related instruction for illus- ‘‘(i) an outline of the work processes or the on-the-job learning as described in a work proc-
trative purposes. plan in which the apprentice will receive super- ess schedule; or
‘‘(d) BEST PRACTICE DEVELOPMENT AND SHAR- vised work experience, on-the-job training, and ‘‘(ii) in the case of a competency-based model
ING.— on-the-job learning; described in subparagraph (E)(ii), the individual
‘‘(1) DISSEMINATION.—Such interagency agree- ‘‘(ii) the allocation of the approximate amount apprentice’s successful demonstration of ac-
ment shall require that the Secretaries dissemi- of time that will be spent in each major work quired skills and knowledge through appro-
nate information on the value of programs process by the apprentice; priate means of testing and evaluation for such
under the national apprenticeship system, in- ‘‘(iii) a description of the mentoring that will competencies, and by requiring apprentices to
cluding relevant placement, retention, and earn- be provided to the apprentice; and complete a paid on-the-job learning component
ings information, labor market data from the ‘‘(iv) a description or timeline explaining the of the apprenticeship;
local area, and sector forecasts to determine ‘‘(iii) in the case of a hybrid apprenticeship
periodic reviews and evaluations of the appren-
described in subparagraph (E)(iii), a combina-
high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry tice’s performance on the job and in related in-
tion of a specified minimum number of hours of
sectors or occupations of such programs, to local struction.
on-the-job learning and the successful dem-
education and training providers, labor organi- ‘‘(B) A process for maintaining appropriate
onstration of competency, as described in sub-
zations, or joint labor-management organiza- progress records, including the reviews and
paragraph (E)(i) and a work process schedule.
tions (including those representing teachers). evaluations described in subparagraph (A)(iv). ‘‘(2) The program equally grants advanced
‘‘(2) CLEARINGHOUSE.—Such agreement shall ‘‘(C) A description of the organized related in- standing or credit to all individuals applying for
require the Secretaries to create a clearinghouse struction the apprentice will receive in technical the apprenticeship with demonstrated com-
of best practices— subjects related to the occupation, which— petency or acquired experience, training, or
‘‘(A) for improving performance and increas- ‘‘(i) for time-based or hybrid apprenticeship skills, and provides commensurate wages for
ing alignment of education and programs under programs as described in paragraph (E), shall any progression in standing or credit so grant-
the national apprenticeship system, including include not less than 144 hours for each year of ed, including for veterans’ service-acquired
career pathways; and apprenticeship, unless an alternative require- skills and experiences.
‘‘(B) publicly disseminate information and re- ment is put forth by the employer and sponsor ‘‘(3) The program has minimum qualifications
sources on— that reflects industry standards and is accepted for individuals desiring to enter the apprentice-
‘‘(i) replicable related instruction and on-the- by the registration agency; ship program, with an eligible starting age for
job learning; and ‘‘(ii) may be accomplished through classroom an apprentice of not less than 16 years.
‘‘(ii) how to build an understanding of ap- instruction, occupational or industry courses, ‘‘(4) In the case of a program that chooses to
prenticeship opportunities available to students. instruction provided through electronic media, issue an interim credential, the program—
‘‘(e) DATA SHARING AGREEMENT.—The Secre- or other instruction approved by the registration ‘‘(A) clearly identifies each interim credential;
taries shall disseminate best practices for the agency; ‘‘(B) only issues an interim credential for rec-
alignment of education records and records of ‘‘(iii) shall be provided by one or more quali- ognized components of an apprenticeable occu-
programs under the national apprenticeship sys- fied instructors that— pation and demonstrates how each interim cre-
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
tem, including information on program partici- ‘‘(I)(aa) meet technical instructor require- dential specifically links to the knowledge,
pants who enroll in, complete, and receive aca- ments of the applicable education agency in the skills, and abilities associated with such compo-
demic credit for postsecondary coursework while State of registration; or nents; and
participating in such a program. ‘‘(bb) are subject matter experts, defined for ‘‘(C) establishes the process for assessing an
‘‘(f) SECRETARIES DEFINED.—In this section, purposes of this subparagraph as individuals individual apprentice’s demonstration of com-
the term ‘Secretaries’ means the Secretary of recognized within an industry as having exper- petency and measurable skill gains associated
Labor and the Secretary of Education. tise in a specific occupation; and with the particular interim credential.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5959
‘‘(c) PRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM STAND- ‘‘(i) is, to the extent practicable, aligned with ‘‘(2) contain the names and signatures of the
ARDS.—In addition to the standards described in high school diploma requirements and career program participant and the sponsor;
subsection (e), a pre-apprenticeship program clusters; and ‘‘(3) meet the requirements of subsection (b);
shall meet the following standards: ‘‘(ii) meets the additional requirements as de- and
‘‘(1) The program is designed to assist individ- scribed in subsection (b)(1)(C). ‘‘(4) be submitted to the registration agency in
uals who do not meet minimum qualifications ‘‘(D) A progressively increasing, clearly de- accordance with section 124 by the program
for an apprenticeship program as described in fined schedule of wages to be paid to the youth sponsor.
subsection (b) and prepare them to enter and apprentice. ‘‘(b) STANDARDS.—Each agreement under sub-
succeed in such an apprenticeship programs, in- ‘‘(E) The term of the youth apprenticeship section (a) shall contain, explicitly or by ref-
cluding by providing the skills and competency program, as described in subsection (b)(1)(E). erence, program standards under section 122, in-
attainment needed to enter the apprenticeship ‘‘(F) For a competency-based or hybrid youth cluding—
program. apprenticeship program, the methods used to ‘‘(1) in the case of an apprenticeship pro-
‘‘(2) The program— measure skill acquisition for a youth apprentice, gram—
‘‘(A) is carried out by a sponsor that has a including ongoing assessment against estab- ‘‘(A) that is time-based, a statement of the
written agreement with at least one sponsor of lished skill and competency standards as de- number of hours to be spent by the program par-
an apprenticeship program; scribed in subsection (b)(1)(F). ticipant in on-the-job learning and on-the-job
‘‘(B) demonstrates the existence of an active, ‘‘(G) Prepares the youth apprentice for place- training in order to complete the program;
advisory partnership with an industry or sector ment in further education, employment, or an ‘‘(B) that is competency-based, a description
partnership to inform the training and edu- apprenticeship program. of the skill sets to be attained by completion of
cation services necessary for a pre-apprentice- ‘‘(3) The program equally grants advanced the program, including the on-the-job learning
ship program; standing or credit to all individuals applying for and work components; or
‘‘(C) demonstrates evidence of sufficient de- ‘‘(C) that is a hybrid model, the minimum
the youth apprenticeship with demonstrated
mand in an apprenticeship program at the com- number of hours to be spent by the program par-
competency or acquired experience, training, or
pletion of a pre-apprenticeship program to sup- ticipant in on-the-job learning and work compo-
skills.
port a transition from a pre-apprenticeship to nents and in related instruction, and a descrip-
‘‘(4) In the case of a youth apprenticeship
an apprenticeship; and tion of the skill sets and competencies to be at-
program that chooses to issue an interim creden-
‘‘(D) demonstrates partnerships with qualified tained by completion of the program;
tial, the program meets the requirements of sub-
intermediaries, community-based organizations, ‘‘(2) the number of hours and form of related
section (b)(4).
labor organizations, or joint labor-management instruction, including how related instruction
‘‘(e) GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.—Each program
organizations. will be compensated (whether through academic
‘‘(3) The program includes a written plan de- under the national apprenticeship system shall
meet the following standards: credit, wages, or both), the costs the program
veloped by the sponsor of the pre-apprenticeship participant will incur for participating in the
program that is developed in consultation with ‘‘(1) The program—
‘‘(A) has adequate and safe equipment, envi- program (such as for equipment, related instruc-
the sponsor of the apprenticeship program de- tion, or assessment or licensure fees), and the
scribed in paragraph (2)(A), that— ronments, and facilities for training and super-
vision; recognized postsecondary credentials the pro-
‘‘(A) provides for work-based learning, and gram participants will be eligible to receive upon
paid work-based learning to the extent prac- ‘‘(B) provides safety training on-the-job and
in related instruction as applicable by the program completion;
ticable, in which an industry or sector partner- ‘‘(3) a schedule of the work processes in the
ship and a related instruction provider collabo- apprenticeable occupation; and
‘‘(C) provides adequate training for mentors occupation or industry divisions in which the
rate to provide training that will introduce par- program participant is to be trained and the ap-
ticipants to the skills, competencies, and mate- and qualified instructors on providing a safe
work and training environment. proximate time to be spent at each process;
rials used in one or more apprenticeable occupa- ‘‘(4) for apprenticeships or youth apprentice-
tions; ‘‘(2) The program records and maintains all
records concerning the program as may be re- ships, the graduated wage scale to be paid to
‘‘(B) is based on and aligned with national, the apprentices, benefits offered to the appren-
State, regional, or local industry standards for quired by the Secretary, the registration agency
of the program, or any other applicable law, in- tices, and how the wages and benefits compare
high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry to State, local, or regional wages in the related
sectors and occupations, and the requirements cluding records required under title 38, United
States Code, in order for veterans and other in- occupation; and
of the related apprenticeship program; ‘‘(5) demonstration of commitment to and com-
‘‘(C) to the extent appropriate and prac- dividuals eligible for educational assistance
under such title to use such assistance for en- pliance with subparagraphs (B) and (C) of sec-
ticable, meets the related instruction require-
rollment in the program. tion 111(b)(7).
ments as described in clauses (ii) through (iv) of
‘‘(3) The program provides all individuals ‘‘SEC. 124. REGISTRATION OF PROGRAMS UNDER
subsection (b)(1)(C) that includes enabling an THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP
individual to attain a secondary school diploma with an equal opportunity to participate in the SYSTEM.
or its recognized equivalent that enables a pre- program as described in subparagraphs (B) and
‘‘(a) PROGRAM REGISTRATION APPLICATION.—
apprentice to enter into an apprenticeship pro- (C) of section 111(b)(7).
In order to bring together employers and labor
gram; and ‘‘(4) The program awards a certificate of com-
for the formulation of programs under the na-
‘‘(D) includes mentoring, career exposure, ca- pletion in recognition of successful completion
tional apprenticeship system, the Administrator
reer planning, and career awareness activities. of the program, evidenced by an appropriate
shall provide for the registration of programs in
‘‘(d) YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM STAND- certificate issued by the registration agency,
ARDS.—In addition to the standards described in
which a sponsor applying to register a program
and in the case of apprenticeships and youth
subsection (e), a youth apprenticeship program under the national apprenticeship system shall
apprenticeships, prepares a program participant
shall meet the following standards: request registration of such program from a reg-
to obtain a recognized postsecondary credential.
‘‘(1) The program is designed for youth ap- istration agency by submitting the information
‘‘(5) The program provides that an individual
prentices who at the start of the program are required by the registration agency, including—
who is to become a program participant under
enrolled in high school. ‘‘(1) information demonstrating that each of
the program enters into a written apprenticeship
‘‘(2) The program includes each of the fol- the requirements of section 122 will be met for
agreement described in section 123 with the
lowing core elements: the program;
sponsor of the program. ‘‘(2) a copy of the apprenticeship agreement
‘‘(A) The employment and training to be re- ‘‘(6) The numeric ratio of program partici-
ceived by each youth apprentice participating in described in section 123 used by the sponsor;
pants to supervisors (such as journeyworkers, ‘‘(3) a written assurance that, if the program
the program, including— mentors, or on-the-job learning instructors, as
‘‘(i) an outline of the work processes or the is registered under this Act, the sponsor will ad-
applicable) for the apprenticeable occupation, minister the program in accordance with the re-
plan in which the youth apprentice will receive that are based on evidence-based and evidence-
supervised work experience and on-the-job quirements of this Act and comply with the re-
informed best practices for supervision, training, quirements of the apprenticeship agreement for
training or in an experiential setting; safety, and continuity of employment, through-
‘‘(ii) the allocation of the approximate amount each apprentice; and
out the work processes of the program, job site, ‘‘(4) methods the program sponsor will use to
of time that will be spent in each major work
department, or plant, appropriate for the degree report data describing outcomes associated with
process by the youth apprentice;
of hazard in different occupations, and con- the program as required by the registration
‘‘(iii) a description of the mentoring that will
sistent with provisions in collective bargaining agency—
be provided to the youth apprentice; and
‘‘(iv) a description or timeline explaining the agreements, as applicable, except if such ratios ‘‘(A) on an annual basis for any program
periodic reviews and evaluations of the youth are expressly prohibited by the collective bar- sponsor with fewer than 5 program participants;
apprentice’s performance on the job and in re- gaining agreements. or
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
lated instruction. ‘‘SEC. 123. APPRENTICESHIP AGREEMENTS. ‘‘(B) on a quarterly basis for any program
‘‘(B) A process for maintaining appropriate ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—To ensure the standards sponsor with 5 or more program participants.
progress records, including the reviews and described in section 122 are applied to programs ‘‘(b) RECOGNITION AND REGISTRATION PROC-
evaluations described in subparagraph (A)(iv). under the national apprenticeship system, the ESS.—
‘‘(C) Related classroom-based instruction, Administrator shall require a sponsor to develop ‘‘(1) REVIEW AND APPROVAL PROCESS.—
which may be fulfilled through dual or concur- an apprenticeship agreement that shall— ‘‘(A) PROVISIONAL APPROVAL REVIEW.—An ap-
rent enrollment, and— ‘‘(1) be the same for each program participant; plication submitted under subsection (a) that
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5960 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
the registration agency determines meets the re- ‘‘(B) in the case of a program that does not ‘‘(ii) the percentage of program participants
quirements described in such subsection shall be meet the requirements of this Act, provide tech- by race, sex ethnicity and, to the extent prac-
registered for a provisional 1-year period begin- nical assistance to the sponsor of such program ticable, by individuals with disabilities, as com-
ning not later than 30 days after such applica- to ensure that the sponsor is in compliance with pared to such percentages within the working
tion is submitted. During such period, the reg- this Act not later than 3 years after the date of age population who are in the geographical
istration agency shall accept and record the ap- enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of area from which the sponsor usually seeks or
prenticeship agreement as evidence of the pro- 2020. reasonably could seek program participants and
gram’s compliance and registration to operate ‘‘(c) MODIFICATIONS OR CHANGES TO YOUTH who meet the minimum eligibility requirements
such program. APPRENTICESHIP, PRE-APPRENTICESHIP, OR AP- for entry into in the program;
‘‘(B) FULL APPROVAL OR EXTENDED PROVI- PRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS.— ‘‘(iii) the percentage of program participants
SIONAL APPROVAL.—By the end of a provisional ‘‘(1) SPONSOR PROPOSAL.—Any sponsor that served by each of the programs that obtained
registration period for a program, the registra- wishes to modify a program, including the pro- unsubsidized employment in a field related to
tion agency providing provisional approval gram’s method of meeting the standards re- the apprenticeable occupation;
under subparagraph (A) shall review the pro- quired under this Act, shall submit the proposal ‘‘(iv) the average time to completion for the
gram for quality and for compliance with the for such change or modification to the registra- program as compared to the description in the
applicable standards under this subtitle and all tion agency for the program. agreement under paragraphs (1) and (2) of sec-
other applicable program requirements under ‘‘(2) REGISTRATION AGENCY REQUIREMENTS.— tion 123(b);
this Act, and— ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The registration agency ‘‘(v) the average cost per participant during
‘‘(i) if a registration agency conducting a pro- shall determine whether to approve the proposal the most recent program year and the 3 pre-
visional review determines that the program and notify the sponsor of the determination by ceding program years;
complies with the standards and requirements not later than 60 days after receipt of the pro- ‘‘(vi) the percentage of program participants
under this Act, the registration agency shall posal. who received supportive services;
fully approve the registration of the program; or ‘‘(B) APPROVAL OF PROPOSAL.—If the proposal ‘‘(vii) information on the State’s activities re-
‘‘(ii) if a registration agency conducting a is approved, the registration agency shall amend quired under section 113(c), including the
provisional review determines that the program the record of the program to reflect the modi- State’s uses of funds; and
is not conforming to the requirements or stand- fication or change, and provide the sponsor or ‘‘(viii) the disaggregation of the performance
ards under this Act, the registration agency may program administrator with an acknowledgment data described in clauses (i) through (vi)—
continue the provisional registration of the pro- of the amended program, by not later than 30 ‘‘(I) by the program type (apprenticeship,
gram through the first full training cycle for days after the date of approval. youth apprenticeship, or pre-apprenticeship
program participants, and conduct an addi- ‘‘(C) DISAPPROVAL OF PROPOSAL.—If the pro- program) involved; and
tional provisional review at the conclusion of posal is not approved, the registration agency ‘‘(II) by race, ethnicity, sex, age, and member-
the training cycle. shall— ship in a population specified in section 3(24) of
‘‘(C) FAILURE TO MEET REQUIREMENTS.—If, ‘‘(i) notify the sponsor of the reasons for the
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
after an initial provisional review under sub- disapproval and provide the sponsor with tech-
(29 U.S.C. 3102(24)).
paragraph (A), a registration agency conducting nical assistance to maintain the program as
‘‘(C) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—Not later than
such provisional review determines that the pro- originally registered; 60 days after receiving a report under subpara-
gram is not in operation or does not conform to ‘‘(ii) provide the sponsor with the opportunity
graph (B), the Secretary shall transmit to the
the requirements under this Act, the registration to submit a revised modification proposal, in-
Committee on Education and Labor of the
agency shall recommend technical assistance cluding providing appropriate technical assist-
House of Representatives and the Committee on
and corrective action for the program, or ance to modify the proposal in order to meet the
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the
deregistration, in accordance with procedures requirements of this Act; and
‘‘(iii) in a case in which the sponsor submits Senate.
established under subsections (b) and (c) of sec- ‘‘(D) PUBLICATION.—The Administrator shall
tion 131. a revised modification proposal, not later than
60 days after receipt of such proposal— annually make available on a publicly acces-
‘‘(2) CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION.—
‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A registration agency that ‘‘(I) approve the proposal; or sible website each report received under sub-
registers a program under paragraph (1) shall— ‘‘(II) disapprove the proposal and provide the paragraph (B) not later than 30 days after re-
‘‘(i) provide the sponsor of the program with sponsor with technical assistance to maintain ceipt of such report.
a certificate of registration or other written evi- the program as originally registered. ‘‘(2) COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAM REVIEWS.—
dence of registration; and ‘‘Subtitle C—Evaluations and Research ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A registration agency shall
‘‘(ii) provide a copy of the certificate of reg- periodically review each program registered
‘‘SEC. 131. PROGRAM EVALUATIONS.
istration to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs or under section 124 by such agency for quality as-
‘‘(a) PURPOSE.—The purpose of this section is surance and compliance with the requirements
the applicable State veterans agency for the to provide program performance transparency
purpose of aligning the registration process with of this Act.
across the programs under the national appren- ‘‘(B) TIMING OF REVIEWS.—A review described
the process for approving such program for eligi- ticeship system, assess the effectiveness of States
ble veterans’ use of supplemental educational in subparagraph (A) shall occur—
in achieving positive outcomes for program par- ‘‘(i) at the end of the first full training cycle
assistance benefits. ticipants served by those programs, and estab-
‘‘(B) REGISTRATION NAME.—A program shall of program participants under the program; and
lish performance accountability measures re- ‘‘(ii) beginning after the review described in
be registered in the name of the sponsor, or if a lated to program completion and key indicators
sponsor enters into a partnership with an em- clause (i) at least once every 5 years.
of performance under the Workforce Innovation ‘‘(C) REVIEW.—The review shall be a com-
ployer who registers the program, in the name of and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.).
the employer. prehensive review regarding all aspects of the
‘‘(b) REVIEWS BY REGISTRATION AGENCIES.— program performance, including—
‘‘(3) PROGRAM PARTICIPANT REGISTRATION.—A ‘‘(1) PERFORMANCE REVIEWS.—
sponsor providing a program that is registered ‘‘(i) determining whether the registration
‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A registration agency
in accordance with paragraph (2) shall provide agency is receiving notification from the sponsor
shall—
to an individual seeking to be a program partici- ‘‘(i) annually collect performance data for of a program regarding individuals who are reg-
pant the opportunity to apply through the spon- each program registered under section 124 by istered as new youth apprentices, pre-appren-
sor, and shall— such agency to determine— tices, or apprentices under the program, or who
‘‘(A) enter into a written individual appren- ‘‘(I) the performance of the program with re- successfully complete the program, as required
ticeship agreement described in section 123 with spect to the indicators of performance under sec- under this Act;
each such individual before the commencement tion 116(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Workforce Innovation ‘‘(ii) determining whether the sponsor of the
of the program; and and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3141(b)(2)(A)(i) program is complying with the requirements of
‘‘(B) individually register each program par- or in the case of a youth apprenticeship pro- this Act;
ticipant with the registration agency by filing a gram, section 116(b)(2)(A)(ii)) of such Act (29 ‘‘(iii) evaluating the performance of the spon-
copy of the individual apprenticeship agreement U.S.C. 3141(b)(2)(A)(ii)), as applied to programs sor with respect to, at a minimum, the indicators
with the registration agency or as otherwise re- under the national apprenticeship system; and described in paragraph (1)(A)(i), with the per-
quired by the registration agency, and sharing a ‘‘(II) the completion rates of the program; and formance data disaggregated as described in
copy with the Administrator as appropriate, as ‘‘(ii) provide technical assistance for the col- paragraph (1)(B)(viii); and
described under section 123(a)(4). lection of the information under clause (i) of ‘‘(iv) ensuring the sponsor’s compliance with
‘‘(4) TRANSITION PROCESS FOR PREVIOUSLY AP- this subparagraph and subparagraph (B), as the requirement to provide equal opportunity in
PROVED PROGRAMS.—With respect to a program necessary. recruitment, training, and employment as de-
that was registered under this Act as of the day ‘‘(B) REPORTS.—The registration agency for a scribed in subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section
before the date of enactment of the National Ap- State shall annually prepare and submit to the 111(b)(7).
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
prenticeship Act of 2020, the registration agency Administrator a State performance report that ‘‘(D) REPORTS.—On completion of a review
shall take such steps as necessary to— includes the following information with respect under this paragraph, the registration agency
‘‘(A) in the case of a program that meets of to each program registered under section 124 by shall prepare and submit to the Administrator a
the requirements of this Act, maintain the status such agency, including— report containing the results of the review.
of the sponsor of the program as of the date be- ‘‘(i) information specifying the levels of per- ‘‘(c) SUBSEQUENT ACTION.—
fore such date of enactment as the sponsor of formance described in subparagraph (A), as ‘‘(1) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.—The registration
such program under this Act; and compared to goals set in section 113(c)(8)(A)(i); agency shall provide technical assistance to the
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5961
sponsor and identify areas that require tech- purpose of improving the management and ef- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall
nical assistance, including— fectiveness of the programs and activities car- award grants, contracts, or cooperative agree-
‘‘(A) to support the sponsor in creating a plan ried out under this Act and to assist in the eval- ments to eligible entities on a competitive basis
to meet the State goals described in section uation of the programs as described in section for one or more of the following purposes:
113(c)(8)(A)(ii), as applicable; and 131. ‘‘(A) CREATION AND EXPANSION ACTIVITIES.—
‘‘(B) assistance in the development of a per- ‘‘(b) TECHNIQUES.—The research conducted To expand the offerings of programs under the
formance improvement plan if the registration under this section shall utilize appropriate national apprenticeship system—
agency determines, pursuant to any review methodology and research designs. ‘‘(i) to create new apprenticeship programs in
under subsection (b), that the youth apprentice- ‘‘(c) CONTENTS.—Such research shall ad- a nontraditional apprenticeship industry or oc-
ship, pre-apprenticeship, or apprenticeship pro- dress— cupation, such as for programs demonstrating
gram— ‘‘(1) the general effectiveness of such pro- demand in information technology, energy,
‘‘(i) is not in operation; grams and activities in relation to their cost, in- green jobs, advanced manufacturing, health
‘‘(ii) is not in compliance with the require- cluding the extent to which the programs and care, or cybersecurity;
ments of this Act; or activities— ‘‘(ii) to expand existing apprenticeship pro-
‘‘(iii) is achieving levels of performance on ‘‘(A) improve the skill and employment com- grams demonstrating labor market demand;
any indicators described in subsection petencies of participants in comparison to com- ‘‘(iii) to create new or expand existing pre-ap-
(b)(1)(A)(i) that are lower than the State goals parably-situated individuals who did not par- prenticeship programs; or
for any program year. ticipate in such programs and activities; ‘‘(iv) to create new or expand existing youth
‘‘(2) CORRECTIVE ACTION AND DEREGISTRATION ‘‘(B) to the extent feasible, increase the levels
apprenticeship programs.
OF AN APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.—The registra- of total employment, of attainment of recognized
‘‘(B) ENCOURAGING EMPLOYER PARTICIPA-
tion agency may take corrective action, and if postsecondary credentials, and of measurable
TION.—To encourage employer participation in
warranted, deregister a youth apprenticeship, skills, above the levels that would have existed
programs under the national apprenticeship sys-
pre-apprenticeship, or apprenticeship program, in the absence of such programs and activities;
‘‘(C) respond to the needs reflected in labor tem—
after making a determination that the program ‘‘(i) that target individuals with barriers to
demonstrates persistent and significant failure market data in the local area and align with
high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industries employment in youth apprenticeship, pre-ap-
to perform successfully, which occurs when— prenticeship, or apprenticeship programs,
‘‘(A) the sponsor of the program consistently or occupations; and
‘‘(D) demonstrate a return on investment of prioritizing nontraditional apprenticeship popu-
fails to register at least 1 program participant;
Federal, State, local, sponsor, employer, and lations such as women, minorities, long-term
‘‘(B) the program shows a pattern of poor re-
other funding for programs under the national unemployed, individuals with a disability, indi-
sults on the indicators described in subsection
apprenticeship system, capturing the full level viduals with substance abuse issues, veterans,
(b)(1)(A)(i) over a period of 3 years, given the
of investment in, and impact of, such programs military spouses, individuals experiencing home-
characteristics of program participants and eco-
under the national apprenticeship system; lessness, individuals impacted by the criminal or
nomic conditions in the area served, or are lower
‘‘(2) the impact of the National Apprentice- juvenile justice system, and foster and former
than the national or State average;
‘‘(C) the program shows no indication of im- ship Act of 2020 on the general effectiveness of foster youth;
provement in the areas identified by the reg- programs under the national apprenticeship sys- ‘‘(ii) that are in high-need social service-re-
istration agency and in the performance im- tem, including the implementation of policies lated industries, sectors, or occupations, such as
provement plan under paragraph (1); or such as dual or concurrent enrollment pro- direct care workers and early childhood edu-
‘‘(D) the sponsor has not administered the grams, advanced standing, or industry recog- cators;
program in accordance with the program’s reg- nized apprenticeable occupations; ‘‘(iii) that target individuals currently or re-
istration, as applicable, or with the require- ‘‘(3) best practices in increasing nontradi- cently incarcerated; or
ments of this Act. tional apprenticeship populations’ participation ‘‘(iv) among small- and medium-sized employ-
‘‘(3) NOTIFICATION AND HEARING.—If the reg- in programs under the national apprenticeship ers.
istration agency makes a determination de- system; and ‘‘(C) INTERMEDIARY GRANTS.—If the eligible
scribed in paragraph (2), the registration agency ‘‘(4) opportunities to scale up effective models entity is a qualified intermediary—
shall notify the Secretary and the sponsor of the under the national apprenticeship system. ‘‘(i) to support national industry and equity
‘‘(d) REPORTS.— intermediaries in establishing or expanding sec-
determination in writing, and permit the spon-
‘‘(1) INDEPENDENT ENTITY.—The independent tor-based partnerships to support the delivery or
sor to request a hearing by the Office of Admin- entity carrying out the research shall prepare
istrative Law Judges. The registration agency expansion of programs under the national ap-
and submit to the Secretary— prenticeship system to significant scale in the
shall transmit to the Secretary a report con- ‘‘(A) an interim report containing findings
taining all pertinent facts and circumstances United States—
from the research; and ‘‘(I) in key sectors, including manufacturing,
concerning the determination, including find- ‘‘(B) a final report containing the results of
ings and a recommendation for deregistration, information technology, cyber security, health
the research, including policy recommendations. care, insurance and finance, energy, hospi-
and copies of all relevant documents and ‘‘(2) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—Not later than 60
records. If the sponsor does not request the tality, retail, construction, and other sectors
days after receipt of the interim report and final
hearing not later than 15 days after receiving identified by the Administrator and the Advi-
report described in subparagraphs (A) and (B)
such notification, the registration agency shall sory Committee as targeted for expansion under
of paragraph (1), respectively, the Secretary
deregister the program after the period for re- the national apprenticeship system; or
shall submit each report to the Committee on
‘‘(II) for nontraditional apprenticeship popu-
questing such a hearing has expired. Education and Labor of the House of Represent-
‘‘(4) NOTIFICATION AND TREATMENT OF AP- lations, women, minorities, individuals with dis-
atives and the Committee on Health, Education,
PRENTICES.—Not later than 15 days after the abilities, and individuals impacted by the crimi-
Labor, and Pensions of the Senate.
registration agency deregisters a program, the ‘‘(e) PUBLIC ACCESS.—The Secretary shall nal or juvenile justice system; or
sponsor or program administrator shall notify make the interim and final reports available on ‘‘(ii) to serve programs under the national ap-
program participant— a publicly accessible website not later than 60 prenticeship system in a local or regional set-
‘‘(A) of such deregistration and the effective days after the receipt of the interim and final ting.
date; report. ‘‘(D) EDUCATIONAL ALIGNMENT.—To strength-
‘‘(B) that such deregistration automatically en alignment between programs under the na-
‘‘Subtitle D—General Provisions
deprives the program participant of individual tional apprenticeship system and education and
‘‘SEC. 141. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. training providers with secondary and postsec-
registration as part of such youth apprentice-
‘‘(a) OFFICE OF APPRENTICESHIP.—There are ondary education systems, including degree and
ship, pre-apprenticeship, or apprenticeship pro- authorized to be appropriated to carry out sec-
gram, including the ability to receive a certifi- credential requirements.
tions 111, 112, 131, and 132— ‘‘(2) DURATION.—
cate of completion from the registration agency; ‘‘(1) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2021;
‘‘(C) that the deregistration of the program re- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall
‘‘(2) $60,000,000 for fiscal year 2022;
moves the program participant from eligibility ‘‘(3) $70,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; award grants under this subsection for a period
for any Federal financial or other assistance, or ‘‘(4) $80,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; and of not more than 3 years.
rights, privileges, or exemptions under Federal ‘‘(5) $90,000,000 for fiscal year 2025. ‘‘(B) EXTENSION.—The eligible entity may
law, that— ‘‘(b) INTERAGENCY AGREEMENT.—There are apply for, and the Administrator may grant, an
‘‘(i) relates to an apprentice; and authorized to be appropriated to carry out sec- extension of the grant period for not more than
‘‘(ii) requires the registration agency’s ap- tion 114— 1 additional 2-year period, if the grant recipient
proval; and ‘‘(1) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2021; demonstrates to the Administrator that the re-
‘‘(D) that all youth apprentices, pre-appren- ‘‘(2) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; cipient—
tices, or apprentices are referred to the registra- ‘‘(3) $14,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; ‘‘(i) has effectively implemented a project to
‘‘(4) $16,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; and
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
tion agency for information about potential achieve its stated purpose as described in sub-
transfers to other programs under the national ‘‘(5) $18,000,000 for fiscal year 2025. sections (e) and (f);
apprenticeship system. ‘‘TITLE II—MODERNIZING THE NATIONAL ‘‘(ii) has complied with the assurances as de-
‘‘SEC. 132. NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM FOR THE 21ST scribed in subsection (e)(9); and
RESEARCH. CENTURY GRANTS ‘‘(iii) has improved applicable outcomes, as
‘‘(a) RESEARCH.—The Secretary shall conduct, ‘‘SEC. 201. GRANT REQUIREMENTS. demonstrated through indicators referred to in
through an independent entity, research for the ‘‘(a) AUTHORITY.— section 203(a)(2).
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5962 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
‘‘(b) FUNDING REQUIREMENTS.— ‘‘(A) the need to create or expand the pro- ‘‘(1) CREATION AND EXPANSION ACTIVITIES.—
‘‘(1) MATCHING FUNDS REQUIRED.—The Admin- gram; and ‘‘(A) NEW APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS.—An eli-
istrator shall require, as a condition of receipt of ‘‘(B) a plan to align the activities supported gible entity applying to create new apprentice-
funds under this section, an eligible entity to by the grant with the labor market needs of ship programs and carry out activities in ac-
match funds awarded under this section in an high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry cordance with subsection (a)(1)(A)(i) shall in-
amount not less than 25 percent of the funds sectors or occupations. clude as part of their application a description
awarded to such recipient under this section. ‘‘(5) A plan— of—
Such eligible entity may make the matching ‘‘(A) to comply with requirements for an eval- ‘‘(i) any plans for further expansion upon de-
funds available directly or through donations uation and report under section 203; velopment of the program; and
from non-Federal, public, or private organiza- ‘‘(B) as appropriate, to coordinate activities ‘‘(ii) employers, and to the extent practicable,
tions, in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated. assisted under the grant with activities carried labor organizations or joint labor-management
‘‘(2) WAIVER.—The Administrator may waive out under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Tech- organizations, engaged in the program creation
the requirement under paragraph (1) if the enti- nical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2301 et and implementation.
ty demonstrates that exceptional circumstances seq.), the Elementary and Secondary Education
‘‘(B) EXPANDING APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS.—
prevent the entity from meeting the requirement, Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.), the Higher
An eligible entity applying to expand existing
such as demonstrating that the entity serves a Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.),
apprenticeship programs and carry out activities
high proportion of individuals with barriers to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
in accordance with subsection (a)(1)(A)(ii) shall
employment, or due to exceptional or uncontrol- (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.), and any related Federal
include as part of their application a description
lable circumstances, such as a natural disaster programs and if appropriate, how funds pro-
of employers engaged in the program expansion.
or a precipitous and unforeseen decline in the vided under these programs will be leveraged in
financial resources of the eligible entity. support of the programs supported by this ‘‘(C) CREATING OR EXPANDING PRE-APPREN-
‘‘(c) PRIORITY AND DISTRIBUTION.— TICESHIP PROGRAMS.—An eligible entity apply-
grant;
‘‘(1) PRIORITY.—In awarding grants under ‘‘(C) to use funds awarded under this section ing to create or expand pre-apprenticeship pro-
this section, the Administrator shall give pri- in support of the programs supported by this grams and carry out activities in accordance
ority to an eligible entity— grant, as described in section 202; with subsection (a)(1)(A)(iii) shall include as
‘‘(A) proposing to serve a high number or high ‘‘(D) to continue the program after the grant part of their application a description of—
percentage of participants who are from non- period ends; and ‘‘(i) a partnership between the eligible entity
traditional apprenticeship populations; and ‘‘(E) to recruit and retain program partici- and at least one apprenticeship program; and
‘‘(B) providing opportunities in high-wage, pants for pre-apprenticeship, youth apprentice- ‘‘(ii) existing partnerships with employers act-
high-skill, or in-demand sectors and occupa- ship, and apprenticeship programs, including ing in either an advisory capacity or actively
tions. from nontraditional apprenticeship populations, participating in the pre-apprenticeship program.
‘‘(2) GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION.—In awarding such as women, minorities, individuals with dis- ‘‘(D) CREATING OR EXPANDING YOUTH APPREN-
grants under this subsection, the Administrator abilities, individuals impacted by the criminal or TICESHIP PROGRAMS.—An eligible entity apply-
shall, to the extent practicable, ensure a geo- juvenile justice system, and individuals with ing to create or expand youth apprenticeship
graphically diverse distribution of grants, in- barriers to employment, to ensure program par- programs and carry out activities in accordance
cluding a geographically diverse distribution ticipants are able to access supportive services, with subsection (a)(1)(A)(iv) shall include as
among regions of the country and among urban, as applicable, and how such plan will support part of their application a description of—
suburban, and rural areas. the eligible entity in meeting the equal oppor- ‘‘(i) an existing partnership with at least one
‘‘(d) ELIGIBLE ENTITY.—To be eligible to apply
tunity requirements for diversity described in high school offering related instruction for the
for grants under this title, an eligible entity
subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section 111(b)(7) youth apprenticeship program, with existing in-
shall—
‘‘(1) demonstrate a partnership with two or and section 113(c)(5), as applicable. tegration into the academic content of the high
‘‘(6) For any grants expanding existing pro- school diploma requirements, or with dem-
more of the following:
‘‘(A) a State or local workforce development grams under the national apprenticeship sys- onstrated plans for integration of related in-
board or State or local workforce agency; tem, a description of— struction into the high school curriculum; and
‘‘(B) an education and training provider, or a ‘‘(A) a plan to coordinate the activities carried ‘‘(ii) existing partnerships with employers act-
consortium thereof; out under the grant with the existing program; ing in either an advisory capacity or actively
‘‘(C) a State apprenticeship agency; and participating in the youth apprenticeship pro-
‘‘(D) an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization; ‘‘(B) the effectiveness of the program, includ- gram.
‘‘(E) an industry or sector partnership, a ing demonstrations of programmatic components ‘‘(2) ENCOURAGING EMPLOYER PARTICIPA-
group of employers, a trade association, or a such as program costs to employers and to pro- TION.—
professional association that sponsors or partici- gram participants, completion and placement ‘‘(A) INDIVIDUALS WITH BARRIERS TO EMPLOY-
pates in a program under the national appren- rates, credential attainment, diversity in popu- MENT.—An eligible entity applying to target in-
ticeship system; lations served, the effectiveness of the program dividuals with barriers to employment for ap-
‘‘(F) a Governor; in increasing participant’s wages and benefits, prenticeship, youth apprenticeship, or pre-ap-
‘‘(G) a labor organization or joint labor-man- or services provided to employers and program prenticeship programs and carry out activities
agement organization; participants.
‘‘(H) community-based organizations that as- in accordance with subsection (a)(1)(B)(i) shall
‘‘(7) A description of potential program par- include as part of their application a description
sist program participants in accessing sup- ticipants and strategies to support the recruit-
portive services; or of—
ment, retention, and completion of such partici-
‘‘(I) a qualified intermediary; and ‘‘(i) specific strategies to target both individ-
pants, including nontraditional apprenticeship
‘‘(2) to the extent practicable, be part of an in- uals with barriers to employment and employers
populations and individuals with barriers to em-
dustry or sector partnership. for participation in the program; and
ployment, to the extent practicable.
‘‘(e) GENERAL APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS.— ‘‘(ii) partnerships with organizations that as-
‘‘(8) A description of strategies to recruit and
An eligible entity applying for a grant under sist program participants in accessing sup-
support employers involved in programs under
this section shall submit to the Administrator a portive services to support recruitment, reten-
the national apprenticeship system.
description of each of the following: tion, and completion of the program by program
‘‘(9) An assurance that the eligible entity
‘‘(1) Each purpose under subsection (a) for participants.
will—
which the applicant intends to use such grant. ‘‘(B) HIGH-NEED SOCIAL SERVICE-RELATED IN-
‘‘(2) Each entity with which the eligible entity ‘‘(A) provide information to the Adminis-
trator, as requested, for any such evaluations as DUSTRIES.—An eligible entity applying to offer
is partnered or engaged under subsection (d) pre-apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, or ap-
and the role of each such entity in carrying out the Administrator may carry out;
‘‘(B) make program performance outcome data prenticeship programs in high-need social serv-
activities funded under this subsection. ice-related industries, sectors, or occupations
‘‘(3) The ability of the applicant, directly or available (in accordance with applicable data
privacy laws, including section 444 of the Gen- and carry out activities in accordance with sub-
through partners—
‘‘(A) to enroll, instruct, advance, and grad- eral Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) section (a)(1)(B)(ii) shall include as part of their
uate program participants served by the grant and section 4 of this Act) to independent eval- application a description of wages and benefits
activities, and enable the participants to gain uators to enable the evaluators to prepare the offered to program participants.
employment after program completion; evaluations and research reports described in ‘‘(C) INDIVIDUALS CURRENTLY OR RECENTLY IN-
‘‘(B) to support (including by providing tech- section 203(a)(1); and CARCERATED.—An eligible entity applying to
nical assistance) program sponsors and employ- ‘‘(C) coordinate grant activities with a State target individuals currently or recently incar-
ers (especially small- and medium-sized busi- Apprenticeship Agency, if such agency exists in cerated and establish or carry out pre-appren-
nesses) in the creation of, recruitment for, and the State where the eligible entity is applying ticeship programs and apprenticeship programs
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
execution of programs under the national ap- for a grant or carrying out activities. in accordance with subsection (a)(1)(B)(iii) shall
prenticeship system; and ‘‘(f) ADDITIONAL APPLICATION REQUIRE- include as part of their application a description
‘‘(C) to provide opportunities to rural commu- MENTS.—The Administrator shall require an eli- of—
nities, as applicable. gible entity applying for a grant under this title ‘‘(i) a plan to assist the program participants
‘‘(4) A labor market analysis with respect to to include as part of their application in sub- in obtaining the documentation and work au-
the geographic area of service that dem- section (e) the following information, as appli- thorization necessary to participate in such pro-
onstrates— cable: gram;
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5963
‘‘(ii) partnerships with organizations that will secondary career and technical institution, as pansion, including creation of new or expansion
assist program participants in accessing activi- applicable; of existing industry or sector partnerships;
ties to improve financial literacy and supportive ‘‘(VI) a postsecondary educational institution; ‘‘(iii) preparing additional instructors or men-
services; or tors needed for program expansion;
‘‘(iii) how the assessments used to support the ‘‘(VII) a State higher education agency; and ‘‘(iv) building awareness of apprenticeship
placement of potential program participants into ‘‘(B) a commitment to establishing or expand- program opportunities for State or local work-
a program accurately reflect the participants’ ing the alignment of the related instruction to— force development, education, and economic de-
skills and competencies; ‘‘(i) the requirements for a high school di- velopment entities; and
‘‘(iv) a plan to provide information about re- ploma, which may be fulfilled through a dual or ‘‘(v) providing commensurate wages to wages
sources to program participants to address men- concurrent enrollment program; or for on-the-job training for program participants
tal health or substance abuse issues; ‘‘(ii) the requirements for a recognized post- during related instruction, as applicable.
‘‘(v) partnerships with organizations that sup- secondary credential, including the degree re- ‘‘(C) PRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS.—An eli-
port— quirements for an associate’s or bachelor’s de- gible entity that receives funds under section
‘‘(I) the transition from incarceration to re- gree. 201(a)(1)(A)(iii) shall use such funds to create a
entry, such as assistance with housing, trans- ‘‘SEC. 202. USES OF FUNDS. new pre-apprenticeship program or expand an
portation, and legal services; and existing pre-apprenticeship program, which may
‘‘(a) GENERAL ACTIVITIES.—An eligible entity
‘‘(II) successful completion of an apprentice- include—
applying for any grant activity under section
ship or pre-apprenticeship program; ‘‘(i) coordinating pre-apprenticeship program
201(a)(1)—
‘‘(vi) wages and benefits offered to program activities with an apprenticeship program in a
‘‘(1) shall use at least 5 percent of the grant
participants that are commensurate with wages high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry
funds to provide direct financial assistance to
for similar work in the State or local area, as al- sector or occupation, including the creation or
apprentices, pre-apprentices, or youth appren-
lowable; and expansion of work-based learning opportunities,
tices through emergency grants to support their
‘‘(vii) alignment and necessary supports to and articulation agreements for those who suc-
financial needs to enter, remain enrolled in, and
comply with and receive the benefits of the Fed- cessfully complete a pre-apprenticeship to earn
complete such program, such as support for the
eral Bonding Program and the Prison Industry academic credit and enroll in an apprenticeship
related costs of supplies and equipment, assess-
Enhancement Certification Program for employ- program;
ment or licensure fees, courses, transportation,
ers participating in apprenticeship programs. ‘‘(ii) creating, expanding, or integrating re-
child care, and housing; and
‘‘(D) SMALL- AND MEDIUM-SIZED EMPLOYERS.— lated instruction and work-based learning,
‘‘(2) may use funds for any of the following
An eligible entity applying to engage small- and which may include training in the workplace
activities:
medium-sized employers and carry out activities and supporting partnerships to create opportu-
‘‘(A) To establish or expand partnerships with
in accordance with subsection (a)(1)(B)(iv) shall nities for pre-apprentices to earn credit at a
organizations that provide program participants
include as part of their application a description postsecondary educational institution for skills
access to financial planning, mentoring, and
of demonstrated success in engaging small- and and competencies acquired during the pre-ap-
supportive services that are necessary to enable
medium-sized employers and the ability to re- prenticeship program;
an individual to participate in and complete a ‘‘(iii) providing participants with career explo-
cruit new employers to participate in related
program under the national apprenticeship sys- ration and career planning activities and with
partnerships or programs, such as small busi-
tem. exploration of postsecondary opportunities in-
nesses owned or controlled by women, minori-
‘‘(B) To conduct outreach and recruitment ac- cluding apprenticeship programs;
ties, or veterans.
‘‘(3) INTERMEDIARY GRANTS.— tivities, including assessments of potential par- ‘‘(iv) with respect to participants without a
‘‘(A) SUPPORTING NATIONAL INDUSTRY AND EQ- ticipants for, and enrollment of participants in, high school diploma or a generally recognized
UITY INTERMEDIARIES.—An eligible entity apply-
a program under the national apprenticeship equivalent, paying the costs affiliated with ac-
ing to carry out activities in accordance with system. quiring such equivalent, and the costs of any re-
subsection (a)(1)(C)(i) shall include as part of ‘‘(C) To conduct outreach, engagement, re- lated assessments of potential pre-apprentices or
their application a description of the ability of cruitment, and coordination of activities with active pre-apprentices, including those that
such entity to convene a diverse group of indus- employers, industry associations, labor and joint would verify the attainment of foundational
try specific stakeholders for the purposes of de- labor-management organizations, qualified knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in an
veloping or expanding programs, including em- intermediaries, education and training pro- apprenticeship program;
ployers, workforce development organizations, viders, State or local workforce agencies, poten- ‘‘(v) development or expansion of partnerships
industry associations, labor groups (including tial sponsors, community-based organizations, with organizations that assist program partici-
joint labor-management organizations), and communities with high numbers or percentages pants in accessing supportive services, which
education and training providers at a national of nontraditional apprenticeship populations, may include the 12-month period after the con-
level or with national reach. small- and medium-sized businesses, or rural clusion of a pre-apprenticeship program;
‘‘(B) SERVING PROGRAMS IN A LOCAL OR RE- communities to establish or expand industry or ‘‘(vi) providing commensurate wages to the
GIONAL SETTING.—An eligible entity applying to sector partnerships and opportunities under the linked apprenticeship program for pre-appren-
carry out activities in accordance with sub- national apprenticeship system. tices as they participate in and complete the
section (a)(1)(C)(ii) shall include as part of their ‘‘(D) To carry out grant requirements, includ- pre-apprenticeship program, as appropriate;
application a description of how such entity ing program evaluation and reporting require- ‘‘(vii) paying the cost of related instruction or
will— ments. assessment or licensure fees associated with the
‘‘(i) engage employers, especially small- and ‘‘(E) To conduct any activities as described in pre-apprenticeship program, as appropriate; or
medium-sized businesses, in the formation or on- the application that would advance the pur- ‘‘(viii) creating or expanding industry or sec-
going development of industry or sector partner- poses of the grant. tor partnerships to support the pre-apprentice-
ships and programs in the national apprentice- ‘‘(F) To support the transition to virtual or re- ship program and to provide additional opportu-
ship system; mote learning or training, as necessary and as nities to the pre-apprentices.
‘‘(ii) identify the industry or sector partner- approved by the registration agency. ‘‘(D) YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS.—An
ships that will be served, and demonstrate align- ‘‘(b) ADDITIONAL USES OF FUNDS.— eligible entity that receives funds under section
ment to high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand in- ‘‘(1) CREATION OR EXPANSION ACTIVITIES.— 201(a)(1)(A)(iv) shall use such funds to create a
dustry sectors or occupations; ‘‘(A) APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM CREATION.— new youth apprenticeship program or expand
‘‘(iii) leverage additional resources, including An eligible entity that receives funds under sec- an existing youth apprenticeship program,
funding provided by Federal and non-Federal tion 201(a)(1)(A)(i) shall use such funding to which may include—
resources; and create and implement an apprenticeship pro- ‘‘(i) paying for the costs associated with cur-
‘‘(iv) provide services to program sponsors and gram, which may include— riculum development and alignment of that cur-
program participants. ‘‘(i) creating and providing training and re- riculum with recognized postsecondary creden-
‘‘(4) EDUCATIONAL ALIGNMENT.—An eligible lated instruction based on employer engage- tials including industry-recognized credentials,
entity applying to carry out activities in accord- ment; high school graduation requirements, and re-
ance with subsection (a)(1)(D) shall include as ‘‘(ii) applying apprenticeship frameworks as lated instruction, including curriculum develop-
part of their application a description of— described in section 111(b)(5)(C) to the State or ment for dual or concurrent enrollment;
‘‘(A) a demonstration of a partnership with— local labor market and employer needs; or ‘‘(ii) providing employers, and to the extent
‘‘(i)(I) no less than three sponsors or employ- ‘‘(iii) aligning the new program with existing practicable, labor organizations and joint labor-
ers; or apprenticeship programs. management organizations, technical assistance
‘‘(II) an industry or sector partnership; and ‘‘(B) APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM EXPANSION.— to support the participation of youth appren-
‘‘(ii) at least 1 of the following— An eligible entity that receives funds under sec- tices under the age of 18;
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
‘‘(I) an educational service agency; tion 201(a)(1)(A)(ii) shall use such funds to ex- ‘‘(iii) integrating work-based and academic
‘‘(II) a high school; pand an existing apprenticeship program, which learning, which may include training in the
‘‘(III) a local educational agency; may include— workplace;
‘‘(IV) State educational agency; ‘‘(i) expanding and enhancing related instruc- ‘‘(iv) providing career exploration and career
‘‘(V) an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, tion; planning activities, including exploration of
Tribal educational agency, Tribally controlled ‘‘(ii) conducting outreach to and engagement postsecondary opportunities such as apprentice-
college or university, or Tribally controlled post- with employers for the purposes of program ex- ship programs;
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5964 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
‘‘(v) providing technical assistance to support the national apprenticeship system, which may ‘‘(iv) providing technical assistance on the
the participation of small- and medium-sized include— registration process for a sponsor of a youth ap-
businesses in youth apprenticeship programs; ‘‘(i) providing financial assistance to employ- prenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or apprentice-
‘‘(vi) developing or expanding partnerships ers to support costs related to the program, such ship program;
with organizations that assist program partici- as training incumbent workers as mentors or ‘‘(v) connecting businesses, labor organiza-
pants in accessing supportive services, which employees supervising the on-the-job learning; tions, or joint labor-management organizations
may include the 12-month period after the con- ‘‘(ii) supporting the cost of related instruction, with education and training providers to de-
clusion of such a youth apprenticeship program; assessment or licensure fees, or wages for pro- velop related instruction to complement the on-
or gram participants during related instruction; the-job learning portion of a youth apprentice-
‘‘(vii) providing teachers, career guidance and ‘‘(iii) providing technical assistance to small- ship, pre-apprenticeship, or apprenticeship pro-
academic counselors, school leaders, administra- and medium-sized businesses on the program gram;
tors, specialized instructional support personnel, registration process and leveraging other avail- ‘‘(vi) providing training to employees to serve
and paraprofessionals with professional devel- able funds to support carrying out programs as on-the-job trainers or mentors to program
opment opportunities to build an understanding supported by this grant; or participants; and
of apprenticeship opportunities available to stu- ‘‘(iv) establishing or expanding partnerships ‘‘(vii) providing career exposure, career plan-
dents, including experiential opportunities like to support program development or expansion, ning, and career awareness activities.
externships. including establishing or expanding industry or ‘‘(4) EDUCATIONAL ALIGNMENT GRANTS.—An el-
‘‘(2) INCENTIVE FUNDS.— sector partnerships to ensure inclusion of small- igible entity that receives funds under section
‘‘(A) BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT.—An eligible and medium-sized businesses. 201(a)(1)(D) shall use such funds to strengthen
entity that receives funds under section ‘‘(3) INTERMEDIARY GRANTS.— alignment between programs under the national
201(a)(1)(B)(i) shall use such funds to encourage ‘‘(A) NATIONAL INDUSTRY AND EQUITY INTER- apprenticeship system and education and train-
MEDIARIES.—An eligible entity that receives
employer participation in programs under the ing providers with secondary and postsecondary
national apprenticeship system that target indi- funds under section 201(a)(1)(C)(i) shall use education systems, including degree and creden-
viduals with barriers to employment, which may such funds to carry out activities at a national tial requirements, which may include—
include— and regional level to support the promotion and ‘‘(A) creating and aligning the related in-
‘‘(i) providing financial assistance to employ- expansion of industry or equity intermediaries, struction to requirements for a high school di-
ers to support costs related to the programs, which may include— ploma or an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, in-
‘‘(i) creating partnerships and leveraging col-
such as training incumbent workers for partici- cluding through—
laborations with employers, workforce develop- ‘‘(i) dual enrollment and credit articulation
pation as mentors or employees supervising the
ment organizations, industry associations, labor for youth apprenticeship programs;
on-the-job learning;
‘‘(ii) supporting the cost of related instruction, organizations, and education and training pro- ‘‘(ii) articulation agreements; or
assessment or licensure fees, or wages for pro- viders to help multiple employers make edu- ‘‘(iii) credit transfer agreements;
gram participants during related instruction; cation and training more affordable and accel- ‘‘(B) creating or expanding career pathways
and erate the expansion of programs under the na- aligned with pre-apprenticeship, youth appren-
‘‘(iii) establishing or expanding partnerships tional apprenticeship system nationwide; ticeship, or apprenticeship programs;
‘‘(ii) assisting employers in expanding pro- ‘‘(C) providing professional development for
with organizations that assist program partici-
grams, starting new programs, and working to- teachers, career guidance and academic coun-
pants in accessing supportive services to support
gether to create a pipeline of skilled workers; selors, school leaders, administrators, special-
recruitment, retention, and completion, includ-
‘‘(iii) increasing the participation and comple-
ing providing supplies and equipment necessary ized instructional support personnel, and para-
tion of nontraditional apprenticeship popu-
to begin a program under the national appren- professionals to build an understanding of op-
lations in programs under the national appren-
ticeship system. portunities in the national apprenticeship sys-
ticeship system, which may include—
‘‘(B) HIGH-NEED SOCIAL SERVICE-RELATED IN- tem available to students and to incorporate
‘‘(I) supporting the development, implementa-
DUSTRIES.—An eligible entity that receives funds such opportunities into academic content and
tion, and scaling of plans and practices; and
under section 201(a)(1)(B)(ii) shall use such ‘‘(II) identifying, developing, and dissemi- offerings;
funds to incentivize employer participation in nating effective program tools and strategies; ‘‘(D) offering prior learning assessments,
programs under the national apprenticeship sys- ‘‘(iv) providing national activities to increase which may include credit for prior learning to
tem in high need social service-related indus- awareness and access to programs, including grant advanced standing in a program under
tries, sectors, or occupations, which may in- strategic marketing and outreach, technology the national apprenticeship system and credit
clude— improvements, and innovations that make it towards an associate’s or bachelor’s degree;
‘‘(i) providing financial assistance to employ- easier for employers to start programs and for ‘‘(E) maintaining a connection between a pre-
ers to support costs related to the program, such individuals to connect with program opportuni- apprenticeship or youth apprenticeship program
as training incumbent workers as mentors, or ties; and an apprenticeship program; and
employees providing on-the-job training; ‘‘(v) developing and disseminating training or ‘‘(F) providing training for instructors or men-
‘‘(ii) supporting the cost of related instruction, related instruction associated with the program tors.
assessment or licensure fees, or wages for pro- or for curriculum improvements that align with ‘‘SEC. 203. GRANT EVALUATIONS.
gram participants during related instruction; the requirements of the program and learning ‘‘(a) RECIPIENT REPORTS.—Each recipient of a
‘‘(iii) establishing or expanding partnerships assessments; or grant under this section shall—
with organizations that assist program partici- ‘‘(vi) providing industry employees or poten- ‘‘(1) provide for an independent evaluation of
pants in accessing supportive services to support tial employees with a clear understanding of fu- the activities carried out under this title during
recruitment, retention, and completion, includ- ture career paths and the skills needed to suc- the grant period;
ing providing supplies and equipment necessary ceed, along with cost effective ways of acquiring ‘‘(2) provide for an annual report and for a
to begin a program under the national appren- those skills through youth apprenticeship, pre- final report at the conclusion of the grant pe-
ticeship system; or apprenticeship, or apprenticeship programs. riod, which include—
‘‘(iv) aligning such program with career path- ‘‘(B) LOCAL INTERMEDIARIES.—An eligible en- ‘‘(A) a description of how the funds received
ways and opportunities for advancement along tity that receives funds under section through the grant were used and how the uses
such career pathways. 201(a)(1)(C)(ii) may use such funds to carry out of funds aligned with the description in the ap-
‘‘(C) INDIVIDUALS IMPACTED BY THE JUSTICE activities at a local or regional level to support plication specified in section 201(e)(5)(C);
SYSTEM.—An eligible entity that receives funds the promotion and expansion of programs under ‘‘(B) in the case of an eligible entity that is re-
under section 201(a)(1)(B)(iii) shall use such the national apprenticeship system, which may quired to report data under section 131(b)(1), the
funds to incentivize employer participation in include— data collected under such section for the grant
programs under the national apprenticeship sys- ‘‘(i) providing training or related instruction period;
tem that target individuals impacted by the associated with the programs or for curriculum ‘‘(C) the total number of active program par-
criminal or juvenile justice system, which may improvements that align with the requirements ticipants served by each of the grant programs;
include— of the programs and learning assessments; ‘‘(D) the total number that obtained unsub-
‘‘(i) providing financial assistance to employ- ‘‘(ii) engaging with local education and train- sidized employment in a field related to the
ers to support costs related to the program, such ing providers to support related instruction apprenticeable occupation;
as training incumbent workers as mentors or aligned with the needs of high-skill, high-wage, ‘‘(E) the total number of program participants
employees supervising the on-the-job learning; or in-demand industry sectors and occupations, that completed the program in which they were
or and to the extent practicable, support the provi- enrolled;
‘‘(ii) supporting the cost of related instruction, sion of academic credit for related instruction; ‘‘(F) the average time to completion for each
assessment or licensure fees, or wages for pro- ‘‘(iii) providing services, including business program as compared to the program standards
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
gram participants during related instruction. engagement, classroom instruction, and develop- description under paragraphs (1) and (2) of sec-
‘‘(D) IN-DEMAND INDUSTRY SECTOR OR OCCUPA- ment of partnerships with organizations that as- tion 123(b);
TION GRANTS FOR SMALL- AND MEDIUM-SIZED sist program participants in accessing sup- ‘‘(G) the average cost per participant during
BUSINESSES.— An eligible entity that receives portive services (which may include the 12- the most recent program year and the 3 pre-
funds under section 201(a)(1)(B)(iv) shall use month period after the conclusion of the other ceding program years;
such funds to encourage participation of small- activities in the youth apprenticeship and pre- ‘‘(H) the percentage of participants who re-
and medium-sized businesses in programs under apprenticeship programs involved); ceived support services; and
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5965
‘‘(I) the disaggregation of performance data hour equally divided and controlled by istered apprenticeship opportunities to
described in subparagraphs (A) through (H)— the chair and ranking minority mem- benefit workers across other industries
‘‘(i) by the program type (apprenticeship, ber of the Committee on Education and and across the country.
youth apprenticeship, or pre-apprenticeship
Labor. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to
program) involved; and
‘‘(ii) by race, ethnicity, sex, age, and member- The gentleman from Virginia (Mr. support this legislation, and I reserve
ship in a population specified in section 3(24) of SCOTT) and the gentlewoman from the balance of my time.
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act North Carolina (Ms. FOXX) each will HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
(29 U.S.C. 3102(24)); and control 30 minutes. COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY,
‘‘(3) submit each report under paragraph (2)— The Chair recognizes the gentleman Washington, DC, November 5, 2020.
‘‘(A) to the registration agency; and from Virginia. Hon. ROBERT C. ‘‘BOBBY’’ SCOTT,
‘‘(B) to the Administrator. Chairman, Committee on Education and Labor,
GENERAL LEAVE
‘‘(b) ADMINISTRATOR EVALUATIONS.— House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, DEAR CHAIRMAN SCOTT: This is to advise
prepare— I ask unanimous consent that all Mem- you that the Committee on the Judiciary
‘‘(A) not later than 36 months after the date bers have 5 legislative days in which to has now had an opportunity to review the
of enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act revise and extend their remarks and in- provisions in H.R. 8294, the National Appren-
of 2020, an interim evaluation on the activities clude extraneous material on H.R. 8294, ticeship Act of 2020, that fall within our Rule
carried out under grants awarded under this X jurisdiction. I appreciate your consulting
the National Apprenticeship Act of
section; and with us on those provisions. The Judiciary
‘‘(B) not later than 60 months after the date
2020. Committee has no objection to your includ-
of enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ing them in the bill for consideration on the
of 2020, a final evaluation containing the results objection to the request of the gen- House floor, and to expedite that consider-
of the grant activities. tleman from Virginia? ation is willing to waive sequential referral,
‘‘(2) CONTENTS.—Such evaluations shall ad- There was no objection. with the understanding that we do not there-
dress, for the activities carried out under each Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, by waive any future jurisdictional claim
grant awarded under this section, the general I yield myself such time as I may con- over those provisions or their subject mat-
effectiveness of the activities in relation to their sume. ters.
cost, including the extent to which the activi- In the event a House-Senate conference on
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support
ties— this or similar legislation is convened, the
of H.R. 8294, the National Apprentice- Judiciary Committee reserves the right to
‘‘(A) improve the participation in, retention
in, and completion of youth apprenticeship, pre- ship Act of 2020. request an appropriate number of conferees
apprenticeship, and apprenticeship programs by Our economy continues to perma- to address any concerns with these or simi-
nontraditional apprenticeship populations; nently lose jobs due to the COVID–19 lar provisions that may arise in conference.
‘‘(B) to the extent feasible, increase the levels pandemic. In fact, it is estimated that Please place this letter into the Congres-
of total employment, of attainment of recognized 7 million of those who lose jobs during sional Record during consideration of the
postsecondary credentials, and of measurable the pandemic will not return to those measure on the House floor. Thank you for
skills, above the levels that would have existed the cooperative spirit in which you have
jobs.
in the absence of such activities; worked regarding this matter and others be-
Congress has a responsibility to help tween our committees.
‘‘(C) respond to the needs reflected in State,
regional, or local labor market data; workers not only find jobs, but also Sincerely,
‘‘(D) align with high-skill, high-wage, or in- prepare them for long-term employ- JERROLD NADLER,
demand industries or occupations; and ment. Expanding the registered appren- Chairman.
‘‘(E) reach a wide variety of industry sectors ticeship system, our most successful
and occupations; workforce development initiative, is HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
‘‘(3) REPORTS TO CONGRESS.—Not later than 60 the proven solution we need. COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND LABOR,
days after the completion of the interim evalua- Each year, hundreds of thousands of Washington, DC, November 5, 2020.
tion and the final evaluation described in this Hon. JERROLD NADLER,
workers count on registered appren-
section, the Administrator shall submit to the Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary,
Committee on Education and Labor of the ticeships to learn in-demand skills, Washington, DC.
House of Representatives and the Committee on earn wages that grow along with those DEAR CHAIRMAN NADLER: In reference to
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the skills, and receive nationally recog- your letter of November 5, 2020, I write to
Senate a report summarizing the findings of the nized credentials that lead to reward- confirm our mutual understanding regarding
interim evaluations and a report summarizing ing careers. Registered apprenticeships H.R. 8294, the ‘‘National Apprenticeship Act
the final evaluations. are also so successful that 94 percent of of 2020.’’
‘‘(4) PUBLIC ACCESS.—The Administrator shall apprentices are employed upon comple- I appreciate the Committee on the Judi-
make the interim and final reports available on ciary’s waiver of consideration of H.R. 8294
tion and earn an average starting wage as specified in your letter. I acknowledge
a publicly accessible website not later than 60
days after the completion of the interim report of more than $70,000 a year. that the waiver was granted only to expedite
and the final report. Despite the growing demand for ap- floor consideration of H.R. 8294 and does not
‘‘SEC. 204. GRANT APPROPRIATIONS. prenticeship opportunities, Congress in any way waive or diminish the Committee
‘‘There are authorized to be appropriated to has not reauthorized the National Ap- on the Judiciary’s jurisdictional interests
carry out this title: prenticeship Act since it was first over this or similar legislation.
‘‘(1) $400,000,000 for fiscal year 2021; passed in 1937. I would be pleased to include our exchange
‘‘(2) $500,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; The legislation before us will invest of letters on this matter in the committee
‘‘(3) $600,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; report for H.R. 8294 and in the Congressional
$3.5 billion in our apprenticeship sys-
‘‘(4) $700,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; and Record during floor consideration of the bill
tem; ensures consistency and quality to memorialize our joint understanding.
‘‘(5) $800,000,000 for fiscal year 2025.’’.
across programs; increases opportuni- Again, thank you for your assistance with
SEC. 4. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) AMERICAN COMPETITIVENESS AND WORK-
ties for diverse groups of workers who this matter.
FORCE IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1998.—Section
have not traditionally been included; Very truly yours,
414(c) of the American Competitiveness and and expands registered apprenticeships ROBERT C. ‘‘BOBBY’’ SCOTT,
Workforce Improvement Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. in emerging sectors, such as Chairman.
2916a) is repealed. healthcare, finance, and technology. Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
(b) IMMIGRATION AND NATIONALITY ACT.—Sec- This investment alone would create Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
tion 286(s)(2) of the Immigration and Nation- approximately 1 million apprentice- may consume.
ality Act (8 U.S.C. 1356(s)(2)) is amended— ships, pre-apprenticeships, and youth Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposi-
(1) in the heading, by striking ‘‘FOR JOB
apprenticeships, and it would yield tion to H.R. 8294, which kills the abil-
TRAINING’’ and inserting ‘‘FOR PROGRAMS UNDER
THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM’’; and
roughly $10.6 billion in benefits to tax- ity for businesses and industry to fill
(2) by striking ‘‘for demonstration programs payers through higher tax revenues in-demand jobs.
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
and projects described in section 414(c) of the and decreased spending on social safety Republicans and Democrats agree
American Competitiveness and Workforce Im- net programs. that apprenticeships play a critical
provement Act of 1998’’ and inserting ‘‘to carry Construction trades and their indus- role in addressing our Nation’s work-
out title II of the National Apprenticeship Act’’. try partners have long proven that the force needs and preparing workers for
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, registered apprenticeship model works. meaningful, well-paying careers; how-
as amended, shall be debatable for 1 It is long past time that we expand reg- ever, the narrow-minded approach
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.001 H19NOPT1
H5966 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
taken by Democrats in H.R. 8294 dou- the Department of Labor, cautioned ting the Federal Government dictate
bles down on a system that limits ap- that ‘‘if enacted, this bill would inhibit where their dollars must go.
prenticeship opportunities. the ability of the Department to fulfill This amendment also makes it easier
Many who know me here in Congress its mission in providing more Ameri- for more programs, and therefore, more
know that I have advocated for these cans access to apprenticeships.’’ Mr. apprentices to access the registered ap-
job-creating programs all my career. Pallasch went on to warn that H.R. prenticeship system by removing the
Nothing can prepare a student quite 8294 puts job-filling programs in jeop- requirement setting an uneven playing
like on-the-job experience, and appren- ardy due to an ‘‘excessive number of re- field between union and nonunion pro-
ticeships are a tried-and-true method quirements that are overly prescrip- gram sponsors for the ratios of appren-
of preparing students to enter the tive.’’ tices to instructors. This particular
workforce with the skills they need to Still, House Democrats want to make provision is just another scheme by
succeed. registered apprenticeships the only Democrats to force workers into
Unfortunately, the potential for a possible model under the National Ap- unions. Unfortunately, this common-
strong bipartisan effort to expand be- prenticeship Act. This approach is sense, forward-looking amendment was
yond the existing registered appren- flawed. The numbers speak for them- struck down on a party line vote by
ticeship model to reach more workers selves. In fiscal year 2019, 252,000 indi- committee Democrats.
and industries has been eclipsed by the viduals entered apprenticeships, and Thankfully, the full House will have
Democrats’ typical partisan games. only 81,000 graduated from the reg- the opportunity to vote on this amend-
While our economy continues to re- istered system. ment during floor consideration, and I
cover from COVID–19, workers and job It is obvious that we can and should hope Democrats will take this oppor-
creators need the flexibility to inno- do better, but Democrats are turning a tunity to adopt legislation that will ac-
vate. Republicans understand that em- blind eye to needed improvements that tually increase work-based learning op-
ployers, not Washington bureaucrats, will allow more Americans to get back portunities.
know best what skills their employees to work and achieve the American At a time when workers and job cre-
require to excel in the workplace. Dream. ators are working hard to overcome
The Trump administration also rec- The bill before us will force job cre- the challenges presented by COVID–19,
ognizes the importance of employer-led ators to deal with overly prescriptive we shouldn’t close potential pathways
innovation in the apprenticeship space requirements, additional bureaucracy, to work. Apprenticeships can help put
and has taken important steps to ex- and time-consuming paperwork. This more Americans to work as we recover
pand and innovate work-based learning stifling environment has discouraged from the pandemic, but only if job cre-
programs. More than 430 companies new and small businesses from partici- ators are given the flexibility to inno-
and organizations have signed the pating in the registered apprenticeship vate and develop high quality earn-
President’s pledge to American work- system for years now. and-learn programs. And the Democrat
ers, committing to providing more The majority claims that this legis- bill fails on that front.
than 16 million new education and on- lation will create 1 million new appren- I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote, and I reserve the
the-job learning opportunities for ticeship programs simply by virtue of balance of my time.
American students and workers. throwing more money at the registered Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
Additionally, the Department of system without solving the underlying I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
Labor is moving forward with Indus- problems that prevent employers from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), the House ma-
try-Recognized Apprenticeship Pro- participating or allowing for alter- jority leader.
grams to give employers the flexibility native models. It seems the new defini- Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank
to shape apprenticeship programs that tion of insanity is the Federal Govern- my friend, the chairman of the Edu-
will attract workers and prepare them ment spending more taxpayer dollars cation and Labor Committee, Mr.
for the 21st century. on decades-old programs and expecting BOBBY SCOTT, for yielding. He has done
We have seen real success stories un- different results. such an extraordinary job through the
fold when we let employers innovate. An all-of-the-above approach is the years in the minority and in the major-
Opportunity America and the Brook- best way to connect more workers with ity watching out for workers and cre-
ings Institution recently published a apprenticeship opportunities so they ating jobs and security for our work-
study on the Federation for Advanced can secure meaningful, well-paying ca- ers.
Manufacturing Education, or FAME, reers. That is why Republicans on the I rise in strong support of this legis-
an organization that connects edu- Education and Labor Committee intro- lation.
cators, employers, and students with duced a commonsense amendment dur- Two weeks ago, Mr. Speaker, we saw
hands-on learning to strengthen the ing the bill’s markup to unleash the deep divisions within our country, divi-
manufacturing industry. full potential of apprenticeships and sions that we must heal.
The study found Kentucky FAME help fill in-demand jobs. Part of that division, I believe, comes
graduates, when compared to their Among other provisions, it would from a broad lack of faith in govern-
non-FAME counterparts, earned up to allow the Department of Labor the ment to deliver on what the American
63 percent more 1 year after gradua- flexibility to pursue other forms of people need to get ahead in our econ-
tion. Five years after, FAME graduates work-based learning under the Na- omy.
earned $98,000, compared to $52,783 for tional Apprenticeship Act, including in Americans, in my view, want their
non-FAME graduates. response to COVID–19. It would reduce elected officials to focus on reaching
This study represents not only a suc- the paperwork burden on States by al- consensus on broadly popular initia-
cess story in Kentucky, but it uncovers lowing them to submit State plans tives that expand opportunity and con-
a larger narrative. There is untapped under the preexisting framework of the nect people with good careers.
potential in the apprenticeship space Workforce Innovation and Opportunity This legislation, Mr. Speaker, that
waiting to be unleashed because the ex- Act rather than forcing them to estab- we are considering today, falls within
isting registered model doesn’t meet lish a duplicative application process. the scope of the Make It In America
the need of many companies right now. plan that I have been proud to lead
Instead of giving workers and em- b 1515 since 2010.
ployers more autonomy to create pro- Rarely is more government interven- That plan seeks to make our workers
grams that are responsive to workforce tion the solution, which is why the and businesses more competitive by
needs, the Democrats’ bill clings to an amendment would strike provisions in legislating in the three key areas of
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
80-year-old system that shuts the door H.R. 8294 that would add to the existing education and skills training, infra-
on flexibility and innovation and en- bureaucracy in the form of advisory structure, and entrepreneurship. It is
shrines union giveaways. committees and interagency agree- based on bipartisan ideas that most
In a letter to Committee Repub- ments. The amendment also provides Americans support.
licans, John Pallasch, Assistant Sec- States with more discretion over how One of those ideas is reauthorizing
retary for Employment and Training at they spend their money, instead of let- enhancing the National Apprenticeship
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.036 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5967
Act for the 21st century in order to I want to thank Representative With that being said, we must ac-
help more of our people reach for the SUSAN DAVIS of California for her lead- knowledge that the registered appren-
opportunities that enable them to ership over the years and for spon- ticeship system created during the
make it in America. soring this bill. She has been a cham- Great Depression will never be suitable
This bill would have been, Mr. Speak- pion for workers and apprenticeship op- by itself for a modern workforce.
er, and should have been, bipartisan, portunities for decades. She will be And on this point, this bill ignores
were it not for the Trump administra- leaving the Congress, and she will be the needs of our workers and our econ-
tion’s insistence on including sorely missed. She will be leaving vol- omy now in the 21st century.
unaccredited and unproven apprentice- untarily, I may add. But she will be The Trump administration has taken
ship programs that do not have ade- sorely missed, because, not only in the tremendous steps to grow the number
quate worker protections or quality civilian sector but on the defense side, of high quality apprenticeships and
standards. she has looked at personnel and how to modernize work-based learning pro-
That is a shame. And I hope we can enhance work opportunities, worker grams, especially through the Depart-
revisit this effort and make it truly bi- skills, and their success. ment of Labor’s Industry-Recognized
partisan once President-elect Biden has I also thank Chairman SCOTT of the Apprenticeship Programs, or IRAPS.
taken office. Education and Labor Committee for This program is aimed to help foster
At a moment when our economy is in his work moving this bill through com- continued innovation that recognizes
crisis as a result of the COVID–19 pan- mittee. the dignity of all work and provides an-
demic, many Americans are out of I also want to thank the ranking other tool for apprentices to move into
work and looking for new ways to get member because I believe that, in fact, meaningful work in our rapidly evolv-
back into the workforce. what she said is she is interested in ap- ing economy.
They recognize that this moment Mr. Speaker, there is room for an all-
prenticeship programs, and I am hope-
presents an opportunity to gain new of-the-above approach that both im-
ful that Mr. SCOTT and Ms. FOXX and
skills and move up in their careers, as proves the registered system while also
others on both sides of the aisle con-
Mr. SCOTT has pointed out. allowing for future innovation and
That is why, Mr. Speaker, congres- tinue to work to expand apprenticeship
opportunities. We do not want to con- other earn-and-learn models.
sional support for apprenticeship pro-
strict opportunities; we want to expand However, this legislation does not
grams is so important.
According to the Labor Department, them. change the current status quo.
94 percent of participants in registered In spite of the Trump Administra- For that reason, I must urge my col-
apprenticeships are employed upon tion’s attempts to sabotage it, I hope leagues to oppose this bill.
completion with an average salary of this legislation will pass with the kind We must craft a bipartisan bill that
$70,000. of strong bipartisan support it de- encourages employers to innovate and
This bill would permanently author- serves. develop apprenticeship programs that
ize the Labor Department’s office of I urge all my colleagues to join me in meet the needs of the current work-
apprenticeship and direct it to promote voting for a bill that will give all of our place.
new partnerships among labor, indus- people faith that Washington is united Employers are struggling enough
try, and educational institutions to in our determination to help them get with the challenges presented by
create new apprenticeship tracks. through this crisis and build back bet- COVID–19. The last thing they need is
It will also codify standards, Mr. ter in the future. additional red tape and tenuous re-
Speaker, for registered apprentice- Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. quirements.
ships, youth apprenticeships, and Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
preapprenticeship programs. tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMP- I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman
This legislation would invest more SON). from California (Mrs. DAVIS), chair of
than $3 billion in the National Appren- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. the Subcommittee on Higher Edu-
ticeship System, an investment that Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished cation and Workforce Investment and
will pay off geometrically to our coun- Republican leader of our Education and the lead sponsor of the legislation we
try and to our families and to our Labor Committee for yielding and for are considering today.
workers. That will be spent over the her service. Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speak-
next 5 years in order to create nearly Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposi- er, I thank Chairman SCOTT for yield-
one million additional apprenticeship tion to H.R. 8294, the National Appren- ing and for being a strong partner over
opportunities by 2025. ticeship Act of 2020. the years in recognizing the impor-
For those worried about the cost of Originally passed in 1937, the Na- tance of investing in America’s work-
this legislation, here is another figure tional Apprenticeship Act established force development.
to consider: The $10.6 billion in in- the registered apprenticeship system While we look to the robust appren-
creased tax revenues and decreased that we have come to know. ticeship systems of Switzerland, the
spending on public assistance programs For more than 80 years, this system U.K. and other countries, we know that
and unemployment insurance that will has provided many Americans with op- the United States has the potential to
be saved. Let me reiterate that. $10.6 portunities to learn tangible skills have our own unique, highly effective
billion in increased tax revenue as a re- they need for high-wage, high-skill, environment for a mentor-led work-
sult of the success of the apprentice- and in-demand jobs that will lead to force. And today we can put resources
ship program. fulfilling careers. behind our need to match employers
At the same time, this bill includes Most recently, we have seen interest addressing community needs with our
measures to promote greater diversity for apprenticeships surge as more em- constituents who seek skills and edu-
among those accessing apprenticeship ployees and small businesses are recog- cation.
programs. This is critical at a moment nizing the critical role that they play At a time when many workers have
when the pandemic has led women’s in the development of a skilled work- been forced to look for new pathways
workforce participation to fall to a force. to financial stability, we have a re-
level unseen since 1988. This law is in desperate need of re- sponsibility as Members of Congress to
Right now, only 10 percent of appren- forms that will both strengthen and ex- expand employment opportunities that
ticeships are held by women. pand this traditional system while em- provide meaningful work and family-
By promoting greater diversity of ac- powering employers and others to pur- supporting wages.
cess, we can increase that percentage sue work-based learning innovation. The legislation under consideration
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
dramatically and help millions of As co-chair of the bipartisan Career today will do just that.
women jump-start their return to the and Technical Education Caucus, I We have had many conversations in
workforce while helping them get have always supported, and will con- our Education and Labor Committee
ahead in their careers. Good for them, tinue to support, legislation that pro- about providing high quality edu-
good for their families, good for Amer- motes skills-based education for a 21st cational pathways, and I appreciate the
ica. century economy. work of the ranking member on that
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.037 H19NOPT1
H5968 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
regard. And we have spent much time apprenticeship programs across the country. sources will not need to change their
together talking about this issue. Our employees are the foundation of our programs.
But I want to go on to pinpoint those company and young people across the coun- We are simply strengthening the
try are the future of our workforce. Finding
issues that have to be included. The known registered apprenticeship sys-
a way to both create opportunity and by
educational pathways that we know do doing so, reach the best talent, is a challenge tem that is in place today with more
not require a 4-year college degree that we can all embrace. We are very proud that clearly established programs. Families
allow people to earn while they learn. the apprentice model we created in Chicago can sit down at the kitchen table, dis-
Makes sense. And provide nationally in 2017 with two employers and 25 appren- cuss their futures, and look to the reju-
portable and recognized credentials. tices has grown to 43 employers and over 750 venated registered apprenticeship sys-
We have tirelessly worked for months apprentices—it proves that talent plus op- tem as one of many high-quality path-
with our Republican colleagues to portunity equals success. ways to post-secondary education.
Because of the success of the Chicago Ap-
make sure this legislation achieves Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote.
prentice Network and the positive impact
these goals. this talent strategy has had for our firm,
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
This past March, just before the Aon announced yesterday that we will be ex- Speaker, I want to compliment the
world changed as we know it, we made panding our Apprenticeship commitment to gentlewoman from California (Con-
public a draft of this legislation that seven cities across the United States sup- gresswoman DAVIS) for her work on
was open for feedback. We were able to ported by an investment of $30 million over this bill and her career in Congress. We
incorporate comments from over 20 the next five years. all respect her. And I earnestly wish we
groups and stakeholders. And this leg- Aon will initiate the Apprenticeship pro- could have come up with a bipartisan
gram expansion next year in the metropoli-
islation also incorporated feedback bill.
tan areas of Chicago, Houston, Minneapolis,
from the bipartisan hearings and round New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and
Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the
tables we had with employers and ap- Washington, D.C. Along with this expansion, gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr.
prenticeship stakeholders. Aon will lead the development of a nation- SMUCKER).
One of the legislation’s primary goals wide network of employers to create 10,000 Mr. SMUCKER. Mr. Speaker, I thank
is to ensure that people across the new apprenticeships across the United States the ranking member for yielding. And I
country are speaking the same lan- by 2030. agree. I wish we could have come here
guage regarding apprenticeships. This development of apprenticeships in the with a bill that we all can agree upon.
It is designed to demonstrate that office and corporate sector allows a model Unfortunately, instead, I have to say I
that has been successful in the trades—earn-
apprenticeships are an equal, high- ing while you learn—to expand to fast grow-
oppose the bill that we are discussing
quality, post-secondary, prestigious al- ing areas of the economy. And like other today.
ternative to the traditional 2- or 4-year successful apprenticeship programs, ours are This is particularly important be-
college degrees. and will continue to be, registered with the cause, over the past few months, we see
Of great interest, this bill codifies Department of Labor to ensure quality of the impact that the pandemic has had
youth apprenticeships as opportunities both training and work. on our workforce. All of us standing
that prepare high school students for We live in a world of rapid change and in- here today are fortunate to be in posi-
post-secondary education, much like creased volatility in the economy and the tions where we can learn to do our jobs
job market. In building the workforce of the
advanced placement classes. future, the biggest obstacle to success at
differently. We can do them differently
We have already seen how a small in- scale is not in finding a qualified supply of whether it is remotely, or we can im-
vestment from the Federal Govern- talent, it is incenting employers to create plement new safety measures, or some
ment results in enormous returns. In the demand for quality, career track jobs combination of the two.
2017, the insurance company Aon start- that look beyond traditional hiring prac- But there are millions of Americans
ed their business in Chicago with only tices. By creating a working model that has who don’t get that opportunity to work
two employees and 25 apprentices. grown across industries, we can show others remotely. Instead, they have lost their
Now, they have over 50 employees and the path to success in creating apprentice jobs.
programs in the corporate sector.
over 750 apprentices all across the Aon’s apprenticeship program has brought
We all know that the workforce will
country. In fact, they have announced so many talented colleagues to our firm and not look the same once this public
the expansion of their Chicago appren- we know it has tremendous potential to cre- health emergency is over. So it is more
ticeship network to cities and employ- ate similar opportunities and professional imperative than ever that we take ac-
ers across the country who are fol- networks for both apprentices and partici- tions to help job-displaced individuals
lowing their lead in looking at reg- pating employers across the United States. learn new skill sets to be competitive
istered apprenticeship credentials as We thank you again for your efforts and and to fit these new jobs that will be
stand ready to assist in the expansion of our
alternatives to a 4-year degree. available.
model to communities across the United
b 1530 States as we create the workforce of the fu-
Expanding apprenticeships is one
ture. tool to help accomplish that goal. The
But here is the key. As the CEO of bill before us today presented a real op-
Best,
AON himself stated: ‘‘The biggest ob- GREG CASE. portunity for Congress to make smart
stacle to success at scale is not in find- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The reforms to our apprenticeship system
ing a qualified supply of talent, it is time of the gentlewoman has expired. when it is needed most, but unfortu-
incenting employers to create the de- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, nately, H.R. 8294 comes up short in
mand for quality, career-track jobs I yield an additional 1 minute to the achieving this.
that look beyond traditional hiring gentlewoman. Now, I will say as well that through-
practices,’’ which is precisely what this Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speak- out my past 2 years serving as the
bill sets out to do. er, I thank Mr. SCOTT for yielding me ranking member of the Subcommittee
Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD the additional time. on Higher Education and Workforce In-
a letter from AON’s CEO Greg Case We all talk a good game in wanting vestment, I have enjoyed working
highlighting their and other employ- to build this economy and build oppor- alongside Chairwoman DAVIS.
ers’ excitement about the expansion of tunities for our constituents who do As we looked at other models, we
the registered apprenticeship system not want to pursue a 4-year degree, but studied both U.S. models and inter-
and demonstrating how many firms we haven’t put financial muscle and national models of apprenticeship as
have not only not been hindered by the know-how behind creating these valued well. We held hearings and received
current registered system, but rather credentials that employees seek. testimony from officials from coun-
are enormous beneficiaries of it. In closing, I want to make one point, tries like Switzerland, Australia, Ger-
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
AON, that this legislation only codifies the many, and Belgium.
Chicago, IL, November 16, 2020.
standards for programs that have reg- What struck us most was that each of
Hon. ROBERT C. ‘‘BOBBY’’ SCOTT,
Chairman, House Committee on Education and istered for access to the credentials those nations has apprenticeships in
Labor, Washington, DC. and funding provided for in this bill. nearly every single industry, not just a
DEAR CHAIRMAN SCOTT: Thank you for your Unregistered workforce programs that few like we have here in the U.S. From
leadership and support in the effort to grow do not want access to this bill’s re- banking to positions in the healthcare
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.038 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5969
industry, these nations have managed ship Access for All Act. This language But I am glad the bill is coming this
to find a structure, a system that can will advance programs that promote far. It provides us all an opportunity to
respond to labor market demands while the recruitment, employment, and re- go back home in our districts and bring
preparing the next generation with val- tention of people of color, individuals it up to young people and tell them
uable skill sets. with disabilities, and individuals facing about the benefits of apprenticeships
While we do agree in a bipartisan barriers to employment, especially in and that you are missing something
fashion that these are models that we high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand big-time if you don’t take advantage of
could learn from as we reauthorize our sectors and occupations. After all, we it.
own system, my colleagues on the must be sure that everyone has access Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
other side of the aisle have chosen to to opportunity. I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman
steamroll over proposals for flexibility The SPEAKER pro tempore. The from New Jersey (Mr. NORCROSS), a
and double down on a registered sys- time of the gentlewoman has expired. graduate of a registered apprenticeship
tem that places much of the decision- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, program himself and a member of the
making authority into the hands of I yield an additional 30 seconds to the Committee on Education and Labor.
labor unions. gentlewoman. Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise
The majority leader was correct Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, to my col- today to talk about the importance of
when he said just a little while ago on leagues, especially those on the other the National Apprenticeship Reauthor-
the floor that that is the fundamental side of the aisle, I want to be clear ization Act.
difference of the two sides on this bill. about what we are voting to do here. Personally, Mr. Speaker, I want to
This bill as written strips the Depart- We are voting to ensure our work- say thank you to SUSAN DAVIS and, cer-
ment of Labor’s authority to pursue force gets the investment it needs and tainly, Chairman SCOTT for putting
more flexible partnerships for work- the support it deserves. We are voting this bill up. I am thankful that so
to show the American people that they many of the priorities are included in
based learning models. This legislation
are seen, that they are heard, and that this, ones that I have spoken so highly
would prevent the Department from
we care deeply about providing them of.
moving forward with the Industry-Rec-
pathways to a stable future. And we Last week was National Apprentice-
ognized Apprenticeship Programs, or
are voting to uphold Congress’ commit- ship Week. As many may know, reg-
IRAPs.
ment and obligation to serve every istered apprenticeship programs have
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
American. literally shaped my life. While my
time of the gentleman has expired. Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. three brothers went to college, I went
Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- to the other 4-year school. I did an
Speaker, I yield an additional 30 sec- tleman from Wisconsin (Mr.
onds to the gentleman. IBEW apprenticeship program to be-
GROTHMAN). come an electrician.
Mr. SMUCKER. Mr. Speaker, even Mr. GROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I
though IRAPs are in the early stages, ‘‘Learn while you earn’’ was my life.
would like to, with the other people, I understood that, that you could take
we are already seeing many new stake- say it was very enjoyable working with
holders getting involved. The program the knowledge that you learn at night
Congresswoman DAVIS. I wish she at school in the books and take it right
is showing tremendous promise, and we would have given me a chance before
are finally starting to grow apprentice- to the job. That is the heart of what an
she made a decision to try to convince apprenticeship program is.
ship programs in industries that have her to stay here because we are going I supported my young family. I was
never used them before. to miss her. able to continue that. I literally went
We believe in allowing businesses to Apprenticeships are very important. from the construction site to Congress.
make the decisions they believe are We have a good apprenticeship pro- Education is not one-size-fits-all. We
best for their employees to learn the gram in Wisconsin. We are told that, hear that. For many, they don’t know
skills that they need. That is the fun- right now, people who complete both if they want to go to college, build the
damental difference in the approach to the work and classroom requirements college, or defend the college. We need
apprenticeship. of the apprenticeship program have a all of those, and that is how important
I will be offering an amendment that median income of $80,000. That shows it is.
will allow the law to reach the full po- the importance of having a bill like The registered apprenticeship system
tential of apprenticeships to help fill this brought to the floor. And I will is the most successful Federal work-
in-demand jobs by addressing some of tell you, it is not only an $80,000 salary force training program in the history
these issues. but, I am sure, a much lower debt load of the United States. Ninety-four per-
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, than many people who use a 4-year de- cent of those people will have a job,
I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman gree. when they complete their apprentice-
from North Carolina (Ms. ADAMS), the I think it is important for everybody ship, with a starting wage average of
chair of the Subcommittee on Work- in this Chamber to continue to empha- $70,000. It works.
force Protections. size to young people the pathway to a But it is more than just a paycheck.
Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, I thank career through apprenticeships, which It is about the dignity of a job, the re-
the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. probably results in more job security, spect that comes with that.
SCOTT), our distinguished Education more income, and less debt than other In our country, there are so many
and Labor Committee chair, as well as things. ways that you can succeed. Whether
the Subcommittee on Higher Edu- It is with great regret I am going to you are an apprentice in the shipyard,
cation and Workforce Investment vote against this bill today. a medical tech, a Ph.D. from Harvard,
chair, Mrs. DAVIS, for this bill and for I do believe that there is such a high they are all the same in terms of value
all of their support. demand for what I call skills-based to this great country. We need all of
I rise today in strong support of the education that it is important we open them.
National Apprenticeship Reauthoriza- up alternative avenues to apprentice- The National Apprenticeship Act in-
tion Act. By creating 1 million new ap- ships. vests $3.5 billion in a proven, successful
prenticeship opportunities and yielding We have talked today about a need to system that has created over 1 million
over $10 billion in net benefits, this leg- recognize the apprenticeship programs. new opportunities. But how important
islation is a lifeline for our economy That is certainly one way. It is unfor- the standards are, particularly in the
and for countless Americans, including tunate that didn’t make it in this bill. world that I come from.
those in my home State of North Caro- I know a lot of effort was made to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
lina. make this a bipartisan bill, and maybe time of the gentleman has expired.
With a proven track record of suc- we can come back in the appropria- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
cess, we know this is a safe and smart tions process or something and some- I yield an additional 30 seconds to the
investment. how make a few tweaks in there to gentleman.
I am also pleased that this legisla- make it something that would be more Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, why
tion includes my bill, the Apprentice- bipartisan. standards are so important is because
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.041 H19NOPT1
H5970 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
when storms hit our coast, elec- by codifying regulations that recognize col- undo the Department of Labor’s indus-
tricians, linemen, come from around lective bargaining agreements contain ex- try-recognized apprenticeship pro-
the country to put that system back ceptionally strong apprentice-to- grams created under President Trump.
journeyworker ratios that not only ensure
together. Could you imagine if they all This program provides companies an
on-going, targeted instruction, but also the
had their own program? level of supervision apprentices need to guar- alternative avenue to train skilled
This is why standards count, particu- antee their safety. workers and develop apprenticeship
larly in the building trades, because H.R. 8294 also makes some very important programs for their specific industry
when there is not work in your home- changes to the Registered Apprenticeship needs.
town, you go to work in another. We program that NABTU has long fought for. This year has already been tough on
all work together, and that is why this For the first time, there will be concrete our employers with COVID–19, dev-
is so important. standards associated with pre-apprenticeship astating businesses across the country,
Since 1937, we haven’t updated it. But programs, which have exponentially grown and the last thing we need is to impose
just because it is old doesn’t mean it is over the last several years as we continue to
work with our industry partners to increase
more bureaucratic red tape and re-
not good. quirements.
the diversity of apprenticeship candidates by
It is handed down through genera- recruiting women, people of color and vet- I am disappointed that my Democrat
tions. This is how we have trained and erans. No longer can unscrupulous contrac- colleagues are pushing a plan that
given the next generation a proven, tors prop up pre-apprenticeship programs would put these job-filling programs in
successful model. without having clear and defined pathways jeopardy and prevent more workers
Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD into a Registered Apprenticeship program. from accessing these opportunities.
a letter from the North America’s Furthermore, H.R. 8294 codifies the Office I believe that this is a space for bi-
Building Trades Unions that talks of Apprenticeship, with established funding partisanship, and I urge my colleagues
about the importance of what we are streams to ensure the necessary oversight of
to oppose this flawed approach and
the program and expand technical assistance
talking about today. work with us to encourage innovation
that will grow Registered Apprenticeship op-
NORTH AMERICA’S portunities in new sectors. This bill and flexibility.
BUILDING TRADES UNIONS, strengthens the National Advisory Com- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
Washington, DC, November 18, 2020. mittee on Apprenticeship, ensuring that could you advise us how much time is
Hon. NANCY PELOSI, practitioners of Registered Apprenticeship, remaining on both sides.
Speaker, House of Representatives, both industry and labor, are given a voice to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen-
Washington, DC. offer recommendations to further strengthen tleman from Virginia has 161⁄2 minutes
Hon. KEVIN MCCARTHY, the program.
Republican Leader, remaining. The gentlewoman from
While there are other avenues one may
House of Representatives, Washington, DC. North Carolina has 121⁄2 minutes re-
take to be trained in the construction crafts,
DEAR SPEAKER PELOSI AND LEADER MCCAR- for generations, the safest, most highly- maining.
THY: On behalf of the over 3 million skilled
skilled and productive construction craft Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
craft professionals that comprise North workers in the world have received their I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman
America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU), training through the Registered Apprentice- from Connecticut (Mrs. HAYES), a
I write in support of H.R. 8294, the National ship system. H.R. 8294, the National Appren- member of the Committee on Edu-
Apprenticeship Act of 2020. ticeship Act of 2020, will ensure the Reg-
I first would like to commend the work of cation and Labor.
istered Apprenticeship system not only re- Mrs. HAYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise
the House Committee on Education and
mains the gold standard in workforce train- today in support of the National Ap-
Labor for their diligent efforts to maintain
ing in the construction industry, but that it prenticeship Act of 2020.
the integrity of the Registered Apprentice-
is accessible for all industries that seek a My State of Connecticut was still re-
ship system and for their willingness to en-
productive and highly-skilled workforce. I
gage us on this bill, which reauthorizes the
urge swift passage of this bill, and look for-
covering from the 2008 recession, and
foundational law on which our apprentice- now COVID–19 has again thrown it into
ward to working with you to strengthen eco-
ship programs are built. In the eighty-three dire economic straits.
nomic opportunities in every community,
years since the Registered Apprenticeship With businesses shuttered from pro-
both large and small, across our great na-
system was created, our nation, the econ- longed economic pause, nearly 200,000
tion.
omy, our industry and technology have dras-
tically changed. What has not changed is the
Sincerely, Connecticut residents are now forced
SEAN MCGARVEY, into unemployment. If we say we agree
need to forever protect and enshrine the
President. on this, then now is the time to create
rights of those individuals who enter an ap-
prenticeship program, and H.R. 8294 con- Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I urge pathways to high-wage employment
tinues to protect the safety, well-being, and my colleagues to support the National with long-term prospects. While a 4-
economic trajectory of the apprentice. Apprenticeship Reauthorization Act so year degree is a great opportunity for
More than two-thirds of all civilian reg- we can make sure we put America back many, it cannot be the only option.
istered apprentices in the United States are to work. I include in the RECORD a letter in
trained in the construction industry. Among
these construction apprentices, seventy-five b 1545 support of the National Apprenticeship
percent receive their training at one of the Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. Act from the National Education Asso-
1,600 privately funded training centers which Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- ciation.
are jointly administered by construction NATIONAL EDUCATION ASSOCIATION,
tleman from Georgia (Mr. ALLEN).
contractors and building trades unions. In- Washington, DC, November 18, 2020.
vesting over $1.6 billion in private capital an-
Mr. ALLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
nually in our Registered Apprenticeship pro- today in strong opposition to H.R. 8294. Washington, DC.
grams, the affiliated unions of NABTU pro- I, too, come from the construction in- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of our 3
vide a debt-free ladder of opportunity to dustry, which I learned from the million members, who prepare students
those who seek a career in the construction ground up, and I know firsthand how across America to pursue fulfilling careers
industry. Our joint labor-management pro- apprenticeships provide our workforce that support their families and communities,
grams have long been considered the gold with a unique opportunity to gain val- we urge you to vote YES on the National Ap-
standard of the Registered Apprenticeship uable skills that are needed to secure a prenticeship Act of 2020 (H.R. 8294). Votes on
system. this issue may be included in the NEA Re-
The National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 good-paying job and a long-lasting ca- port Card for the 116th Congress.
protects many of the hallmarks of the cur- reer. Apprenticeship programs are a key part of
rent system. This bill protects the progres- The reason apprenticeships are so the education landscape, yet the National
sive wage scale for apprentices, which is successful is because employers know Apprenticeship Act has not been signifi-
often a target of those in our industry who exactly what skills are in demand. cantly updated in the nearly 80 years since it
seek to put profits above the well-being and That is why we must encourage more was signed into law. H.R. 8294 recognizes
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
economic security of the people they em- employer-led innovation in the appren- that programs offering on-the-job training
ploy. This bill protects the time-based model and mentoring pave the way to successful ca-
of apprenticeship training that our programs
ticeship space. reers, and helps bring these programs into
have effectively utilized for decades, while This legislation denies workers and the 21st century. The legislation is particu-
providing flexibility for new industries that employers autonomy to create pro- larly timely given rising joblessness and fi-
wish to enter the Registered Apprenticeship grams that are responsive to workforce nancial insecurity stemming from the
system. This bill also protects apprentices needs. This shortsighted bill would COVID–19 pandemic.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.043 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5971
The National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 The existing apprenticeship system is We must return to honoring the dig-
would: severely outdated and is unresponsive nity of work. We must make the skills
Create the Office of Apprenticeship in the to the needs and challenges of a dy- necessary to be a welder or a plumber
U.S. Department of Labor, with responsibil-
namic workforce. The current adminis- or a computer machinist or any skilled
ities including supporting development of
apprenticeship models, providing technical tration has addressed these needs by worker widely available to any high
assistance to state agencies, updating re- creating the Industry-Recognized Ap- school student or graduate so that they
quirements for each occupation in the pro- prenticeship Program, commonly re- can pursue noncollege opportunities
gram, and determining whether to approve ferred to as IRAP. like apprenticeship programs. There
new occupations for the program; Twenty-five years working in private they can acquire the skills necessary
Codify provisions implemented over the industry taught me that no one knows to do the jobs that pay the wages nec-
years regarding registered apprenticeship the needs of workers more than Amer- essary to live a decent life. The Na-
programs and expand the programs to new ica’s employers. It is time that we tional Apprenticeship Act does just
industries;
allow these job creators to participate that. It is the key to the middle class.
Amend the existing law to include pre-ap-
prenticeships and youth apprenticeships; and in a system that is reflective of their Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
Authorize annual grants ranging from $400 needs and the needs of the workforce. Speaker, our bench on the Republican
million to $800 million to expand apprentice- Doing so will open greater pathways to side is very strong, and it is especially
ship programs and encourage employer par- work for current workers and job seek- strong because of the Representatives
ticipation in them. ers and ultimately get more Americans from Pennsylvania.
The National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 back to work. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the
recognizes the value of apprenticeships in In addition to these concerns, I must gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr.
supporting the dreams and ambitions of stu- convey my strong opposition to the MEUSER).
dents of all ages and preparing them for Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, I thank
amendment offered by Representative
high-wage careers. We urge you to vote YES
on H.R. 8294. LEVIN. The amendment essentially re- the incredible gentlewoman from North
Sincerely, stricts nonunion entities from being Carolina for yielding.
MARC EGAN, able to apply for funding under title II, Mr. Speaker, in the last 10 years, the
Director of Government Relations, allowing taxpayer dollars to go to ap- number of Americans entering appren-
National Education Association. prenticeship programs that partner ticeship programs has more than dou-
Mrs. HAYES. Mr. Speaker, the Na- only with unions. bled—a success. The demand among
tional Apprenticeship Act ensures that At best, it is signaling that Congress employers and workers in a variety of
today’s workforce can fill the jobs of would rather double down on a union- industries is an endorsement of the ap-
tomorrow by creating 1 million appren- registered model for large employers prenticeship model’s promise to close
ticeship opportunities over the next 5 rather than expanding to new partici- the skills gap and provide opportuni-
years. pants for America’s small business. ties to millions of Americans—a great
With an average starting salary, This is an attempt to elevate the wants thing.
of unions over the needs of the Amer- The legislation we are considering
after completion, of around $70,000, reg-
ican worker. today, however, would shut down ef-
istered apprenticeships create the op-
Voting for H.R. 8294 in its current forts to expand apprenticeships and
portunity to attain critical training
form supports outdated policies and bu- make the existing 80-year-old reg-
while earning an income and incurring
reaucratic red tape that too often pre- istered apprenticeship program and
little to no student debt. Apprentice-
vents innovation and needed change. system the only option.
ships also ensure businesses can fill Talking to job creators in my dis-
Most importantly, this bill would ac-
key vacancies with credentialed, trict, which I do extensively, I have
tively prevent IRAPs from moving for-
skilled employees—in short, putting heard firsthand the needs for talented,
ward, decimating thousands of oppor-
people back to work. new workers and their challenges with
tunities for workers to participate in a
The National Apprenticeship Act will the cumbersome apprenticeship system
dynamic and innovative apprenticeship
invest in Connecticut workers and our that limits employer-led innovation for
system. This is why we should not sup-
country’s workers and businesses at a port this bill in its current form. union and nonunion employment.
time when we need it most. I urge my Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, The registered apprenticeship system
colleagues to vote in favor of this legis- I yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman is not the gold standard; it is the old
lation. from New York (Mr. SUOZZI). standard. American workers and em-
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I thank ployers need a system as innovative
Speaker, I yield 21⁄2 minutes to the gen- Chairman SCOTT for yielding. and dynamic as our current American
tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. KEL- I rise in support of the National Ap- economy.
LER). prenticeship Act. Republicans offered an all-of-the-
Mr. KELLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Since the late 1980s, the Dow Jones above approach that improves the reg-
today in opposition to H.R. 8294, the has gone up 1,400 percent; GDP has istered apprenticeship system and pro-
National Apprenticeship Act of 2020. gone up 600 percent; enormous wealth motes flexibilities to strengthen our
Apprenticeship programs are a tre- has been created; yet workers’ wages workforce, particularly in manufac-
mendous benefit to our economy. They during the same period of time have turing and construction, and would
provide a diverse range of opportuni- gone up only 20 percent or less. Hard- allow the apprenticeship model to be
ties for emerging workers to hone and working men and women have been left applied across all new industries such
develop specific skills while providing behind. as tech, healthcare, logistics, and en-
competitive salaries that strengthen Everyone in America believes, from ergy—particularly, Mr. Speaker, as we
our economy. the most conservative to the most pro- strive to fortify U.S. manufacturers
I agree with my colleagues that the gressive, that if you are willing to go and rebuild our infrastructure and
National Apprenticeship Act needs to to work every day, you should make repatriatize manufacturers from
be updated and reauthorized; however, enough money so you can have a de- around the world, including China.
Congress needs to ensure that changes cent place to live, you can have health We should not insist on ratio stand-
to this act accurately reflect the needs insurance, you can educate your chil- ards, but we should set very high gold
and challenges of the current economy dren, and you can retire one day with- standards. So we should focus on bak-
and the modern workforce. out being scared. ing pies, not cutting them up.
H.R. 8294 fails to address and expand Unfortunately, that American Dream The economy workforce has evolved
work-based learning programs beyond is no longer a reality for many Ameri- over the past 80 years. Our laws should,
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
the traditional registered model. Now, cans. The National Apprenticeship Act too. I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on this bill.
more than ever, we need an apprentice- says learn while you earn, because we Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
ship system that provides tools and op- all know, the more you learn, the more I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman
portunities for workers to succeed and you earn. Yet 60 percent of Americans from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR), a senior mem-
will encourage our small- and medium- do not attend college or do not grad- ber of the Committee on Appropria-
sized businesses to participate. uate from college. tions.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.012 H19NOPT1
H5972 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in can gain access to and retain high-skill, apprentices and employers while favor-
strong support of H.R. 8294, the Na- high-wage jobs through registered appren- ing unions, it also drastically increases
tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020, and ticeships, pre-apprenticeships, and youth ap- the amount of bureaucratic red tape
prenticeships. Finally, we are very appre-
thank the gentleman for his enormous ciative of the open and consultative process
placed on States and program sponsors.
leadership, as well as Chairwoman that you and your staff have engaged in to Apprenticeship programs are fan-
SUSAN DAVIS. get public input as you developed this bill, tastic options for individuals to gain
This legislation takes real meaning- including allowing us to submit detailed skills and find well-paying jobs and for
ful steps to increase access to reg- comments on a publicly available discussion businesses to grow and expand their
istered apprenticeships, one of the draft, and your staff’s willingness to respond workforce. Especially in a year that
most successful workforce development to questions and concerns on an on-going has greatly affected our workers, we
programs we have ever had in our basis. H.R. 8294 could well be a key piece to
should not pass legislation that threat-
remedy the enduring skills and pay gap as
country, where 94 percent of people we move beyond the ‘‘She-cession.’’ ens to reduce access to workforce de-
who complete them actually earn an TWTF is pleased to support H.R. 8294. In velopment or makes it more difficult
average salary of over $70,000 a year. particular, we support the bill’s incorpora- to run or establish an apprenticeship
As Representative of the cities of To- tion of nondiscrimination and affirmative program. I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote.
ledo, Lorain, and Cleveland, all of action standards for apprenticeship pro- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
which boast a strong industrial and grams currently codified in 29 CFR part 30; I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman
automotive heritage, it is difficult to the requirement that funded entities devote
from Pennsylvania (Ms. WILD), a mem-
a minimum of 5 percent of grant funds to di-
overemphasize the value that these ap- rect financial assistance to apprentices, pre- ber of the Education and Labor Com-
prenticeships have for young people apprentices, or youth apprentices for sup- mittee.
and adults starting careers in the in- portive services; and the significant invest- Ms. WILD. Mr. Speaker, I include in
dustrial and automotive trades. ments that the bill makes in registered ap- the RECORD a letter dated November 17,
Whether it is the expertise it takes prenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth 2020, from the International Union of
to rebuild an engine or build it to begin apprenticeship programs and technical as- Operating Engineers in support of this
with, replace a battery in a hybrid ve- sistance to make progress on equity and in- bill, addressed to the Honorable Robert
hicle or TIG weld the rear quarter of an clusion for women and people of color. We
look forward to continuing to work with
C. Scott, chair of the Committee on
old Wagoneer, there will always be a your staff to accommodate remaining con- Education and Labor.
market for skilled craftspeople who cerns as the legislation moves forward in the INTERNATIONAL UNION OF
can repair or restore modern and clas- next Congress. OPERATING ENGINEERS,
sic vehicles. It is these curious minds Respectfully, Washington, DC, November 17, 2020.
and hands that are America’s inventors CONNIE ASHBROOK, Hon. ROBERT C. SCOTT,
of the future for new power systems LEAH RAMBO, Chair, Committee on Education and Labor,
and new engines. TWTF Co-Chairs. House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. DEAR CHAIRMAN SCOTT: The International
This legislation is estimated to cre- Union of Operating Engineers supports H.R.
ate over 1 million apprenticeship op- Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen-
tleman from Alabama (Mr. BYRNE), 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020,
portunities over the next 5 years and and we appreciate your work to strengthen
will strengthen our workforce, ensur- who has been an extremely valuable
and expand opportunities in America’s most
ing businesses large and small can re- member of this committee, and we will successful training model for blue-collar
cruit the skilled workers they need. miss him in the next term. workers: apprenticeship.
I include in the RECORD a letter from Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise The International Union of Operating En-
the National Task Force on today in opposition to H.R. 8294, the gineers (IUOE) represents 400,000 operating
National Apprenticeship Act of 2020. and stationary engineers who build the
Tradeswomen’s Issues that supports
The original National Apprenticeship transportation, water systems, and energy
this legislation. networks that comprise the nation’s core in-
Act was passed in 1937 and is now over
NATIONAL TASK FORCE 80 years old. There is no doubt that frastructure. In partnership with construc-
ON TRADESWOMEN’S ISSUES, tion contractors and employers of stationary
Congress should update the Apprentice-
November 18, 2020. engineers, the IUOE dedicates resources to
Re H.R. 8294 Letter of Support, NAA Reau- ship Act; however, the legislation being
develop and implement nearly 100 registered
thorization. considered today will harm apprentice- apprenticeship programs. The programs pos-
To: Committee on Education and Labor ships rather than aid workforce devel- sess over 550 instructors. and they train tens
Chairperson Robert C. ‘‘Bobby’’ Scott opment. of thousands of apprentices and journey-level
Attention: Katherine McClelland. H.R. 8294 removes the Department of workers every year. This focus on training is
The National Taskforce on Tradeswomen’s Labor’s ability to administer industry- reflected in the safety, skills. and produc-
Issues (TWTF) is a coalition of tradeswomen recognized apprenticeship programs, tivity of members of the Operating Engi-
organizations, advocates, allies and indi- making only DOL-registered programs neers. Labor-management apprenticeship
vidual tradeswomen. TWTF promotes public available. While DOL-approved pro- program of the IUOE and our employers are
policies and best practices towards equity in grams work for many employers, one- widely recognized as the gold standard of our
apprenticeship, training, workforce develop- industries and our occupations.
ment, career and technical education, and in
size-fits-all solutions don’t work for Since the National Apprenticeship Act was
workplace experience in construction and many industries and are simply not the first authorized in 1937, the Registered Ap-
other nontraditional occupations for women. answer. prenticeship system has served as a model
Women make up close to 50% of the nation’s Industry-recognized apprenticeship for delivering industry-driven training in the
workforce. Women occupy 2/3’s of the min- programs are developed by third-party construction sector and beyond. According
imum wage jobs in this country. Yet, women groups that are recognized by the De- to the Department of Labor, 94 percent of ap-
comprise only 7% of our nation’s apprentice- partment of Labor. They are held to prentices who complete Registered Appren-
ship programs. Apprenticeship is a critical high standards to ensure apprentices ticeships are employed upon completion,
component of our efforts to increase eco- are receiving the training that they earning an average starting wage of above
nomic opportunity for women, particularly $70,000 annually. Apprentice wages are con-
need. nected to experience, skill development, and
women of color, in blue-collar occupations.
TWTF very much appreciates the interest IRAPs have already proven to be suc- productivity. The increase annually and in-
of the House of Representatives Education & cessful in helping to expand access to clude benefits like health insurance and a
Labor Committee and its Higher Education apprenticeships. Somebody argued that pension plan. The Registered Apprenticeship
& Workforce Investment Subcommittee in IRAPs are harmful because they think system remains a highly successful path for
reauthorizing the National Apprenticeship it might limit involvement in union- thousands of workers, providing a stable and
Act in a way that best protects apprentices sponsored apprenticeships. What these predictable career path with economic secu-
and enhances their opportunities for mean- individuals do not think about are the rity.
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
ingful, well-compensated careers. TWTF is H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act
areas of the country like mine where
grateful for the careful attention that the of 2020 expands the limited framework of the
National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, H.R. union-sponsored apprenticeships do not existing Registered Apprenticeship program
8294, pays to ensuring that women and people exist or are extremely limited. My to reinforce quality standards that safeguard
of color—populations that have historically home district has none. the welfare of apprentices. The legislation
been too often unfairly denied opportunities Not only does this legislation try to codifies and streamlines the existing regula-
because of their gender, race, or ethnicity— force one-size-fits-all programs on to tions and includes important reporting and
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.047 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5973
evaluation requirements to guarantee pro- like apprenticeship programs for early taxpayers. I believe that that is a real
gram effectiveness and accountability. The childhood educators, something Con- darn good return.
legislation strengthens the connections to gressman GUTHRIE and I have sought to This legislation could not be more
the career ladder for apprentices, more close-
do with our Early Educators Appren- timely because of the record unemploy-
ly linking pre-apprenticeship and youth ap-
prenticeship programs with the system of ticeship Act. ment and because of the pain America
registered apprenticeship. The enhanced Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend, Rep- is experiencing. This legislation also
technical assistance in the legislation will resentative SUSAN DAVIS, for her lead- creates an additional 1 million new ap-
help expand Registered Apprenticeship op- ership on this bill, and I urge a ‘‘yes’’ prenticeship opportunities.
portunities into new sectors. That technical vote. Let me tell you what I did before I
assistance will also support more opportuni- Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. flew up here to Washington. I visited
ties to improve diversity, bringing more Speaker, I yield myself such time as I Lone Star College—it hadn’t opened
women, people of color, and veterans into
may consume yet—at the Fallbrook campus. But
the system of apprenticeship.
The value of this proven on-the-job train- Mr. Speaker, others have spoken to they understood what apprenticeship is
ing model is even more evident today as we this bill being a gift to the unions this all about. They have a logistics appren-
navigate the unprecedented challenges afternoon. It is no surprise that the ticeship that is going to be part of
brought on by the COVID–19 pandemic. The Democrats want to pay favor to the their educational system. That will
response to this extraordinary crisis will re- union bosses who line their pockets. give people the opportunity in this
quire extensive public investment to rebuild Their end goal must be what all social- whole new business of online selling
America’s infrastructure and its workforce. ist countries have in common: control and buying. Yes, it is innovative.
The National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 pro-
vides historic investments in workforce
of the workforce through unions. After HCC apprenticeship program, Hous-
training, laying the foundation for economic all, they have spent this Congress ton Community College, has electrical
recovery and preparing the skilled and quali- pushing one socialist agenda after an- contractors, plumbers, masonry, iron-
fied workforce to rebuild our country. While other. workers, asbestos workers, glaziers,
the nation continues to experience stag- The bill before us is just another ex- painters, and stationary engineers. Let
gering levels of unemployment, the reau- ample. Democrats’ blatant favoritism me tell you the real picture that we see
thorization of the National Apprenticeship towards unions will block countless of this issue of helping with apprentice-
Act, will expand job opportunities and in- jobseekers from receiving apprentice- ship, Mr. Speaker. These are the faces
crease access to high-paying careers for mil-
ship opportunities. America’s workers from all over our city.
lions of hard-working Americans.
The International Union of Operating En- and their families will pay the price. And guess what?
gineers proudly endorses H.R. 8294, the Na- This bill reinforces the idea that there According to the Houston Chronicle:
tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020, and we is only one way to do things—the gov- ‘‘Interested in a new career? Consider
look forward to working with you to enact it ernment’s way. an apprenticeship. Union-sponsored
into law during this session of Congress. When will Democrats learn that the programs build skills, careers.’’
Sincerely, American people are not interested in Mr. Speaker, I include that article in
JAMES T. CALLAHAN, government-mandated socialist poli- the RECORD.
General President.
Ms. WILD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in sup- cies? [From the Houston Chronicle]
port of the National Apprenticeship Once again, Democrats are choosing INTERESTED IN A NEW CAREER? CONSIDER AN
Act of 2020. to bend to the will of Big Labor instead APPRENTICESHIP UNION-SPONSORED PRO-
of putting American workers first. It is GRAMS BUILD SKILLS, CAREERS.
COVID–19 has exposed shortcomings
shameful, Mr. Speaker, and I reserve Houston Community College is restoring
in our workforce infrastructure, but an old high school and converting it into col-
those shortcomings are the result of a the balance of my time.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, lege classrooms. And it’s using some of its
long history of making only marginal own apprentices to do it.
investments in our national appren- I yield 21⁄2 minutes to the gentlewoman San Jacinto Senior High was built in 1960,
ticeship model. It seems we are always from Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE). and the community college is gutting it for
reacting to crisis rather than planning Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I new academic classrooms. The project start-
in advance. thank the gentleman from Virginia for ed about a year ago, and is scheduled to be
In response to the Great Recession of yielding and for his leadership, and I completed in October.
thank the gentlewoman from Cali- The eight apprentices—six plumbers and
2008, Congress invested significant two pipe fitters—are among the thousands of
funding in our workforce systems. In fornia for her leadership.
Mr. Speaker, I rise with great enthu- student workers in Houston who spend their
this Congress, we made investments days doing construction and their nights hit-
through the CARES Act, but only as siasm to support this outstanding leg-
ting the books. Houston’s 11 union-sponsored
this COVID crisis spiraled. islation which is H.R. 8294, the Na- programs, including the plumbers and the
tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020. pipe fitters, last for five years; other pro-
b 1600 Mr. Speaker, 250,000 Americans have grams, such as ironworkers and glaziers, last
It should not take a recession or a died from COVID–19. Today 720,000 three years.
pandemic to invest in workers in com- Americans applied for unemployment But once the newly minted journeymen
munities like mine. Lehigh, North- insurance, and here we are today recog- and women graduate, they should have great
ampton, and Monroe Counties are re- nizing the pain that America is experi- skills and—if the economy cooperates—a
great career path.
plete with potential, but it is critical encing, but more importantly giving an Chuck Fell, president of CFI Mechanical,
that we invest in times of prosperity, opportunity for young Americans and which is installing the plumbing, heating
too. For every dollar invested in our others to be part of a major apprentice- and air conditioning in the new community
registered apprenticeship program, we ship program which invests more than college building, gave the group of appren-
see a return of $28 in benefits, but the $3.5 billion over 5 years in expanding tices a pep talk last week at the job site.
U.S. invests just $195 in public money opportunities and access to registered ‘‘You are learning skills,’’ Fell said to the
per apprentice while a system like Can- apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, plumbers and pipe fitters who are spending
their days assembling and installing the
ada spends $1,300 per apprentice. and preapprenticeship.
massive piping systems and four hours a
This bill would reset our approach. It I am glad to be an American. I am night, two nights a week in school learning
makes long-term investments regard- glad to be a union supporter, and one of their craft.
less of our economic fortunes or mis- the reasons is that I look over the Those skills can take you a long way,
fortunes. It provides grants for employ- landscape of my mother’s work and my whether you opt to stay working in the craft
ers to incentivize the hiring of appren- father’s work, and I saw lives improve or move up to foreman, superintendent or
tices. At the same time, it provides as unions gathered together to ensure project manager, said Fell, who attributed
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
workers with the opportunity to earn that Americans could have a decent his own success and that of nearly all of his
project managers to their own apprentice-
while they learn and obtain portable living, support their family, and pro-
ship training.
credentials without incurring signifi- vide opportunities for their children. ‘‘You could be an owner of a company,’’
cant debt. This bill emphasizes the im- Here we are today investing $3.5 bil- said Fell, who became a plumber/pipe fitter
portance of apprenticeship programs’ lion, but the return will be $10.6 billion apprentice in Orlando, Fla., after graduating
high-need social service occupations, in net benefits to the United States from college with a degree in architecture.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.018 H19NOPT1
H5974 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
He went to work for a mechanical con- Mr. Speaker, I don’t think we are have an equal opportunity to participate in pro-
tractor who suggested that to really learn doing anything better today and this grams under the national apprenticeship sys-
the business, Fell needed to become an ap- week by providing for $3.5 billion in ap- tem, and to increase diversity in the occupa-
prentice.
As part of that training, Fell spent two
prenticeship programs and $10.6 billion tions offered and the individuals participating
years at Walt Disney World’s Epcot Center in return to the United States. I ask in programs, especially in high-skill, high-
installing the mechanical and plumbing sys- my colleagues to support this legisla- wage, and in-demand industry sectors and oc-
tems. tion and put Americans back to work. cupations.
‘‘Set your sights high,’’ Doug Posey, direc- Mr. Speaker, as a senior member of the The legislation institutionalizes, and estab-
tor of apprenticeship programs for Houston Committees on the Judiciary, on Homeland lishes by statute, the Department of Labor’s
Community College, told the apprentices. Security, on the Budget, and as a cosponsor, (DOL) Office of Apprenticeship, and vests it
‘‘The opportunities are just incredible to I rise in strong support of H.R. 8294, the Na- with the following roles and responsibilities:
excel and to do great things.’’
tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020, which in- 1. Increasing participation in programs
Posey recalled how he put himself through
college as a pipe fitter apprentice. He started vests more than $3.5 billion over 5 years in under the national apprenticeship system
his apprenticeship immediately after high expanding opportunities and access to Reg- through technical assistance and program rec-
school and eventually ended up with a degree istered Apprenticeships, youth apprentice- ognition activities;
in mechanical engineering from the Univer- ships, and pre-apprenticeships. 2. Bringing together industry sector leaders
sity of Houston. I thank my colleague and good friend, Con- and experts, including employers, industry as-
While the concept of apprenticing yourself gresswoman SUSAN DAVIS of California and sociations, joint labor-management organiza-
to a master craftsman and learning a trade Chairman BOBBY SCOTT for introducing this tions, labor organizations, education and train-
is centuries old, it’s not exactly a well-
important legislation that has the potential to ing providers, credential providers, and ap-
known career path today. But two appren-
tices who are working on the CFI Mechanical yield $10.6 billion in net benefits to U.S. tax- prentices to establish national frameworks to
project are glad they discovered the old-fash- payers in the form of increased workers’ pro- expand apprenticeships to new occupations
ioned way to learn a skill. ductivity and deceased spending on public-as- and sectors; and
Jaime Moncivais, a third-year apprentice, sistance programs and unemployment insur- 3. Improving the data infrastructure to im-
said he would never have heard about the ance and which bring America’s investments prove reporting and publicly disseminating in-
program if it hadn’t been for his cousin and in apprenticeship more in line with countries formation about apprenticeship programs.
his uncle, who are foremen at the job site. He around the world. Another strong feature of this legislation is
was working for a small company for two that it codifies the roles and responsibilities of
Mr. Speaker, the Registered Apprenticeship
years before he left to join the program.
Moncivais is 23 and earns about $43,000 a (RAs) system is America’s most successful the State Apprenticeship Agencies (SAAs) by:
year, plus health insurance and retirement federally authorized workforce development 1. Authorizing annual funding for State Ap-
benefits, by working full time during the program. prenticeship Offices and SAAs at $75 million
day. After work two nights a week, he at- According to the Department of Labor, 94 for fiscal year (FY) 2021, increasing by $10
tends class for four hours. That costs him $88 percent of people who complete RAs are em- million annually to reach $15 million for FY
a semester. ployed upon completion, earning an average 2025, with one-third of funds equally distrib-
‘‘I’m enjoying it,’’ said Moncivais, who starting wage of above $7,000 annually. uted to all States and outlying areas, and two-
says he’s going to get his state plumbing li- Yet, according to the most recent data, only thirds of funds distributed via formula to SAAs;
cense before he decides what’s next.
So does his fellow apprentice Rudy Flores, 0.3 percent of the overall workforce in America and
who said he was drawn by the money. He es- have completed an apprenticeship. 2. Requiring SAAs to submit plans for reg-
timates he earns about $50,000 a year. Mr. Speaker, this legislation could not be istered apprenticeship activities, which gen-
Flores, a fifth-year apprentice who has al- more timely because during a time of record erally mirror existing state requirements under
ready received his state plumbing license, unemployment, the National Apprenticeship the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
found out about the apprenticeship training Act of 2020 invests more than $3.5 billion over and the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical
program while working for a plumber in 5 years in expanding opportunities and access Education Act.
Houston who was also a former apprentice. My concluding reason for supporting this im-
to Registered Apprenticeships, youth appren-
He said he appreciates the intensive train-
ing of the program that sets him and the ticeships, and pre-apprenticeships. portant legislation is that it strengthens the
other apprentices apart. This legislation also creates an additional 1 connections between the Department of Edu-
‘‘We like to see institutions put their million new apprenticeship opportunities on cation and Department of Labor through an
money where their mouth is,’’ said Richard top of the current expected growth of the ap- interagency agreement to support the creation
Shaw, secretary-treasurer of the Harris prenticeship system, an investment that not and expansion of youth apprenticeships, col-
County AFL-CIO. ‘‘It sends a message that only will pay off for workers and employers, lege consortiums, and data sharing agree-
you ought to be training our students.’’ but also benefit the taxpayers. ments.
Shaw has been critical of school districts
Mr. Speaker, this legislation is critical to ex- I strongly support this legislation and urge
and other community colleges for not hiring
their own graduates when the schools need panding the nation’s workforce development all Members to join me in voting for its pas-
construction work. system during our country’s deepest economic sage.
Funding for the apprenticeship programs downturn since the Great Depression. Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
comes in part from the state of Texas. But Specifically, the National Apprenticeship Act Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
the bulk of the money comes from contrac- of 2020 Authorizes $400 million for fiscal year may consume.
tors and union members. (FY) 2021, increasing $100 million annually to Mr. Speaker, millions of workers will
For example, members of the plumbers $800 million for FY 2025, to support the cre- need reskilling due to pandemic-re-
union as well as plumbing contractors each ation or expansion of registered apprentice- lated job loss and displacement.
contribute 55 cents per work hour for the
ships, youth apprenticeships and pre-appren- The World Economic Forum dis-
training program.
HCC is the fiscal administrator of the ticeships programs, including in non-traditional cusses this issue at length in their re-
union programs as well as the two nonunion apprenticeship occupations and for nontradi- cent report titled: ‘‘The Future of Jobs
programs that train building engineers and tional populations. Report 2020.’’ In the report they point
electrical workers. This funding will also attract and encourage to a double disruption scenario impact-
Calvin Speight, business manager of employer participation and recruitment for indi- ing workers due to both automation
Plumbers Local Union No. 68, said he has 60 viduals with barriers to employment, including and COVID–19 workplace disruptions.
apprentices starting in the fall and another individuals impacted by the criminal justice This double disruption is further rein-
30 the following semester.
In the meantime, they’re working as
system. forced in their findings that ‘‘84 per-
‘‘provisionals’’ to see if they like the job. Ap- Additionally, to ensure that apprenticeship cent of employers are set to rapidly
prentices must be 18 years of age and either agreements and program registration to en- digitalize working processes.’’
have graduated from high school or have a sure consistency in quality standards and The demand for reskilling workers is
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
general-equivalency degree. worker protections, H.R. 8294 codifies and high, and we will be left chasing the
Ms. JACKSON-LEE. Then I would streamlines standards for registered appren- needs of our workforce with the cur-
like to emphasize real-life activity ticeships, youth apprenticeship and pre-ap- rent one-size-fits-all approach this bill
that comes about through the appren- prenticeship programs. seeks to enshrine into law. As in-de-
ticeship: HCC apprenticeship students Also, codified are the existing regulations mand skills evolve in the years to
help build a new hospital. and practices to ensure that all individuals come, the skills gap will continue to
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.019 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5975
grow in the absence of forward-think- Mrs. TRAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to businesses in participating in reg-
ing reform. offer my strong support for the Na- istered apprenticeship programs and
I, again, urge my colleagues on the tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020. provide a particular focus on opportu-
other side of the aisle to join Repub- Especially I would like to commend nities for people of color, women, and
licans in creating new apprenticeship the bill’s author, my friend, Represent- veterans.
pathways through innovative models ative SUSAN DAVIS. It is due to her At a time when college students are
such as the industry recognized appren- steadfast and visionary leadership on drowning in debt, we need to advance
ticeship model. the Higher Education and Workforce measures that offer more affordable
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Development Subcommittee that we pathways to the middle class. The bill
my time. are here today advancing this impor- before us will help countless people
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, tant and timely legislation. This bill is achieve the American Dream.
could you advise how much time is re- an apt capstone on her remarkable leg- Mr. Speaker, I thank the chair and
maining on both sides. acy. Representative DAVIS for their excel-
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Registered apprenticeships are a lent work, and I urge the bill’s passage.
CUELLAR). The gentleman from Vir- tried and true system for preparing our Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
ginia has 81⁄2 minutes remaining. The workforce for stable jobs that provide Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
gentlewoman from North Carolina has family sustaining wages and benefits. I may consume.
3 minutes remaining. have seen firsthand how unions have Mr. Speaker, actions speak louder
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, put this tool to excellent use over the than words. When it comes to Demo-
I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from years. In fact, just last year I visited crats’ delivering on promises, Ameri-
the Northern Mariana Islands (Mr. the Laborers’ training facility in cans are often left disappointed. Work-
SABLAN), who is the chairman of the Hopkinton, Massachusetts, where force development and apprenticeships
Subcommittee on Early Childhood, El- young apprentices are training for ca- are no exception. Take their so-called
ementary and Secondary Education. reers in construction. The Laborers Heroes Act as an example.
Mr. SABLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognize the importance of this bill, Democrats tout the impactful role
support of H.R. 8294. which is why they have endorsed it and apprenticeships will play as our coun-
For 83 years, the National Appren- urged its passage. try recovers from the COVID–19 pan-
ticeship Act has helped local econo- Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD demic. Yet their bill allocates a min-
mies grow by providing unprecedented a letter. iscule percentage of money for work-
career opportunities to young people. LiUNA!, force development initiatives, and it
However, the National Apprenticeship Washington, DC, November 18, 2020.
House of Representatives,
doesn’t do anything to ensure the
Act has not supported apprenticeships
Washington, DC. money is used to develop and educate
in the Northern Mariana Islands and
DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: I write on behalf of workers.
other insular areas. That inequity
the 500,000 hardworking men and women of In the first Heroes Act only .07 per-
changes today. the Laborers’ International Union of North cent of total funding was allocated to
H.R. 8294 incorporates my bill, the America (LIUNA) to ask you to vote for H.R. the Employment and Training Admin-
Outlying Area Apprenticeship Expan- 8294, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, istration. Unsurprisingly, in the Heroes
sion Act, investing more than $11.2 mil- when it comes to the House floor for a vote
Act 2.0, only 0.1 percent of total fund-
lion over 5 years to create and expand this week. LIUNA is proud to support this
important bill to keep our union apprentice- ing was allocated to the Employment
apprenticeships to the insular areas.
ship programs strong. and Training Administration. This is
Our schools already provide students
Registered Apprenticeship Programs, like hypocrisy at its best.
with the skills employers seek. But we
need to build the connection between
the ones that LIUNA has had for decades, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of
help workers earn while they learn. H.R. 8294 my time.
the classroom and real-world work. Ap- invests more than $3.5 billion over five (5)
prenticeships provide that link. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
years in expanding opportunities and access
I thank Congresswoman DAVIS and I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman
to Registered Apprenticeship Programs and
Chairman SCOTT for their leadership on Preapprenticeship Programs, among others. from Georgia (Mrs. MCBATH), who is a
apprenticeships and for working with The bill creates nearly a million new appren- member of the Committee on Edu-
me to include a technical fix to fully ticeship opportunities on top of the current cation and Labor.
include the insular areas in the act. expected growth of the apprenticeship sys- Mrs. MCBATH. Mr. Speaker, I rise
tem. It would also yield $10.6 billion in net today to support H.R. 8294, the Na-
With widespread unemployment due to
benefits to U.S. taxpayers in the form of in- tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020.
the coronavirus, we need to help people creased workers productivity and decreased
get to work. H.R. 8294 will help accom- We are in the midst of our country’s
spending on public assistance programs and
plish that goal. unemployment insurance. The rigorous
worst economic crisis in decades, and
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to standards in the bill ensure that the pro- to better serve the American people,
vote ‘‘yes’’ on H.R. 8294. I am going to grams that apprentices will work in will be we must invest in our workforce and
miss Chairwoman SUSAN DAVIS as well. top-quality. invest in the American Dream.
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. At a time when our nation’s infrastructure Registered apprenticeships prepare
Speaker, earlier we heard from our col- needs are so great, H.R. 8294 will ensure that people for the jobs of the 21st century,
we continue to train the best workforce in and with the evolution of technologies
leagues that there is going to be a $3 the world.
return to the American people for Again, I ask that you vote in favor of this
like 5G, Congress and the Department
every tax dollar they give up to get important bill on the House floor. of Labor should be laser focused on en-
this program funded in the next 5 With kind regards, I am. couraging and incentivizing appren-
years. I want to tell you that I think Sincerely yours, ticeships for advanced wireless deploy-
the American people would be happy to TERRY O’SULLIVAN, ment. By supporting these programs,
see that return. General President. we can ensure that Georgia remains
Show me any Federal program that Mrs. TRAHAN. However, for far too the best State in the country to live
returns to hardworking taxpayers $3 long, apprenticeship opportunities have and to do business.
for every dollar they pay in, and I will been utilized almost exclusively for For decades, the registered appren-
show you some swampland in New Mex- just a handful of construction-oriented ticeship program has proven to be an
ico. occupations. It is time to open this entry into the middle class for many
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of successful model to a wider range of ca- people. Congresswoman DAVIS’ Na-
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
my time. reers and invite folks from a more di- tional Apprenticeship Act would sup-
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, verse array of backgrounds to partici- port a successful workforce program at
I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman pate. This bill accomplishes both. a time when our Nation needs it the
from Massachusetts (Mrs. TRAHAN), I am particularly pleased it includes most.
who is a member of the Committee on legislation that Representative Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to
Education and Labor. MORELLE and I filed to assist small support this legislation.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:04 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.052 H19NOPT1
H5976 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
b 1615 Union Plumbers and Pipe Fitters, the the ‘‘National Apprenticeship Act of 2020,’’
National Electrical Contractors Asso- which would work to strengthen the time-
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. tested apprenticeship model that has sus-
Speaker, I yield myself such time as I ciation, and Third Way in support of
tained the level of excellence our contractors
may consume. the legislation. exhibit.
Mr. Speaker, workforce programs We write to urge the strong support and For over 70 years, our electrical industry
like apprenticeships will aid in closing swift passage of H.R. 8294, the National Ap- apprenticeship program, a joint labor/man-
the skills gap and put more Americans prenticeship Act of 2020. This bill would pro- agement venture between NECA and the
tect and expand union apprenticeship oppor- International Brotherhood of Electrical
to work, but only if employees and job
tunities and codify the Office of Apprentice- Workers, has allowed participants the oppor-
creators are given the flexibility to in- ship, helping to strengthen Registered Ap- tunity to learn a skilled trade in the elec-
novate and develop high-quality earn- prenticeships and protect the more than trical industry while receiving fair wages,
and-learn programs without overreach 359,000 men and women of the United Asso- health care, and retirement benefits. With
from Washington. ciation of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters the combination of both on the job training
That is why Republicans want to ex- (UA), and union members everywhere, from (8,000 hours), classroom learning (900 hours),
pand employers’ opportunities to ad- unscrupulous contractors looking to cut cor- and remote virtual labs, our apprenticeship
dress the needs of their current and ners. model offers the highest quality instruction
prospective workers through an all-of- It is no secret that the safest, most highly- at minimal cost to the apprentice or the
skilled, and most cost-effective workers Federal Government while producing the na-
the-above approach to apprenticeships tion’s finest electricians.
come from Registered Apprenticeships like
rather than closing potential pathways that of the United Association. We are im- Even with this model firmly in place, more
to work. mensely proud of the robust investments— must be done. As our nation continues to
Unfortunately, H.R. 8294 doubles more than $275 million annually—that the grapple with the effects of the ongoing pan-
down on a narrow and prescriptive ap- UA makes in training and apprenticeship demic, our contractors find themselves in
proach and gives Washington bureau- programs to ensure our members are the continuous need of more skilled workers to
crats, not job creators, more control. most highly-trained and most highly-skilled help rebuild this nation. NECA believes this
This flawed legislation will prevent craftspeople in the world. On the jobsite, legislation is a step in the right direction to-
that translates to not only fewer accidents wards fulfilling this need. H.R. 8294 would
more job seekers from accessing ap- work to bring greater funding to proven pro-
prenticeship opportunities. and injuries, but more projects of the highest
standard completed on time and on budget. gram models, expand the standards approval
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- process, and bridge the gaps between appren-
H.R. 8294 makes crucial changes to the
leagues to join me in voting ‘‘no’’ on Registered Apprenticeship program and sets ticeship programs and the secondary/postsec-
H.R. 8294, and I yield back the balance firm standards for pre-apprenticeship pro- ondary education system.
of my time. grams, which have exponentially grown over We at NECA look forward to monitoring
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, the last several years; no longer can exploit- the floor debate on this topic and encourage
I yield myself such time as I may con- ative contractors prop up pre-apprenticeship your support for H.R. 8294, the ‘‘National Ap-
sume. programs without having clear and defined prenticeship Act of 2020.’’ Thank you for
pathways into a Registered Apprenticeship your consideration.
Mr. Speaker, while I am disappointed
program. Further, H.R. 8294 adds statutory Sincerely,
that some of my Republican colleagues MARCO A. GIAMBERARDINO,
now appear to be opposed to some parts protections and enshrines the Office of Ap-
prenticeship into law, which will result in es- Vice President,
of the National Apprenticeship Act of Government and Public Affairs.
tablished funding streams that ensure the
2020, I still remain hopeful that we can necessary oversight of the program and ex- THIRD WAY,
come together to pass this critical leg- pand technical assistance to help Registered Washington, DC, November 19, 2020.
islation. Apprenticeship opportunities reach new sec- Hon. BOBBY SCOTT,
All of us agree that Congress must tors. In addition, this bill strengthens the House Committee on Education and Labor,
prioritize investing in apprenticeship National Advisory Committee on Appren- Washington, DC.
DEAR CHAIRMAN SCOTT: We are pleased to
opportunities. That is why the com- ticeship, meaning practitioners of Registered
see that the National Apprenticeship Act of
mittee members on both sides of the Apprenticeships in both industry and labor
2020 is receiving a vote this week on the
aisle spent months working in good are given a voice to offer recommendations
House floor. With millions of Americans out
faith toward a bipartisan proposal. to further strengthen the program.
Our members clearly understand the rami- of work due to the COVID—0919 pandemic, it
The tried-and-true registered appren- is vital that policymakers work toward an
fications of any proposed changes to our ap-
ticeship programs funded in this bill prenticeship programs and standards. That is
inclusive economic recovery. That’s why we
provide valuable credentials that are encourage House lawmakers to pass the Na-
why this bill to reauthorize the National Ap-
nationally recognized. We have heard tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020, which
prenticeship Act and codify protections and
about the new, untried program, the would provide a much-needed revamp of the
funding sources for Registered Apprentice-
nation’s registered apprenticeship system.
IRAP, industry-recognized apprentice- ships is critical for our members. We urge
Apprenticeships can play a key role in our
ship programs. Unfortunately, those you to support this bill and ensure that the
economic recovery and help people regain
programs do not create valuable cre- Building Trades Registered Apprenticeships
their footing in the job market.
dentials and are not nationally recog- remain the Gold Standard of the construc- Through your leadership, the National Ap-
tion industry. prenticeship Act of 2020 would take impor-
nized. As always, feel free to reach out with any
Our work on this is even more impor- tant steps to bolster apprenticeships across
questions. The entire UA stands ready to as- the country. It would broaden economic op-
tant now, considering the significant sist in any way possible.
work we have to do because of the portunity by expanding apprenticeships to
Best, women, people of color, and people facing
COVID–19 pandemic. RUSS BRECKENRIDGE, barriers to employment. The legislation
Mr. Speaker, as we often have a United Association of would help small and medium-sized busi-
strong voice in support of apprentice- Union Plumbers & nesses create apprenticeship programs. Fur-
ship programs, the National Appren- Pipefitters, Legisla- ther, it would modernize our nation’s ap-
ticeship Act of 2020 offers us a real op- tive and Political Af- prenticeship system by expanding appren-
fairs. ticeships in growing fields like information
portunity to actually match our words
CALLA BROWN, technology, advanced manufacturing, and
with action. United Association of
Mr. Speaker, I hope that today we health care.
Union Plumbers & The bill would also expand apprenticeships
can set our politics aside and make the Pipefitters, Legisla- in part by relying on intermediaries, or ap-
investment in registered apprentice- tive and Political Af- prenticeship hubs, which would bring to-
ships, pre-apprenticeships, and youth fairs. gether employers, education providers,
apprenticeships that our economy NATIONAL ELECTRICAL unions, and other organizations in each state
needs and our workers deserve. CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION, that will work in concert to expand appren-
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle- November 17, 2020. ticeships. This is an approach Third Way has
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the long advocated for, and we’re thrilled that
woman from California (Mrs. DAVIS) for
nearly 4,000–member companies of the Na- it’s a key part of this legislation.
her steadfast leadership on this legisla- tional Electrical Contractors Association Through the National Apprenticeship Act
tion, and I urge my colleagues to sup- (NECA) and the $171 billion industry that of 2020, this country can promote apprentice-
port the bill. brings power. light, and communication ships as a key tool in our economic recovery
Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD technology to communities across the U.S. I and ensure everyone has pathways to in-de-
letters from the United Association of write to you in strong support of H.R. 8294, mand, good-paying careers. We thank you,
VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:26 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.054 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5977
Chairwoman Susan Davis, and House Edu- the needs of employers and provide workers vided and controlled by the proponent
cation and Labor Committee Democrats for with important support services, like access to and an opponent, may be withdrawn by
their leadership on this legislation and urge tools, work attire, transportation, child care, the proponent at any time before the
Members to support it.
Sincerely,
and mentorship support. I am grateful that question is put thereon, shall not be
GABRIEL HORWITZ, Chair DAVIS incorporated many of our PART- subject to amendment, and shall not be
Senior Vice President, NERS Act provisions in the National Appren- subject to a demand for division of the
Third Way. ticeship Act. question.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Registered Apprenticeships provide mean- It shall be in order at any time for
I yield back the balance of my time. ingful upskilling and reskilling opportunities the chair of the Committee on Edu-
Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in sup- and supportive services for displaced and dis- cation and Labor or his designee to
port of H.R. 8294, the National Apprenticeship located workers. I am pleased to be co-lead- offer amendments en bloc consisting of
Act. ing this important bill with Chair DAVIS to cre- further amendments printed in part B
In my home state of Oregon and around the ate nearly one million new Registered Appren- of House Report 116–593, not earlier dis-
country, Registered Apprenticeships, pre-ap- ticeship, youth apprenticeship, and posed of. Amendments en bloc shall be
prenticeships, and youth apprenticeships are preapprenticeship positions over the next five considered as read, shall be debatable
helping workers, particularly those with bar- years. I thank Chairman SCOTT and Chair for 20 minutes equally divided and con-
riers to employment, access meaningful em- DAVIS for their leadership, and I urge all of my trolled by the chair and ranking minor-
ployment. This is even more important at a colleagues to support this bill. ity member of the Committee on Edu-
time when hundreds of thousands of people Mr. WALBERG. Mr Speaker, I rise in oppo- cation and Labor or their respective
are out of a job because of the economic con- sition to H.R. 8294, the National Apprentice- designees, shall not be subject to
sequences of the coronavirus pandemic. Addi- ship Act. This bill, while well intentioned, fails amendment, and shall not be subject to
tionally, significant sectors of our economy are to deliver on the goal of strengthening our reg- a demand for division of the question.
on the brink of transformation as the future of istered apprenticeship system and expanding AMENDMENTS EN BLOC NO. 1 OFFERED BY MR.
work evolves. earn-and-learn opportunities for Americans SCOTT OF VIRGINIA
Recently I held a virtual roundtable discus- across the nation. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Pursuant to
sion with apprentices, pre-apprentices, and Our country’s workforce is facing a unique section 3 of House Resolution 1224, I
union leaders from across Northwest Oregon. crisis, and we must ensure that our appren- rise to offer amendments en bloc No. 1.
I heard from apprentices like Melissa who said ticeship system is up to the task to meet the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
that joining the Boilermakers Local 242 ap- needs of our evolving workforce. For instance, Clerk will designate the amendments
prenticeship was a ‘‘life-changing decision.’’ the COVID–19 crisis has highlighted that en bloc.
And Lacy who said, ‘‘I don’t know where I connectivity and the digital world are an inte- Amendments en bloc No. 1 consisting
would be or what I would be doing’’ without gral part of our daily lives. Developing a high- of amendment Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11,
her apprenticeship with Laborers Local 737, skilled workforce is critical as we seek to ex- 12, 13, 14, and 16, printed in part B of
because it ‘‘made it possible to pay my bills pand technologies like broadband and 5G to House Report 116–593, offered by Mr.
and feed my kid.’’ By supporting the National underserved areas across the country, includ- SCOTT of Virginia:
Apprenticeship Act, we can strengthen invest- ing my district in Michigan. AMENDMENT 1 OFFERED BY MR. BEYER OF
ments in Registered Apprenticeships and help Winning the global race to 5G will have a VIRGINIA
workers like Melissa and Lacy gain the skills lasting economic benefit to the United States. Page 94, strike lines 15 through 18 and in-
and support services they need to be able to In fact, 5G will create 3 million jobs and con- sert the following:
provide for themselves and their families. ‘‘(3) The program provides—
tribute $500 billion to the U.S. economy over
Last month, I visited with apprentices at ‘‘(A) all individuals with an equal oppor-
the next five years. However, as wireless tech- tunity to participate in the program as de-
IBEW Local 48 in Portland, Oregon. Through nology evolves, the workforce needs to evolve scribed in subparagraphs (B) and (C) of sec-
a partnership with the National Electrical Con- along with it. Unless the U.S. has a large tion 111(b)(7); and
tractors Association, IBEW’s electrical appren- enough and properly trained workforce, we will ‘‘(B) materials that conform with accessi-
ticeship program demonstrates how our transi- not be able to fully reap the economic and bility standards under section 508 of the Re-
tion to a clean energy economy provides an technological benefits of 5G. habilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d), such
extraordinary opportunity to create good-pay- Apprenticeships are a proven solution for as materials that conform with the most re-
ing jobs. Earlier this year, I joined my col- meeting workforce needs, especially in wire- cent Web Content Accessibility Guidelines.’’
Page 85, line 9, strike ‘‘and’’.
leagues on the Select Committee on the Cli- less technologies. They provide the in-the-field Page 85, line 12, strike the period and in-
mate Crisis in releasing a bold, comprehen- experience and the necessary classroom in- sert ‘‘; and’’.
sive, science-based Climate Action Plan, struction to build these advanced wireless net- Page 85, after line 12, insert the following:
which emphasizes the need to reauthorize the works. Congress and the Department of Labor ‘‘(v) where appropriate and to the extent
National Apprenticeship Act as part of sup- should be laser focused on encouraging and practicable, incorporate the principles of
porting the increasing demand for skilled work- incentivizing apprenticeship for 5G and ad- universal design for learning under section
ers in the clean energy sector. Efforts at the 103 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
vanced wireless deployment. Unfortunately, U.S.C. 1003).’’
NECA/IBEW Local 48 Electrical Apprentice- the bill we are considering would hinder the Page 115, beginning on line 9, strike ‘‘non-
ship Training Program provide an excellent ex- flexibility of employers to create earn-and- traditional’’ and all that follows through
ample of the need to protect and strengthen learn programs to teach job seekers the skills ‘‘participation’’ and insert ‘‘participation of
our Registered Apprenticeship system. they need to build-out and deploy the 5G and nontraditional apprenticeship populations
Industry partnerships can be one helpful tool wireless infrastructure America so desperately and individuals with barriers to employ-
in scaling up Registered Apprenticeships. For needs. ment, including individuals with disabil-
example, the Oregon Manufacturing Innova- For these reasons I must oppose H.R. 8294 ities,’’.
tion Center, or OMIC, is bringing together in- AMENDMENT 2 OFFERED BY MR. BROWN OF
and urge my colleagues to work on a bipar-
MARYLAND
dustry leaders with educational institutions tisan solution that will empower workers and
such as Oregon Institute of Technology, Or- Page 35, after line 19, insert ‘‘(at least 1 of
employers to create apprenticeships that are
which represents a women, minority, or vet-
egon State University, Portland State Univer- responsive to our modern economy. eran-owned business)’’ after ‘‘program’’.
sity, and Portland Community College to de- The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time AMENDMENT 3 OFFERED BY MR. CÁRDENAS OF
velop a Registered Apprenticeship program in for debate has expired. CALIFORNIA
advanced manufacturing. My bipartisan Pro- Each further amendment printed in Page 37, line 11, strike ‘‘an apprentice’’ and
moting Apprenticeships through Regional part B of House Report 116–593 not ear- insert ‘‘a program participant’’.
Training Networks for Employers’ Required lier considered as part of amendments AMENDMENT 4 OFFERED BY MR. CASTRO OF
Skills Act is modeled on the efforts at OMIC en bloc pursuant to section 3 of House TEXAS
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
to help small and medium sized businesses Resolution 1224, shall be considered Page 117, line 19, insert ‘‘media and enter-
develop Registered Apprenticeships. The bill only in the order printed in the report, tainment,’’ after ‘‘healthcare,’’.
supports industry partnerships that bring to- may be offered only by a Member des- AMENDMENT NO. 5 OFFERED BY MR. CROW OF
gether employers, education, training, labor, ignated in the report, shall be consid- COLORADO
and community-based organizations to create ered as read, shall be debatable for the Page 117, line 19, insert ‘‘education,’’ after
paid, on-the-job training programs that meet time specified in the report equally di- ‘‘health care,’’.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:40 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.032 H19NOPT1
H5978 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
Page 118, line 22, insert ‘‘, elementary cludes the reasons for each such disapproval Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of
school, and secondary school’’ after ‘‘child- and provide such list to the Administrator at my time.
hood’’. least annually. Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
AMENDMENT NO. 6 OFFERED BY MR. HORSFORD Page 114, line 21, strike ‘‘and’’ at the end.
Page 115, line 2, insert ‘‘and’’ at the end.
Speaker, I rise in opposition, though I
OF NEVADA am not opposed to the amendment.
Page 115, after line 2, insert the following:
Page 11, beginning on line 7, strike ‘‘con- ‘‘(E) regularly assess the impact of appren- Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to see that
necting’’ and all that follows through ‘‘sys- ticeship programs under the national appren- Representative STEFANIK’s amendment
tem’’ and insert ‘‘supporting the recruit- tice system in effectively increasing the par- was made in order.
ment, retention, and completion of potential ticipation of women, minorities, individuals Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she
program participants, including nontradi- with disabilities, long term unemployed, in- may consume to the gentlewoman from
tional apprenticeship populations and indi- dividuals impacted by the criminal and juve-
viduals with barriers to employment’’.
New York (Ms. STEFANIK).
nile justice system, foster and former foster Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I thank
Page 29, line 2, insert ‘‘national qualified youth, and individuals with barriers to em-
intermediaries, including those supporting Ranking Member FOXX.
ployment; Mr. Speaker, as our Nation recovers
increased participation of nontraditional ap-
AMENDMENT NO. 12 OFFERED BY MR. PAPPAS OF from the economic toll of the COVID
prenticeship populations and nontraditional
NEW HAMPSHIRE
apprenticeship industries or occupations,’’ pandemic and strives to restore the
after ‘‘program participants,’’. Page 41, line 14, strike ‘‘and’’. livelihood of America’s workers, we
Page 37, strike lines 9 and 10, and insert Page 41, line 24, strike the period and in-
sert a ‘‘; and’’.
must take every opportunity to
the following: strengthen the pathways to meaning-
Page 41, after line 24, insert the following:
‘‘(VIII) a national qualified intermediary, ful, family-sustaining careers.
‘‘(5) make recommendations on the devel-
including a national qualified intermediary The apprenticeship model of pro-
opment of demonstrations projects as de-
that supports increased participation of non-
traditional apprenticeship populations and
scribed in section 132(f). viding paid work experience, coupled
Page 116, after line 8, insert the following: with classroom instruction and on-the-
nontraditional apprenticeship industries or ‘‘(f) DEMONSTRATION AUTHORITY.—
occupations; and’’ job mentorship, is a proven approach to
‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary is author-
Page 77, line 13, insert ‘‘including minority equip workers with the skills they need
ized to initiate demonstration projects, sub-
serving institutions,’’ after ‘‘postsecondary ject to the recommendation of two-thirds of for lifelong success.
educational institutions,’’. the voting members of the Advisory Com- Individuals who complete high-qual-
AMENDMENT NO. 10 OFFERED BY MS. MENG OF mittee, such that each demonstration ity apprenticeship programs imme-
NEW YORK project— diately enter into well-paying jobs and
Page 23, line 17, insert before the period ‘‘(A) is limited in size and scope; do so without the debt that often sad-
the following: ‘‘, in user-friendly formats and ‘‘(B) has a duration of no more than 3 dles our younger generation of work-
languages that are easily accessible, as de- years; ers.
termined by the Administrator’’. ‘‘(C) is carried out in nontraditional ap- Despite this track record of success,
Page 38, line 5, strike ‘‘and’’. prenticeship industries or occupations; and apprenticeships remain the pathway to
Page 38, line 6, strike the period and insert ‘‘(D) which may include activities that re- opportunity for far too few. Less than 3
‘‘; and’’. spond to the COVID–19 public health emer-
gency.
percent of the workforce comes up
Page 38, after line 6, insert the following:
‘‘(xi) the Federal Communications Com- ‘‘(2) LIMITATION ON FUNDING.—In initiating through the apprenticeship system,
mission.’’. demonstration projects under subsection (a), and the vast majority of registered ap-
Page 76, line 3, insert before the semicolon the Secretary may not use more than prenticeship programs are con-
the following: ‘‘, and that are in user-friend- $2,000,000 annually from the funding author- centrated in just a handful of indus-
ly formats and languages that are easily ac- ized under section 141(a). tries.
cessible, as determined by the Secretaries’’. AMENDMENT NO. 13 OFFERED BY MR. RYAN OF This stark reality leaves one of the
AMENDMENT NO. 11 OFFERED BY MS. MOORE OF OHIO strongest workforce development strat-
WISCONSIN Page 120, line 7, insert a comma after ‘‘sec- egies vastly underutilized in devel-
Page 22, line 11, insert ‘‘developing the ondary’’. oping talent for the modern economy.
state plan in section 113(c),’’ after ‘‘includ- Page 120, line 8— In order to achieve our common goal of
ing’’. (1) strike ‘‘and’’; and
expanding apprenticeships to a more
Page 22, line 12, insert a comma after ‘‘sub- (2) insert ‘‘, and adult’’ after ‘‘postsec-
ondary’’. expansive set of occupations, we must
title B’’.
AMENDMENT NO. 14 OFFERED BY MR. SMITH OF
develop a system that is responsive to
Page 29, after line 24, insert the following:
‘‘(E) NONTRADITIONAL APPRENTICESHIP POP- WASHINGTON the demands of the 21st century work-
ULATIONS.—The Administrator shall regu- Page 141, line 24, strike ‘‘or’’. place and accessible to employers in
larly evaluate the participation of the non- Page 141, after line 24, insert the following: emerging industry sectors.
traditional apprenticeship populations for ‘‘(viii) providing stipends to pre-appren- Mr. Speaker, my amendment offers a
each of the approved apprenticeable occupa- tices enrolled in a pre-apprenticeship pro- simple step in the right direction: re-
tions, such as women, minorities, long-term gram to cover costs such as housing, trans- moving a barrier for employers who
unemployed, individuals with a disability, portation, childcare or out of pocket ex- seek more freedom to design a program
individuals with substance abuse issues, vet- penses resulting from the pre-apprenticeship that fits their unique needs.
erans, military spouses, individuals experi- program such as assessments and fees for in- For the nontraditional occupations
encing homelessness, individuals impacted dustry-recognized credentials or drivers li-
by the criminal or juvenile justice system,
and sectors, the mandated minimum of
censes during the time of enrollment; or’’.
and foster and former foster youth. Page 142, line 1, strike ‘‘(viii)’’ and insert 2,000 hours of on-the-job learning may
Page 30, line 10, strike ‘‘and’’ at the end. ‘‘(ix)’’. not fit the nature of the job and thus
Page 30, line 12, strike the period at the AMENDMENT NO. 16 OFFERED BY MS. STEFANIK prevent interested employers from ever
end and insert ‘‘; and’’. OF NEW YORK developing an apprenticeship program.
Page 30, after line 12, insert the following: Page 86, beginning line 12, strike ‘‘Sec- While H.R. 8294 provides a process for
‘‘(D) require regular reports on the per- retary and’’. these employers to pursue an alter-
formance of state agencies, including on ef-
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- native time-based model that fits their
forts state agencies make to increase em-
ployer awareness of apprenticeship programs ant to House Resolution 1224, the gen- industry, the legislation requires ap-
for employers who have not participated. tleman from Virginia (Mr. SCOTT) and proval from both the State registration
Page 31, line 20, insert ‘‘low-income par- the gentlewoman from North Carolina agency and the Secretary of Labor.
ticipants in related federal programs,’’ after (Ms. FOXX) each will control 10 min- A State apprenticeship agency seek-
‘‘disabilities’’. utes. ing to foster the growth of apprentice-
Page 32, line 15, strike the period at the The Chair recognizes the gentleman ships in their State could grant ap-
end and insert ‘‘, to better promote partici- from Virginia. proval to an innovative model only to
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
pation in the national apprenticeship pro- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, have these efforts stifled by Depart-
gram.’’.
these amendments generally ensure ac- ment officials in Washington. The bu-
Page 104, after line 15, insert the following:
‘‘ and’’ cessibility for those with disabilities, reaucratic nature of this process may
‘‘(D) LIST OF DISAPPROVED PROGRAMS.—The increase equity, and increase opportu- discourage employers from even at-
registration agency shall maintain a list of nities. They are not controversial, and tempting to use this flexibility in the
programs that were disapproved which in- I would hope they would be accepted. first place.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:40 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19NO7.023 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5979
My amendment removes the Depart- portunities to provide apprenticeships through pre-apprenticeship and registered
ment of Labor from the process and to women of color throughout southern apprenticeships to more than 1,200 African
leaves it solely at the discretion of Nevada. The opportunities presented American and other nontraditional popu-
lations.
States to approve alternative program by women like Evelyn matter because The National Urban League urges you to
models, empowering workforce leaders 94 percent of apprentices who complete support the National Registered Apprentice-
across the country to inject needed dy- an apprenticeship program retain em- ship Act and accompanying equity amend-
namism in the age-old system. ployment with an average annual sal- ments to ensure nontraditional populations
Yet, this amendment alone cannot ary of $70,000. have access to the support they need to
atone for the countless missed opportu- Mr. Speaker, it is no secret that this thrive and businesses have the skilled work-
nities to incorporate additional Repub- pandemic has disproportionately im- force they need to succeed in this uncertain
lican amendments, amendments that pacted workers of color, particularly economy.
women of color, who have shouldered Sincerely,
would have allowed innovation to MARC H. MORIAL,
thrive while still upholding the safety the greatest job losses due to their con- President and CEO,
and accountability standards necessary centration in low-wage service indus- National Urban League.
to underpin the taxpayers’ investment tries that have been hardest hit by the
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
in apprenticeship programs. economic downturn.
Speaker, Representative STEFANIK’s
Revitalizing economic opportunity That is why we must do everything
amendment is a valuable change that
for America’s workers and small busi- in our power to ensure that we have eq-
would make it easier for programs of
nesses will require a robust pipeline of uity and fairness in our national ap-
shorter length to be approved specifi-
earn-and-learn models that can serve prenticeship system so that every per-
cally in fields where apprenticeships
an ever more diverse group of job seek- son can have access and support for
have not traditionally seen growth or
ers, and I believe more work must be desperately needed job training.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- expansion.
done before this legislation can truly While most of the other amendments
fulfill that promise. leagues to vote in favor of my amend-
in this en bloc are unobjectionable, I do
Mr. Speaker, as we stand here in the ment, and I support the passage of H.R.
want to highlight three amendments
final weeks of the 116th Congress and 8294.
Mr. Speaker, I include in the CON- where I have concerns.
recognize that we will be back at this The amendment offered by Rep-
issue next year, I wholeheartedly be- GRESSIONAL RECORD a letter from the
National Urban League supporting my resentatives BEYER and PRESSLEY is
lieve that we can reestablish the bipar- mostly unobjectionable. We certainly
tisan spirit that has been a hallmark of amendment and the National Appren-
share the majority’s intent in ensuring
our efforts on workforce development. ticeship Act of 2020.
access to apprenticeships for people
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle- NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE,
with disabilities. However, it also in-
woman from California (Mrs. DAVIS) for November 19, 2020.
DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the cludes a provision that would actually
her passion and commitment on this hold apprenticeship program sponsors
National Urban League and its 90 affiliates
important issue and for her leadership located in 36 states and the District of Co- to a higher standard than the standard
on the Higher Education and Work- lumbia, I urge you to vote ‘‘Yes’’ on the Na- to which section 508 of the Rehabilita-
force Investment Subcommittee as tional Registered Apprenticeship Act (NAA) tion Act of 1973 currently holds Federal
well as her leadership on the House and associated equity amendments, includ- agencies, which are the target of that
Armed Services. I serve with Mrs. ing those put forth by Representatives
particular provision.
DAVIS on two committees. She will be Brown, Horsford, Moore, Ryan/Rice and
Smith/Langevin.
While this was likely well inten-
deeply missed. tioned, the underlying bill already pro-
The COVID–19 pandemic has shuttered
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to businesses all across America, leaving mil- hibits discrimination on the basis of
support this amendment. lions of workers unemployed and devasting disability and requires program spon-
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, our national economy. Research shows that sors to provide accommodations for in-
I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman Black and Latino workers are more likely to dividuals with disabilities, so holding
from Nevada (Mr. HORSFORD), who ac- be working in hard-hit industries that may small business and other employers
tually ran a program in Nevada to in- never bounce back. The NAA represents an
who are seeking to expand opportuni-
crease job skills. important step towards stemming that job
loss by creating one million new apprentice- ties for individuals with disabilities to
Mr. HORSFORD. Mr. Speaker, I a higher standard than we hold our-
ship opportunities over the next five years,
thank Chairman SCOTT from Virginia selves in the Federal Government is a
in addition to the opportunities that are al-
for his kind words and leadership, and ready being created. These apprenticeships guaranteed way to ensure fewer ap-
I want to commend Congresswoman result in substantially higher earnings com- prenticeship opportunities rather than
SUSAN DAVIS from California for lead- pared to nonparticipants. By some accounts, more.
ing on this important issue. the average starting salary of an apprentice
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support is $70,000, a family-sustaining middle-class b 1630
of H.R. 8294, the National Apprentice- income. Another amendment concealed with-
ship Act, and to urge my colleagues to Yet, more work is needed to ensure equi- in the en bloc is offered by Representa-
table access to apprenticeship opportunities
support my amendment, which would to nontraditional populations, including peo-
tive MOORE, which will lead to exces-
ensure equity and fairness in our na- ple of color and women, as apprenticeship sive paperwork and little real out-
tional apprenticeship system. programs are often less diverse than the oc- comes for low-income individuals or in-
Specifically, my amendment would cupations they ultimately serve. According dividuals with barriers to employment.
support the recruitment, retention, to the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Equal Finally, the amendment offered by
and completion of nontraditional ap- Employment Opportunity study, African Representative HORSFORD claims to en-
prenticeship populations, including Americans represented only 10% of reg- sure equity and opportunity in the ap-
women, people of color, and individuals istered apprentices and are the most under- prenticeship system. In reality, I am
paid compared to other ethnic groups. Across
with barriers to employment. afraid it may cause confusion at best.
25 states in which DOL tracks registered ap-
Now more than ever, in response to prenticeships, the data show the opportuni- The amendment would add new criteria
the economic challenges posed by ties are dominated by white men. to the definition of ‘‘national qualified
COVID–19, people need access to oppor- The National Urban League has worked to intermediaries,’’ requiring them to
tunities in apprenticeships. This is es- advance economic opportunity for African support the increased participation of
pecially true for my constituents Americans and other underserved commu- nontraditional apprenticeship popu-
throughout Nevada, which has been nities for more than 110 years. Our job train- lations and nontraditional apprentice-
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
one of the hardest hit economic regions ing programs target workers with multiple
ship industries or occupations.
barriers to employment to help them secure
in the country. Even if they wanted to, some na-
full-time jobs and career advancement op-
My amendment would ensure that portunities. Through DOL’s Equity in Ap- tional qualified intermediaries may
women like Evelyn Pacheco, who is the prenticeship program, the National Urban not be in a position to do this, either
founder and president of Nevada League and eleven affiliates have increased because of their location or the nature
Women in Trades, continue to have op- opportunities in nontraditional fields of their program.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:26 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.057 H19NOPT1
H5980 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
If there is an opportunity in the new Ms. MOORE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong growth in the apprenticeship system. But it’s
Congress to resume bipartisan con- support of H.R. 8294, the National Apprentice- not enough just to increase the number of op-
versations on reauthorization of the ship Act of 2020. portunities. We must expand access to the op-
National Apprenticeship Act, I wel- The programs being addressed in this bill portunities.
come the chance to discuss what the support on the job training, mentoring, and Truly expanding access to these opportuni-
intent is here and to seek out common other assistance to help individuals gain em- ties for all, including women, minorities, and
ground. In fact, I hope the new Con- ployment and build careers in high paying other underrepresented and nontraditional
gress brings about true bipartisan work and/or high skilled occupations. Registered populations, will benefit not only the workers
from my colleagues. Apprenticeships are our nation’s most suc- who we connect to stable, good-paying jobs
While these three specific amend- cessful federal workforce training program. Ac- but also their communities.
ments cause me concern, on balance, cording to the DOL, 94 percent apprentices I urge my colleagues to support this en bloc
this en bloc consideration is worthy of are employed after completing a Registered and the underlying bill.
support even if it won’t ultimately re- Apprenticeship and earn an average starting The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
deem the underlying bill. wage of $70,000. That success is to be ap- ant to House Resolution 1224, the pre-
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of plauded. vious question is ordered on the
my time. Yet, this powerful tool can be improved. Just amendments en bloc offered by the
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, consider these two facts: Registered Appren- gentleman from Virginia (Mr. SCOTT).
I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from ticeships only account for 0.3 percent of our The question is on the amendments
Virginia (Mr. BEYER), the chair of the workforce and nearly two-thirds of active ap- en bloc.
Joint Economic Committee. prentices are employed in just one industry, The en bloc amendments were agreed
Mr. BEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in construction. It’s long past time we bring these to.
support of my amendment with Rep- federal efforts into the 21st Century and ex- A motion to reconsider was laid on
resentative AYANNA PRESSLEY. This panding access to apprenticeship opportuni- the table.
amendment works to ensure that peo- ties is now especially important as we work to AMENDMENTS EN BLOC NO. 2 OFFERED BY MR.
SCOTT OF VIRGINIA
ple with disabilities are able to access build back our economy from the lasting ef-
registered apprenticeships on an equal fects of the COVID–19 pandemic. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
basis with their nondisabled peers. Key provisions to me in this bill are the calls pursuant to section 3 of House Resolu-
Three cogent facts: The workforce to strengthen equity and promote equal oppor- tion 1224, I rise to offer amendments en
participation rate for people with dis- tunity to participate in youth apprenticeships, bloc No. 2.
abilities is still less than one-third pre-apprenticeships, and apprenticeships, es- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
that of nondisabled peers; number two, pecially for nontraditional apprenticeship popu- Clerk will designate the amendments
among people with disabilities actively lations. Who are they? These are individuals en bloc.
Amendments en bloc No. 2 consisting
seeking work, the unemployment rate who have traditionally faced barriers to ac-
of amendment Nos. 7, 8, and 17, printed
is twice that of nondisabled workers; cessing these opportunities, including low-in-
in part B of House Report 116–593, of-
and number three, people with disabil- come individuals, those with disabilities, foster
fered by Mr. SCOTT of Virginia:
ities are less likely to have meaningful youth and former foster youth, and the for-
AMENDMENT NO. 7 OFFERED BY MR. KILMER OF
access to participate in apprenticeship merly incarcerated, among others.
WASHINGTON
programs. I don’t have to tell you that low-income
Page 117, line 18, insert ‘‘computer
This amendment ensures that indi- workers frequently face barriers . . . as do
science,’’ after ‘‘technology,’’.
viduals with disabilities will be able to those who were previously or recently incar-
AMENDMENT NO. 8 OFFERED BY MR. LAMB OF
access apprenticeship programs that cerated. But we might remind ourselves ‘‘[a] PENNSYLVANIA
will help them develop the skills and history of incarceration does not disqualify a Page 12, line 9, strike ‘‘or’’.
build a work history that will open person’s skills, initiative, or humanity.’’ Thanks Page 12, line 10, insert ‘‘or veterans-service
doors to their future. to Chairman SCOTT and the sponsor of this organizations,’’ after ‘‘partners,’’.
This can also help employers under- legislation, Chairwoman SUSAN DAVIS, among Page 21, line 9, insert ‘‘veterans-service or-
stand the value of this workforce and others for their efforts that have resulted in the ganizations,’’ after ‘‘facilities,’’
legislation before us today. Page 107, line 21, insert ‘‘veteran status,’’
learn from experience that accommo-
after ‘‘age,’’
dating a disabled employee is usually a It recognizes that we need to keep working
AMENDMENT NO. 17 OFFERED BY MS. TITUS OF
simple, inexpensive process that bene- to ensure equal opportunity for all to partici-
NEVADA
fits the employee, the employer, and, pate in these programs. Pre-apprenticeships
Page 117, line 19, insert ‘‘hospitality and
ultimately, all of us who benefit from and apprenticeships are key gateways to po- tourism,’’ after ‘‘health care,’’.
having an engaged and diverse work- tentially good paying careers. It’s critical that The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
force. we work to ensure that populations that have ant to House Resolution 1224, the gen-
I thank Representative SUSAN DAVIS barriers to entry into these programs and are tleman from Virginia (Mr. SCOTT) and
for this bill and the leadership of our underrepresented. Inclusive workforce devel- the gentlewoman from North Carolina
chairman, BOBBY SCOTT. opment practices will help us achieve a more (Ms. FOXX) each will control 10 min-
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. diverse workforce that leverages each individ- utes.
Speaker, I reserve the balance of my ual’s talents, skills and abilities to determine The Chair recognizes the gentleman
time. their success, rather than the barriers they from Virginia.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, may face. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
as I indicated—and several have spoken My amendment, which is included in this en I yield myself such time as I may con-
on their amendments—I would hope bloc, builds on the base bill to ensure we do sume.
that we would adopt the amendment en not forget populations that have traditionally These are expected to be non-
bloc, and I yield back the balance of been underrepresented in these programs. controversial. The amendments gen-
my time. This includes requiring regular reviews by the erally expand the industries to be af-
Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr. federal government of participation by non- fected by the opportunities for appren-
Speaker, I yield myself the balance of traditional populations in these programs and ticeships and adds veterans service or-
my time. assessing how these programs increase par- ganizations as partner organizations.
Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate that ticipation of these populations, especially in I hope that we would adopt these, and
we aren’t here debating a bloc of occupations where we know that their involve- I reserve the balance of my time.
amendments that will work to address ment is underrepresented. My amendment Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Mr.
the failings of the underlying bill. would also ensure that federal coordination Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
I am pleased to see at least one among a host of programs serving low-income may consume.
amendment in this group will help individuals helps to promote their participation Mr. Speaker, this en bloc incor-
bring some flexibility to States. in the efforts supported by this bill. porates three amendments to the un-
I urge support of the en bloc consid- It is estimated that the efforts in this bill derlying bill that would enhance oppor-
eration of these amendments, and I could create nearly 1 million new apprentice- tunities in the registered apprentice-
yield back the balance of my time. ship opportunities in addition to expected ship system.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:26 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.060 H19NOPT1
November 19, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5981
The amendment offered by Mr. KIL- amendments ensure the 21st Century ment. I thank Representative SUSAN
MER of Washington and Mr. Grant program expands opportunities DAVIS from California for her leader-
FITZPATRICK of Pennsylvania amends in promising sectors and that the reg- ship on this issue, and I encourage my
the grant program within the under- istered apprenticeship system engages colleagues to vote ‘‘yes’’ on this pack-
lying bill to promote offerings for com- veterans. age and ‘‘yes’’ on this bill.
puter science programs. I support these amendments, encour- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
Modernizing the 80-year-old National age my colleagues to do the same, and I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman
Apprenticeship Act ought to include I yield back the balance of my time. from Pennsylvania (Mr. LAMB).
apprenticeship opportunities within a Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Mr. LAMB. Mr. Speaker, for the last
variety of sectors. Far too often, soci- I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from 21⁄2 years, I have been a member of the
ety paints apprenticeships as only ap- Washington (Mr. KILMER). House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs;
plying to the ‘‘trades.’’ While there are Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise and during that time, one of the things
certainly valuable pathways within today in support of this package of en I have seen is the way that our vet-
those fields, we need to expand the ho- bloc amendments, which includes a bi- erans service organizations, particu-
rizons of what apprenticeships are ca- partisan amendment I offered along larly the American Legion, the VFW,
pable of providing for workers. This is with my good friend and colleague the Vietnam Veterans of America, but
also why I think it is important to call from Pennsylvania, Representative several others, too, play an essential
these ‘‘professions’’ rather than the FITZPATRICK, to expand access to com- role in connecting all of the good
‘‘trades.’’ A broader policy should not puter science youth apprenticeship pro- things that we are trying to do with
be limited by how it has traditionally grams that are critical to the 21st cen- government programs with the people
been viewed or how we speak about it. tury workforce. who actually need to benefit from them
Computer science is a high-growth We know education is the door to and take advantage of them.
and promising career path leading to economic opportunities, and one of the So often in government, we have a
in-demand lucrative jobs for workers. most American and foundational paths hard time getting our ideas and our so-
We hear too often that students are to high-quality, work-based learning lutions beyond the walls of the Federal
graduating without the technical skills and education are apprenticeship pro- office building and into the commu-
they need to be successful in today’s grams. nities and streets and homes where we
workforce. This amendment would sup- In today’s changing economy, it is want them to be, and these organiza-
port employers in recruiting and devel- important to continue to find ways to tions are very, very good at doing that.
oping new employees with the com- prepare our kids for the jobs of the fu- So I want to thank my colleague, Re-
puter science competencies they need ture: jobs in advanced manufacturing, publican Representative VAN TAYLOR
to make up for these deficits and help healthcare, technology, green jobs, from Texas, for partnering with me on
fill a widening skills gap. and, yes, computer science. these amendments to bring in these
Similarly, the amendment offered by According to Code.org, across 24 veterans service organizations as part
Ms. TITUS of Nevada and cosponsored States, only 35 percent of high schools of signing people up and enrolling them
by several Members on both sides of in the U.S. teach computer science. in apprenticeship programs so that the
the aisle adds hospitality and tourism That same study found that Black and veterans who are out there who are
to the list of nontraditional appren- Hispanic students, students receiving most in need of up-skilling or creating
ticeship industries that are eligible for free and reduced lunch, and students a new career path can actually find out
grants under this act. from rural areas are less likely to at- about these opportunities and take ad-
If this grant program is to live up to tend a school that provides access to vantage of them.
its name and reflect the economy of this critical subject. There is probably no one in America
the 21st century, we must break free Not everyone is going to have a tech- more qualified and a better bet for this
from antiquated, narrow ideas of ap- related job, but we know that there is investment than a veteran. On-the-job
prenticeships and bring more opportu- a growing demand—a demand that we training is what we do. These people
nities to promising sectors. The hospi- are struggling to meet—for students have the patience and discipline to
tality and tourism industries are a able to fill these in-demand jobs and complete these programs and make our
prime example of areas in which stu- for equipping workers with advanced entire workforce stronger and better
dents would benefit from more on-the- computer science skills. off, and I know that the veterans serv-
job learning experiences and employer- To prepare students to be successful ice organizations will help us get there.
led instruction than they would from a and innovative in the workforce, the Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker,
traditional college education. Federal Government needs to expand I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman
Finally, the amendment offered by computer science education and path- from the Northern Mariana Islands
Mr. LAMB of Pennsylvania and Mr. ways to more students. That is why my (Mr. SABLAN).
TAYLOR of Texas includes veterans amendment would ensure that com- Mr. SABLAN. Mr. Speaker, the Titus
service organizations in several key puter science youth apprenticeship, amendment is simple. It includes hos-
places. Specifying VSOs as partner or- pre-apprenticeship, and apprenticeship pitality and tourism as an eligible in-
ganizations for involvement in the reg- programs are prioritized. dustry for expansion of registered ap-
istered apprenticeship system ensures The SPEAKER pro tempore. The prenticeship opportunities.
the needs of veterans will be considered time of the gentleman has expired. The hospitality and tourism industry
and incorporated into apprenticeship Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, is a major source for the Marianas. The
programs. I yield an additional 1 minute to the GAO’s February 2020 report on Eco-
The amendment also highlights the gentleman from Washington (Mr. KIL- nomic and Workforce Trends in the
VSOs as entities that should be con- MER). Marianas found that hospitality and
tacted for promoting and raising Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, it would tourism account for 45 percent of GDP.
awareness about apprenticeship oppor- provide priority for funding through We are not unique. The industry is
tunities, making sure our veterans this historic National Apprenticeship critical to many communities across
have full access to and information Act of 2020. the Nation, but it is considered a non-
about apprenticeship opportunities. Growing the number of computer traditional industry for apprentice-
Because apprenticeships recognize science programs for students in high ships and has been unable to take full
and build on prior knowledge and school and beyond will provide more advantage of the apprenticeship sys-
skills, veterans stand to benefit greatly 21st century job opportunities for our tem. The Titus amendment fixes that.
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
from these opportunities and should be kids, more high-skilled and qualified As I stated earlier, for 83 years, the
engaged in the system as much as pos- employees for our employers, and more National Apprenticeship Act has
sible. economic resiliency for our commu- helped local economies grow by pro-
We want apprenticeships to support nities. viding career opportunities to young
all workers seeking to access and en- I thank the chairman for his support people. The Titus amendment guaran-
hance career opportunities. These of this simple, yet important, amend- tees that H.R. 8294 will build on that
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:40 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.062 H19NOPT1
H5982 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 19, 2020
success by ensuring that the appren- b 1645 Raised in Pennsylvania, Lester was
ticeship system is modernized to ad- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, drafted into the Army in 1941. In fact,
dress the workforce needs of the 21st I support the three amendments en his draft number in the lottery was
century. bloc. I urge my colleagues to support lucky number 1. Making the rank of
I support the Titus amendment and the legislation, along with these three staff sergeant, Lester was sent to the
urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘yes.’’ amendments. South Pacific and faced many of the
I also am grateful that the ranking Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance challenges of serving in World War II.
member is supportive of the Titus of my time. He fought for 4 years on close to 10 is-
amendment. I thank everyone for their The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- lands in the Pacific, during which time
consideration, and I wish everyone a ant to House Resolution 1224, the pre- he turned down a battlefield commis-
happy Thanksgiving, a Merry Christ- vious question is ordered on the sion to become an officer. He was shot
mas, and a Happy New Year. amendments en bloc offered by the in the back by a sniper, and he was
gentleman from Virginia (Mr. SCOTT). even stung by a scorpion.
Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD
a letter from the American Hotel and The question is on the amendments Although Lester was the recipient of
Lodging Association. en bloc. the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, his
AMERICAN HOTEL & LODGING The en bloc amendments were agreed daughter, Kay, told us that he never
ASSOCIATION, to. liked discussing the war because, when
November 18, 2020. A motion to reconsider was laid on he did, the unemotional Lester would
Hon. NANCY PELOSI, the table. be brought to tears by the memory of
Speaker of the House, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- two men who died on a mission that he
House of Representatives, Washington, DC. ant to clause 1(c) of rule XIX, further led.
Hon. KEVIN MCCARTHY, consideration of H.R. 8294 is postponed.
Republican Leader,
After serving, Lester moved to Sil-
House of Representatives, Washington, DC. f icon Valley, where he worked for Lock-
DEAR SPEAKER PELOSI AND LEADER MCCAR- TRIBUTE TO MARK ANTHONY heed and developed glue for the Space
THY: On behalf of the American Hotel & BROWN Shuttle. He then retired to the Central
Lodging Association (AHLA), the sole na- Coast with his family.
(Ms. SLOTKIN asked and was given
tional association representing all segments Madam Speaker, some say Lester was
of the U.S. lodging industry, including iconic permission to address the House for 1
lucky; I say that we are all lucky to
global brands, hotel owners and franchisees, minute.)
call Lester an American.
lodging real estate investment trusts Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise
(REITs), hotel management companies, inde- today to remember a lifelong servant
f
pendent properties, bed and breakfasts, state of the Lansing community, Mr. Mark
hotel associations, and industry suppliers, I Anthony Brown, who passed away No-
write in support of H.R. 8294, National Ap- vember 9. I had the honor of knowing ADDING COUNTIES TO THE SOUTH-
prenticeship Act of 2020. This important leg- WEST BORDER REGIONAL COM-
him and to have learned much from
islation would expand the national appren- MISSION
ticeship system to include nontraditional ap- him.
prenticeship industries and create a grant Born and raised in Lansing, and de- (Mr. COX of California asked and was
program to support registered apprentice- voted to Lansing until his final days, given permission to address the House
ship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth appren- he lived with relentless desire to im- for 1 minute and to revise and extend
ticeship programs. AHLA also strongly sup- prove himself and those around him. his remarks.)
ports the bipartisan amendment offered by He was an integral part of many Lan-
Representatives Dina Titus (NV–1) and Gus
Mr. COX of California. Madam
sing organizations, from the local Speaker, I rise today to introduce a bill
Bilirakis (FL–12) that would specifically branch of the NAACP to the Mayor’s
identify the hospitality and tourism indus- that would add the counties in my Con-
tries as a nontraditional apprenticeship in-
Diversity Inclusion Advisory Board. In gressional District—Fresno, Kern,
dustry under Sec. 201 of the Act. every endeavor, he was dedicated to Kings, and Tulare—to the Southwest
Prior to the pandemic, filling service posi-
making sure that underrepresented Border Regional Commission.
tions was one of the hospitality industry’s voices were heard when decisions were Modeled after the Appalachian Re-
most significant challenges. According to made. gional Commission, the Southwest Bor-
the Department of Labor (DOL), it was esti- Mr. Brown was a man who was loved
der Regional Commission, or SBRC,
mated that nearly one million job vacancies deeply. Guided by faith, with his fam-
remained unfilled. In order to meet the needs
was established to promote economic
ily as his north star, he never stopped
of the industry, AHLA and the AHLA Foun- growth to help distressed regions that
working for his community. Above all,
dation, the charitable giving arm of the asso- have historically been left behind at-
Mr. Brown believed in the power of
ciation, are developing innovative programs tain socioeconomic parity with the rest
genuine connections across race, creed,
that invest in our workforce and are de- of the Nation.
signed to open opportunities for underprivi- background, and belief. He was a uni-
The Central Valley is one such region
leged communities, build careers, and fier who brought people together to
plagued by economic disparities, yet it
strengthen the lodging industry. The Na- better Lansing, and I will be forever
is not part of any Federal regional
tional Apprenticeship Act of 2020 would en- grateful to him.
able our Foundation to achieve this mission Today, I am thinking of those closest commission. This must change. That is
through grant programs specifically targeted to him: His mother, his brothers and why I am here.
to our industry. Additionally, the legislation sisters, his aunts and uncles, and his My district continues to be in deep
updates the National Apprenticeship Act to need of economic development and
four children.
provide the flexibility we need to reflect Federal investment. Unemployment in
modem practices while maintaining the high I speak these words today so that his
legacy is forever remembered in the the region is consistently higher, and
standards set forth by DOL.
permanent RECORD of the people’s education attainment consistently
On behalf of the more than 33,000 small lower than any other region in Cali-
business hotels, which represents over half of House, letting all who read it know:
hotels in the country, and the millions of as- Mark Brown made a difference. fornia.
sociates they employ, I urge the House of f The need for more Federal invest-
Representatives to swiftly pass H.R. 8294 and ment is critical now more than ever be-
provide nontraditional apprenticeship indus- HONORING LESTER SHOFF cause of the COVID–19 pandemic and
tries, like the hospitality and tourism sec- (Mr. PANETTA asked and was given recession. Adding these counties and
tors, an avenue to continue to grow our permission to address the House for 1 funding the SBRC will jump-start com-
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE
workforce and support our communities. minute and to revise and extend his re- munities and small businesses, helping
Thank you for your consideration of this
marks.) America ‘‘Build Back Better’’ while
critical matter.
Sincerely, Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise generating new economic opportunities
BRIAN CRAWFORD, today to honor an amazing constituent for hardworking people who are wait-
Executive Vice President, and patriot from the Central Coast of ing for their chance of achieving the
Government Affairs. California, Lester Shoff. America Dream.
VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:40 Nov 20, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19NO7.063 H19NOPT1
File and source
- File
- CREC_crec-2020-11-19_crec-2020-11-19-pt1-pgh5950-3.pdf
- Size
- 465,621 bytes
- SHA-256
- 0bb359ab95d1a43b7436b592b95a7626ef81db87247db384238ac8e54b625c48
- Original
- www.govinfo.gov