[Congressional Bills 118th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. 2122 Introduced in Senate (IS)]
<DOC>
118th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. 2122
To amend the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly referred to as the
``National Apprenticeship Act''), to expand the national apprenticeship
system to include apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships, and pre-
apprenticeships registered under such Act and to promote the
furtherance of labor standards necessary to safeguard the welfare of
apprentices, and for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
June 22, 2023
Ms. Baldwin (for herself and Ms. Murkowski) introduced the following
bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To amend the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly referred to as the
``National Apprenticeship Act''), to expand the national apprenticeship
system to include apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships, and pre-
apprenticeships registered under such Act and to promote the
furtherance of labor standards necessary to safeguard the welfare of
apprentices, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Apprenticeship Act of
2023''.
SEC. 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Act, and the amendments made by this Act, shall take effect
beginning on October 1, 2024.
SEC. 3. AMENDMENT.
The Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly referred to as the ``National
Apprenticeship Act''; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 et seq.),
is amended to read as follows:
``SEC. 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
``(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the `National
Apprenticeship Act'.
``(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
follows:
``Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
``Sec. 2. Definitions.
``Sec. 3. Programs under the national apprenticeship system.
``Sec. 4. Transition provisions.
``Sec. 5. Disaggregation of data.
``Sec. 6. Relation to other laws.
``TITLE I--PROMOTING PROGRAMS UNDER THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM
``Subtitle A--The Office of Apprenticeship, State Registration Agency
Approval Process, and Interagency Agreement
``Sec. 111. The Office of Apprenticeship.
``Sec. 112. National Advisory Committee on Apprenticeships.
``Sec. 113. State apprenticeship agencies and State Offices of
Apprenticeship.
``Sec. 114. Interagency agreement with Department of Education.
``Subtitle B--Process and Standards for the National Apprenticeship
System
``Sec. 121. Occupations suitable for apprenticeship.
``Sec. 122. Quality standards of programs under the national
apprenticeship system.
``Sec. 123. Apprenticeship agreements.
``Sec. 124. Registration of programs under the national apprenticeship
system.
``Subtitle C--Evaluations and Research
``Sec. 131. Program evaluations.
``Sec. 132. National apprenticeship system research.
``Subtitle D--General Provisions
``Sec. 141. Authorization of appropriations.
``TITLE II--MODERNIZING THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM FOR THE 21ST
CENTURY
``Sec. 201. Award requirements.
``Sec. 202. Uses of funds.
``Sec. 203. Evaluations of activities.
``Sec. 204. Authorization of appropriations.
``Sec. 205. Definitions.
``SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
``In this Act:
``(1) Administrator.--The term `Administrator' means the
Administrator of the Office of Apprenticeship established under
section 111(a).
``(2) Advisory committee.--The term `Advisory Committee'
means the National Advisory Committee on Apprenticeships
established under section 112.
``(3) Apprentice.--The term `apprentice' means an
individual who is--
``(A) except where a higher minimum age standard is
otherwise required by law, at least 16 years of age;
``(B) employed by an employer that sponsors or
participates in an apprenticeship program; and
``(C) a participant of such an apprenticeship
program.
``(4) Apprenticeship agreement.--The term `apprenticeship
agreement' means a written agreement under section 123
between--
``(A) an apprentice, a youth apprentice, or a pre-
apprentice; and
``(B) a sponsor.
``(5) Apprenticeship hub.--The term `apprenticeship hub'
means a regional or sectoral qualified intermediary recognized
by a State apprenticeship agency or a State Office of
Apprenticeship as organizing and providing activities and
services related to the development of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs.
``(6) Apprenticeship program.--The term `apprenticeship',
used with respect to a program, means a program that meets the
standards described in subsections (b) and (e) of section 122
and is registered under section 124(b).
``(7) Competency.--The term `competency' means the
attainment of knowledge, skills, and abilities in a subject
area, as specified by an occupational skill standard and
demonstrated by an appropriate written and hands-on proficiency
measurement.
``(8) Education and training provider.--The term `education
and training provider' means--
``(A) an area career and technical education
school;
``(B) an early college high school;
``(C) an education service agency;
``(D) a high school;
``(E) a local educational agency or State
educational agency;
``(F) a Tribal educational agency, Tribally
controlled college or university, or Tribally
controlled postsecondary career and technical
institution;
``(G) a postsecondary educational institution;
``(H) a minority-serving institution;
``(I) a provider of adult education and literacy
activities under the Adult Education and Family
Literacy Act (29 U.S.C. 3271 et seq.);
``(J) a local agency administering plans under
title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C.
720 et seq.), other than section 112 or part C of that
title (29 U.S.C. 732, 741);
``(K) a related instruction provider, including a
qualified intermediary acting as a related instruction
provider as approved by a registration agency;
``(L) a Job Corps center (as defined in section 142
of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3192)); or
``(M) a consortium of entities described in any of
subparagraphs (A) through (L).
``(9) English learner.--The term `English learner' means an
individual who was not born in the United States or whose
native language is a language other than English.
``(10) Frontier state.--The term `frontier State' has the
meaning given the term in section 1886(d)(3)(E)(iii) of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ww(d)(3)(E)(iii)).
``(11) Indian tribe; tribal organization.--The terms
`Indian Tribe' and `Tribal organization' have the meaning given
the terms in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and
Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304).
``(12) Interim credential.--The term `interim credential'
means a credential issued by a registration agency, upon
request of the appropriate sponsor, as certification of
competency attainment by a program participant during
participation in an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or
youth apprenticeship program.
``(13) Journeyworker.--The term `journeyworker' means a
worker who has attained a level of skill, abilities, and
competencies recognized within an industry as having mastered
the skills and competencies required for the occupation.
``(14) Minority-serving institution.--The term `minority-
serving institution' means an institution defined in any of
paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 371(a) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a)).
``(15) National apprenticeship system.--The term `national
apprenticeship system' means the apprenticeship programs, youth
apprenticeship programs, and pre-apprenticeship programs that
are approved by the Office of Apprenticeship and State
apprenticeship agencies.
``(16) National program standards of apprenticeship.--The
term `national program standards of apprenticeship' means a set
of apprenticeship program standards developed and adopted by a
sponsor that--
``(A) are designed for traditional and
nontraditional apprenticeship occupations;
``(B) are national or multi-State in the design,
suitability, and scope of the standards; and
``(C) are registered on a nationwide basis by the
Office of Apprenticeship under section 111(b)(10).
``(17) Nontraditional apprenticeship occupation.--
``(A) In general.--The term `nontraditional
apprenticeship occupation' means an occupation in an
industry sector which has an average program
participant rate of fewer than 10 percent for each of
the 5 preceding years.
``(B) Program participant rate.--In this paragraph,
the term `program participant rate', when used with
respect to an occupation in an industry sector, means
the percentage of the total program participants that
participate in an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship,
or youth apprenticeship program in such occupation.
``(18) Nontraditional apprenticeship population.--The term
`nontraditional apprenticeship population' means a group of
individuals with a common demographic trait (such as
individuals from the same gender, race, or ethnicity), the
members of which--
``(A) comprise fewer than 25 percent of the program
participants in an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship,
or youth apprenticeship program; or
``(B) based on the most recent satisfactory data
from the Bureau of the Census, comprise a percentage of
individuals employed in an occupation that is lower
than the percentage of the total population of the
United States comprised by such members.
``(19) Occupation suitable for apprenticeship.--The term
`occupation suitable for apprenticeship' means an occupation
that the Administrator has approved as an occupation suitable
for apprenticeship under section 121.
``(20) Outlying area.--The term `outlying area' means
American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands.
``(21) Pre-apprentice.--The term `pre-apprentice' means a
participant in a pre-apprenticeship program.
``(22) Pre-apprenticeship program.--The term `pre-
apprenticeship', used with respect to a program, means a
training model or program that--
``(A) prepares individuals for acceptance into an
apprenticeship program;
``(B) meets the standards described in subsections
(c) and (e) of section 122; and
``(C) is registered under section 124(b).
``(23) Program participant.--The term `program participant'
means an apprentice, a pre-apprentice, or a youth apprentice.
``(24) Qualified intermediary.--
``(A) In general.--The term `qualified
intermediary' means an entity that demonstrates
expertise in building, connecting, sustaining, and
measuring the performance of partnerships described in
subparagraph (B) and serves program participants and
employers by--
``(i) connecting employers to
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth
apprenticeship programs;
``(ii) assisting in the design and
implementation of such programs, including
curriculum development and delivery for related
instruction;
``(iii) supporting entities, sponsors, or
program administrators in meeting the
registration and reporting requirements of this
Act;
``(iv) providing professional development
activities such as training to mentors;
``(v) supporting the recruitment,
retention, and completion of potential program
participants, including nontraditional
apprenticeship populations and individuals with
barriers to employment;
``(vi) developing and providing
personalized program participant supports,
including by partnering with organizations to
provide access to or referrals for supportive
services and financial advising;
``(vii) providing services, resources, and
supports for development, delivery, expansion,
or improvement of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
programs; or
``(viii) serving as a sponsor.
``(B) Partnerships.--The partnerships described in
this subparagraph are partnerships among entities
involved in, or applying to participate in,
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth
apprenticeship programs, including--
``(i) industry or sector partnerships;
``(ii) partnerships among employers, joint
labor-management organizations, labor
organizations, community-based organizations,
industry associations, State or local workforce
development boards, education and training
providers, social service organizations,
economic development organizations, Indian
Tribes or Tribal organizations, one-stop
operators, one-stop partners, or veterans-
service organizations in the State workforce
development system; or
``(iii) partnerships among entities
described in clauses (i) and (ii).
``(25) Recognized postsecondary credential.--The term
`recognized postsecondary credential' has the meaning given the
term in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3102), except that such term does not include a
certificate of completion of an apprenticeship.
``(26) Registration agency.--The term `registration agency'
means the State Office of Apprenticeship or State
apprenticeship agency in a State that is responsible for--
``(A) registering--
``(i) in accordance with section 124,
programs under the national apprenticeship
system; and
``(ii) in accordance with subsection
(b)(3)(B) of such section, program participants
in the State or area covered by such Office or
agency; and
``(B) carrying out the responsibilities of
supporting the youth apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or apprenticeship programs registered
by such Office or agency, including--
``(i) providing technical assistance to
such programs and sponsors of such programs;
and
``(ii) conducting regular quality assurance
assessments and reviews of such programs to
ensure compliance with the minimum labor
standards and the equal employment opportunity
requirements of this Act.
``(27) Related instruction.--The term `related instruction'
means an organized and systematic form of instruction that
meets the requirements of section 122(b)(1)(C).
``(28) Related federal programs.--The term `related Federal
programs' means programs or activities under the following:
``(A) The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.), including adult education and
literacy activities under such Act.
``(B) The Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.).
``(C) The Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.).
``(D) The Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1001 et seq.).
``(E) The Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.).
``(F) Title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 720 et seq.).
``(G) Title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965
(42 U.S.C. 3056 et seq.).
``(H) The postsecondary level under the Carl D.
Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (20
U.S.C. 2302).
``(I) Chapter 2 of title II of the Trade Act of
1974 (19 U.S.C. 2271 et seq.).
``(J) Chapter 41 of title 38, United States Code.
``(K) Employment and training activities carried
out under the Community Services Block Grant Act (42
U.S.C. 9901 et seq.).
``(L) State unemployment compensation laws (in
accordance with applicable Federal law).
``(M) Section 231 of the Second Chance Act of 2007
(34 U.S.C. 60541).
``(N) Part A of title IV of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.).
``(O) Employment and training activities carried
out by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development,
the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Commerce,
the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of
Transportation, and the Administrator of the Small
Business Administration.
``(P) Section 6(d)(4) of the Food and Nutrition Act
of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2015(d)(4)).
``(Q) Educational assistance programs under
chapters 30 through 36 of title 38, United States Code.
``(29) Rural area.--The term `rural area' means an area in
a frontier State.
``(30) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the Secretary
of Labor.
``(31) Sponsor.--The term `sponsor' means any employer,
joint labor-management organization, trade association,
committee, professional association, labor organization,
education and training provider, or qualified intermediary--
``(A) in whose name a apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship program is (or
is to be) registered by a registration agency under
section 124; and
``(B) that assumes responsibility for the
implementation of such program.
``(32) State.--The term `State'--
``(A) has the meaning given such term in section 3
of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3102); and
``(B) includes each of the outlying areas.
``(33) State apprenticeship agency.--The term `State
apprenticeship agency' means a State agency recognized as a
State apprenticeship agency under section 113(a)(1).
``(34) State apprenticeship council.--The term `State
apprenticeship council' means an entity established under
section 113(b)(3) to assist the State apprenticeship agency.
``(35) State office of apprenticeship.--The term `State
office of apprenticeship' means the office designated by the
Administrator to administer programs under the national
apprenticeship system in such State and meets the requirements
of section 111(b)(3).
``(36) State or local workforce development board.--The
terms `State workforce development' and `local workforce
development', used with respect to a board, have the meanings
given the terms `State board' and `local board', respectively,
in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3102).
``(37) State workforce agency.--The term `State', used with
respect to a workforce agency, means the State agency with
responsibility for workforce investment activities under
chapters 2 and 3 of subtitle B of title I of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3121 et seq., 3131 et
seq.).
``(38) Tribal educational agency.--The term `Tribal
educational agency' has the meaning given the term in section
6132 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 7452).
``(39) Universal design for learning.--The term `universal
design for learning' has the meaning given the term in section
103 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1003).
``(40) Veteran.--The term `veteran' means an individual who
has served in the United States Armed Forces.
``(41) Youth apprentice.--The term `youth apprentice' means
a participant in a youth apprenticeship program.
``(42) Youth apprenticeship program.--The term `youth
apprenticeship', used with respect to a program, means a model
or program that meets the standards described in subsections
(d) and (e) of section 122 and is registered under under
section 124(b).
``(43) CTE terms.--The terms `area career and technical
education school', `articulation agreement', `credit transfer
agreement', `postsecondary educational institution', `Tribally
controlled college or university', `Tribally controlled
postsecondary career and technical institution', and `work-
based learning' have the meanings given in section 3 of the
Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (20
U.S.C. 2302).
``(44) ESEA terms.--The terms `dual or concurrent
enrollment program', `early college high school', `educational
service agency', `high school', `local educational agency',
`paraprofessional', and `State educational agency' have the
meanings given in section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801).
``(45) WIOA terms.--The terms `career pathway', `dislocated
worker', `in-demand industry sector or occupation', `individual
with a barrier to employment', `industry or sector
partnership', `labor market area', `local area', `one-stop
center', `one-stop operator', `one-stop partner', `supportive
services', and `workforce development system' have the meanings
given in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act (29 U.S.C. 3102).
``SEC. 3. PROGRAMS UNDER THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM.
``Any funds appropriated under this Act shall only be used for, or
provided to, programs under the national apprenticeship system,
including any funds awarded for the purposes of grants, contracts,
cooperative agreements, or other agreements, or the development,
implementation, or administration, of programs under the national
apprenticeship system.
``SEC. 4. TRANSITION PROVISIONS.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall take such steps as are
necessary to provide for the orderly transition to the authority of
this Act (as amended by the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023) from
any authority under this Act as in effect on the day before the date of
enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023.
``(b) Rules and Regulations.--The Secretary may--
``(1) prescribe, in accordance with chapter 5 of title 5,
United States Code, rules and regulations to carry out this Act
to the extent necessary to administer and ensure compliance
with the requirements of this Act; and
``(2) continue to administer any regulations in effect as
of the date of enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of
2023 that are not inconsistent with this Act (as amended by the
National Apprenticeship Act of 2023).
``SEC. 5. DISAGGREGATION OF DATA.
``(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), the
disaggregation of data under this Act shall not be required when the
number of program participants in a category is insufficient to yield
statistically reliable information or when the results would reveal
personally identifiable information about a program participant or
would reveal such information when combined with other released
information.
``(b) Exception.--Subsection (a) shall not apply with respect to
the disaggregation of data for the purposes of research and evaluation
under section 132.
``SEC. 6. RELATION TO OTHER LAWS.
``Nothing in this Act shall invalidate, supersede, or limit the
remedies, rights, and procedures under any Federal, State, or local
law, or the law of any State or political subdivision of any State or
jurisdiction establishing minimum labor standards of apprenticeship or
minimum requirements for equal employment opportunity in connection
with programs under the national apprenticeship system that are more
protective than those established under this Act, including those laws
governing the numeric ratio of apprentices to journeyworkers, the
minimum starting age of an apprentice, the minimum entry wage payable
to a program participant, the minimum number of hours of on-the-job
learning or related instruction required by an apprenticeship program,
and the provision of remedies, rights, and procedures that provides
greater or equal protection for individuals based on race, color,
religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,
age, genetic information, or disability than are afforded by this Act.
``TITLE I--PROMOTING PROGRAMS UNDER THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM
``Subtitle A--The Office of Apprenticeship, State Registration Agency
Approval Process, and Interagency Agreement
``SEC. 111. THE OFFICE OF APPRENTICESHIP.
``(a) Establishment of the Office of Apprenticeship.--
``(1) In general.--There is established, in the Employment
and Training Administration of the Department of Labor, an
Office of Apprenticeship (referred to in this section as the
`Office'), which shall be directed by an Administrator who has
demonstrated knowledge of the national apprenticeship system
necessary to head the Office, to--
``(A) facilitate the administration of the
requirements of this Act and of any regulations issued
under this Act;
``(B) coordinate the effective operation of the
national apprenticeship system; and
``(C) fulfill and advance the specific duties and
objectives described in this Act.
``(2) Final decision-making authority.--The Office shall
retain final decision-making authority for Federal purposes on
any matter related to the registration, deregistration, or
operation of any program registered by a registration agency.
``(b) Responsibilities.--The Administrator shall be responsible for
the administration of this Act, including:
``(1) Promotion and awareness activities.--The
Administrator shall carry out promotion and awareness
activities with respect to this Act, including the following:
``(A) Supporting the development or scaling of
apprenticeship models nationally, promoting the
effectiveness of youth apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and apprenticeship programs, and
providing promotional materials to State apprenticeship
agencies, State workforce development systems or local
workforce development systems, State educational
agencies or local educational agencies, employers,
trade associations, professional associations, industry
groups, labor organizations, joint labor-management
organizations, education and training providers,
Federal agencies, Federal and State correctional
facilities, veterans-service organizations, and
prospective apprentices in such programs.
``(B) Promoting greater diversity in the national
apprenticeship system including by--
``(i)(I) promoting outreach to
nontraditional apprenticeship populations,
including by engaging schools that participate
in a schoolwide program under section 1114 of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 6314) and minority-serving
institutions;
``(II) disseminating best practices to
recruit nontraditional apprenticeship
populations, such as women, minorities, long-
term unemployed individuals, individuals with a
disability, individuals recovering from
substance abuse disorders, veterans, military
spouses, individuals experiencing homelessness,
formerly incarcerated individuals, and foster
and former foster youth; and
``(III) engaging small, medium-size, women-
owned, and minority-owned businesses, and
employers in high-skill, high-wage, and in-
demand industry sectors and occupations that
are nontraditional apprenticeship occupations;
and
``(ii) supporting the participation and
retention in the national apprenticeship system
of apprentices and employers from the
populations and businesses and industry sectors
and occupations, respectively, described in
clause (i).
``(2) Technical assistance activities.--The Administrator
shall carry out technical assistance activities with respect to
this Act, including the following:
``(A) Providing technical assistance to--
``(i) assist State apprenticeship agencies
and sponsors in complying with the requirements
of this Act, including with respect to
developing the State plan in section 113(c),
the process and standards described in subtitle
B, and the evaluation and research requirements
described in subtitle C;
``(ii) receive and resolve comments or
complaints from youth apprentices, pre-
apprentices, or apprentices, sponsors,
employers, State apprenticeship agencies, State
local workforce agencies or local workforce
agencies, State educational agencies or local
educational agencies, qualified intermediaries,
labor organizations, joint labor-management
organizations, or other stakeholders;
``(iii) assist (including by providing
assistance for remote or virtual learning or
training, as necessary)--
``(I) sponsors, employers,
qualified intermediaries, and education
and training or related instruction
providers; or
``(II) other entities interested in
becoming sponsors or seeking support
for developing apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
programs or for effectively carrying
out such programs;
``(iv) assist eligible entities applying
for or carrying out grants, contracts, or
cooperative agreements under title II,
including through facilitating the sharing of
best practices;
``(v) share, through a national
apprenticeship system clearinghouse, high-
quality materials for apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
programs (such as related instruction or
training materials in, as determined by the
Administrator, user-friendly formats and
languages that are easily accessible); and
``(vi) assist State apprenticeship agencies
in establishing or expanding apprenticeship
hubs in accordance with section 113(c)(6).
``(B) Cooperating with other Federal agencies for
the promotion and establishment of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship programs,
including the--
``(i) Secretary of Education in--
``(I) providing technical
assistance for the development and
implementation of related instruction
under the national apprenticeship
system that is aligned with State
education systems and education and
training providers; and
``(II) supporting the eligibility
of academic credit and credentials
earned as part of such programs,
including through articulation
agreements and career pathways;
``(ii) State workforce development systems
to promote awareness of opportunities under the
national apprenticeship system;
``(iii) Attorney General and the Director
of the Bureau of Prisons in providing technical
assistance for the development and
implementation of related instruction under the
national apprenticeship system that is aligned
with a mentoring program administered by the
Attorney General to--
``(I) support the establishment or
expansion of pre-apprenticeships and
apprenticeship programs to all Federal
correctional institutions;
``(II) share through the national
apprenticeship system clearinghouse
research and best practices for
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or
youth apprenticeship programs in
correctional settings and for
individuals impacted by the criminal
and juvenile justice system;
``(III) provide technical
assistance for State prison systems and
employers seeking to operate or improve
corrections-based pre-apprenticeship or
apprenticeship programs; and
``(IV) support the successful
transition of individuals in
correctional institutions to pre-
apprenticeship or apprenticeship
programs upon exiting from correctional
settings; and
``(iv) Secretary of Health and Human
Services to coordinate with State programs
funded by the program of block grants to States
for temporary assistance for needy families
established under part A of title IV of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) to
promote awareness of opportunities under the
national apprenticeship system for participants
in such State programs.
``(3) State offices of apprenticeship.--
``(A) Establishment of offices.--
``(i) In general.--The Administrator shall
establish and operate a State Office of
Apprenticeship in each State described in
clause (ii) to, as described in subparagraph
(B), serve as the registration agency for such
State.
``(ii) Applicable states.--A State
described in this clause is a State--
``(I) in which, as of the day
before the date of enactment of the
National Apprenticeship Act of 2023,
there is no State Office of
Apprenticeship; and
``(II) that has not applied for
recognition as a State apprenticeship
agency under section 113(a)(2), or for
which such recognition was not provided
or has been withdrawn by the
Administrator under subsection (e)(1)
of such section.
``(B) Program registration.--Each State Office of
Apprenticeship shall have authority to register a pre-
apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, or apprenticeship
program in the State of such State Office of
Apprenticeship, including by--
``(i) determining whether such program is
in compliance with the standards for such
program under section 122;
``(ii) in accordance with section 124,
registering such a program that is in
compliance with such standards and providing a
certificate of registration for such program;
``(iii) providing technical assistance to
sponsors or potential sponsors; and
``(iv) in the case of such a program that
fails to meet the requirements of this Act,
providing for the deregistration of the program
in accordance with section 131(d).
``(C) State plan requirement.--Each State Office of
Apprenticeship shall be administered by a State
Director who shall prepare and submit a State plan that
meets the requirements of section 113(c), except that a
reference to a State apprenticeship agency or a State
agency in such section or section 113(d) (other than in
paragraph (5) of such section) shall be considered to
be a reference to the State Office of Apprenticeship.
``(D) Vacancies.--Subject to the availability of
appropriations, in the case of a State Office of
Apprenticeship with a vacant position, the
Administrator shall--
``(i) make information on such vacancy
available on a publicly accessible website; and
``(ii) if such vacancy is not filled 90
days after such position became vacant, report
to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor,
and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on
Education and the Workforce of the House of
Representatives on the status and length of
such vacancy.
``(E) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this
paragraph shall be construed to prohibit any State
described in subparagraph (A)(ii) from establishing an
agency or entity to promote apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship programs in
such State, in coordination with the State Office of
Apprenticeship operating in the State, so long as such
agency or entity does not act as the registration
agency in such State.
``(4) Quality standards, apprenticeship agreement, and
registration review.--Not later than 1 year after the effective
date of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023, and at least
every 3 years thereafter, the Administrator, shall review, and
as appropriate, update the process for meeting the requirements
of subtitle B, including applicable subregulatory guidance and
registration processes--
``(A) to ensure that such process is easily
accessible and efficient to bring together entities
described in section 2(31) as sponsors or potential
sponsors of apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or
youth apprenticeship programs;
``(B) to support the formulation and furtherance of
labor standards necessary to safeguard the welfare of
program participants; and
``(C) to extend the application of such standards
in apprenticeship agreements.
``(5) Occupations suitable for apprenticeship.--
``(A) In general.--
``(i) New occupations.--The Administrator
shall--
``(I) review each application
submitted under section 121(a) seeking
approval for an occupation to be an
occupation suitable for apprenticeship;
and
``(II) except as provided in clause
(ii), make a determination, not later
than 45 days after receipt of such
application, in accordance with such
section on whether to provide such
approval.
``(ii) Estimated timeline.--If the
Administrator does not make a determination
under clause (i)(II) within 45 days of receipt
of the application under section 121(a), the
Administrator shall provide the applicant
with--
``(I) a written explanation for the
delay; and
``(II) an estimated timeline for a
determination that is not more than 90
days after the date of such written
explanation.
``(iii) Review.--The Administrator--
``(I) shall regularly review each
occupation suitable for apprenticeship
to ensure that the occupation is in
compliance with the national
occupational standards established or
updated under subparagraph (B)(i); and
``(II) may, if the Administrator
determines through such review that the
occupation is no longer in compliance,
withdraw the approval of the
occupation.
``(B) National occupational standards.--
``(i) In general.--Using funds appropriated
under section 141(a), the Administrator shall,
on an ongoing basis and taking into
consideration recommendations of the Advisory
Committee under section 112(d)(4), convene
relevant representatives described in clause
(ii) to establish or update frameworks for
national occupational standards for occupations
suitable for apprenticeship (including
potential occupations) that--
``(I) meet the requirements of this
Act; and
``(II) describe--
``(aa) program scope and
length, required related
instruction, required on-the-
job training, recognized
postsecondary credentials
awarded through such
apprenticeship, and
competencies achieved through
such apprenticeship; and
``(bb) relevant timelines
for review of such frameworks.
``(ii) Industry sector leaders and
experts.--
``(I) In general.--Subject to
subclause (II), the industry sector
leaders and experts described in this
clause are representatives of
employers, industry associations, joint
labor-management organizations, labor
organizations, education and training
providers, credential providers,
program participants, national
qualified intermediaries (including
those supporting increased
participation of nontraditional
apprenticeship populations and
nontraditional apprenticeship
occupations) and other stakeholders
relevant, as determined by the
Administrator, to the sector or
occupation for which the frameworks
under clause (i) are being established
or updated.
``(II) Work related to sector 23 of
the north american industry
classification system.--In the case of
an occupation or sector classified in
sector 23 of the most recent
publication of the North American
Industry Classification System, not
fewer than half of the industry sector
leaders and experts involved in
establishing or updating the applicable
frameworks under clause (i) with
respect to such occupation or sector
shall be representatives of--
``(aa) labor organizations
who represent employees
primarily in the building
trades and construction
industry; or
``(bb) joint labor-
management organizations who
have responsibility for the
administration of an
apprenticeship program in the
building trades and
construction industry.
``(iii) Priority national occupations
suitable for apprenticeship.--In establishing
frameworks under clause (i) for the first time
after the effective date of the National
Apprenticeship Act of 2023, the Administrator
shall prioritize the establishment of such
standards in high-skill, high-wage, or in-
demand industry sectors and occupations.
``(C) Regulations.--Not later than 1 year after the
date of the enactment of the National Apprenticeship
Act of 2023, the Secretary shall, through notice and
comment rulemaking under section 553 of title 5, United
States Code, issue regulations for purposes of carrying
out subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C).
``(D) Nontraditional apprenticeship populations.--
The Administrator shall regularly evaluate the
participation rate of the nontraditional apprenticeship
populations, such as women, minorities, long-term
unemployed, individuals with a disability, individuals
with substance abuse issues, veterans, military
spouses, individuals experiencing homelessness,
formerly incarcerated individuals, and foster and
former foster youth, for each occupation suitable for
apprenticeship.
``(6) Program oversight and evaluation.--The Administrator
shall--
``(A) monitor State apprenticeship agencies, State
Offices of Apprenticeship, recipients and subrecipients
of assistance, and sponsors of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship programs to
ensure compliance with the requirements of this Act;
``(B) conduct research and evaluation in accordance
with subtitle C; and
``(C) require regular reports by State
apprenticeship agencies on the performance of State
agencies, including on efforts State agencies make to
increase employer awareness of apprenticeship programs
for employers who have not participated.
``(7) Promoting diversity in the national apprenticeship
system.--The Administrator shall promote diversity, and ensure
equal opportunity to participate, in programs for apprentices,
youth apprentices, and pre-apprentices, including by--
``(A) taking steps necessary to promote diversity
in occupations suitable for apprenticeship under the
national apprenticeship system, especially in high-
skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors and
occupations in areas with high percentages of low-
income individuals; and
``(B) supporting the recruitment, employment, and
retention of nontraditional apprenticeship populations
(including, as applicable, women, people of color,
individuals with disabilities, low-income participants
in related Federal programs, individuals impacted by
the criminal and juvenile justice system, and
individuals with barriers to employment) in
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs in high-skill, high-wage, and
in-demand industry sectors and occupations.
``(8) National advisory committee.--The Administrator
shall--
``(A) regularly consult with the National Advisory
Committee on Apprenticeships established under section
112(a); and
``(B) transmit required recommendations and other
reports of the Advisory Committee to the Committee on
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate
and the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the
House of Representatives.
``(9) Coordination.--The Administrator shall coordinate and
align apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs with related Federal programs to better
promote participation in the national apprenticeship program.
``(10) National program standards of apprenticeship.--The
Administrator shall, on a nationwide basis, register as
national program standards of apprenticeship any standards for
an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
program submitted by the sponsor of such program that meet the
minimum requirements for national program standards established
by the Administrator.
``(c) Information Collection and Dissemination.--The Administrator
shall provide for data collection and dissemination of information
regarding apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship
programs, including--
``(1) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023, establishing and
supporting a single information technology infrastructure to
support data collection and reporting from State apprenticeship
agencies, State Offices of Apprenticeship, eligible entities
carrying out grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements under
title II, sponsors, and administrators by providing for a data
infrastructure that--
``(A) is--
``(i) developed and maintained by the
Administrator with input from national data and
privacy experts; and
``(ii) informed by best practices on public
provision of credential information; and
``(B) aligns, to the extent practicable, with the
technology infrastructure for related Federal programs,
such as the technology infrastructure used under the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
3101 et seq.);
``(C) best meets the needs of the national
apprenticeship system stakeholders that are reporting
data to the Administrator or State apprenticeship
agencies, including through the provision of, as
necessary, technical assistance and financial
assistance to ensure reporting systems are equipped to
report into such single information technology
infrastructure; and
``(D) is aligned with data from the performance
reviews under section 131(b)(1)(A);
``(2) providing for data sharing on the most recent data
available to the Administrator (consistent with national
standards and practices) that includes making nonpersonally
identifiable apprenticeship data available on a publicly
accessible website that is consumer tested and is searchable
and comparable (through the use of common, linked, open-data
description language, such as the credential transparency
description language or a substantially similar resource) and
that allows interested parties to become aware of
apprenticeship opportunities and of program outcomes that best
meets the needs of youth apprentices, pre-apprentices, and
apprentices, employers, education and training providers,
sponsors, and relevant stakeholders, including--
``(A) information on program offerings under the
national apprenticeship system based on geographical
location and occupations suitable for apprenticeship;
``(B) information on education and training
providers providing opportunities under such system,
including whether programs under such system offer dual
or concurrent enrollment programs, articulation
agreements, and recognized postsecondary credentials as
part of the program offerings; and
``(C) information about the educational and
occupational credentials and related competencies of
programs under such system.
``SEC. 112. NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON APPRENTICESHIPS.
``(a) Establishment.--
``(1) In general.--There is established in the Department
of Labor a National Advisory Committee on Apprenticeships.
``(2) Composition.--
``(A) Appointments.--The Advisory Committee shall
consist of--
``(i) 27 voting members described in
subparagraph (B) who are appointed by the
Secretary; and
``(ii) ex officio nonvoting members
described in subparagraph (C).
``(B) List of individuals.--The voting members
described in this subparagraph are--
``(i) 9 representatives of employers or
industry associations who participate in an
apprenticeship program, including--
``(I) not less than 1
representative who represents employers
representing nontraditional
apprenticeship occupations and, as
applicable, other high-skill, high-
wage, or in-demand industry sectors or
occupations; and
``(II) not less than 1
representative who represents a women,
minority, or veteran-owned business;
``(ii) 9 representatives of labor
organizations or joint labor-management
organizations who have responsibility for the
administration of an apprenticeship program
(including those sponsored by a joint labor-
management organization and from nontraditional
apprenticeship occupations), including not less
than 1 representative who represents employees
primarily in the building trades and
construction industry; and
``(iii) 1 representative of--
``(I) a State apprenticeship
agency;
``(II) a State or local workforce
development board with significant
expertise in supporting an
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or
youth apprenticeship program;
``(III) a community organization
with significant expertise supporting
such a program;
``(IV) an area career and technical
education school or local educational
agency;
``(V) a State apprenticeship
council;
``(VI) a State or local
postsecondary education and training
provider that administers, or has an
articulation agreement with an entity
administering, an apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
program;
``(VII) a provider of an industry-
recognized credential;
``(VIII) a national qualified
intermediary, including a national
qualified intermediary that supports
increased participation of
nontraditional apprenticeship
populations and nontraditional
apprenticeship occupations; and
``(IX) a program participant.
``(C) Ex officio nonvoting members.--The ex officio
nonvoting members described in this subparagraph are
representatives of--
``(i) the Secretary of Labor;
``(ii) the Secretary of Commerce;
``(iii) the Secretary of Education;
``(iv) the Secretary of Energy;
``(v) the Secretary of Housing and Urban
Development;
``(vi) the Secretary of Transportation;
``(vii) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs;
``(viii) the Secretary of Health and Human
Services;
``(ix) the Attorney General;
``(x) the Secretary of Defense; and
``(xi) the Chair of the Federal
Communications Commission.
``(D) Recommendations.--The Speaker of the House of
Representatives, the minority leader of the House of
Representatives, the majority leader of the Senate, and
the minority leader of the Senate may each recommend to
the Secretary an individual described in clause (i) or
(ii) of subparagraph (B) for appointment under
subparagraph (A)(i).
``(3) Qualifications.--Each individual selected under
paragraph (2)(A)(i) shall be selected by the Secretary on the
basis of the experience and competence of such individual with
respect to apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs.
``(4) Terms.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraphs (B) and (C), each member of the Advisory
Committee selected under paragraph (2)(A)(i) shall be
appointed for a term of 3 years.
``(B) Terms of initial appointees.--
``(i) In general.--The appointments of the
initial members of the Advisory Committee
selected under paragraph (2)(A)(i) shall be
made not later than 6 months after the
effective date of the National Apprenticeship
Act of 2023.
``(ii) Staggering of terms.--As designated
by the Secretary at the time of the
appointment, of such members--
``(I) 9 members shall serve a 1-
year term;
``(II) 9 members shall serve a 2-
year term; and
``(III) 9 members shall serve a 3-
year term.
``(C) Vacancies.--
``(i) In general.--A vacancy on the
Advisory Committee of a member selected under
paragraph (2)(A)(i) shall be filled in the
manner in which the original appointment was
made and shall be subject to any conditions
that applied with respect to the original
appointment, except that such appointment shall
be made not later than 90 days after the date
of the vacancy.
``(ii) Filling unexpired term.--An
individual chosen to fill such a vacancy shall
be appointed for the unexpired term of the
member replaced.
``(iii) Expiration of terms.--The term of
any member selected under paragraph (2)(A)(i)
shall not expire before the date on which the
member's successor takes office.
``(iv) Appointment for full term.--Such a
member who fulfilled a partial term as the
result of a vacancy may, at the end of that
term, be appointed to a full term.
``(v) Multiple terms.--A member of the
Advisory Committee selected under paragraph
(2)(A)(i) may serve not more than 2 full terms
on the Advisory Committee.
``(D) Subcommittees.--
``(i) In general.--The Secretary may
establish subcommittees under the Advisory
Committee, which shall be composed in equal
number of representatives from individuals
listed in subclauses (I), (II), and (III) of
subparagraph (B)(ii), to carry out specific
functions related to the purposes of the
Advisory Committee and provide recommendations
to the Advisory Committee for the review and
consideration of the Advisory Committee.
``(ii) Meetings.--Any subcommittee
established under clause (i) may meet, as
appropriate, when the Advisory Committee is not
meeting in accordance with subsection (c).
``(b) Chairperson.--The Secretary shall designate one voting member
described in subsection (a)(2)(A)(i) of the Advisory Committee to serve
as Chairperson of the Advisory Committee.
``(c) Meetings.--
``(1) In general.--The Advisory Committee shall meet at the
call of the Secretary and shall hold not fewer than 4 meetings
during each calendar year. The Secretary shall consult with the
Chairperson in developing the agenda for the meeting.
``(2) Open access.--All meetings of the Advisory Committee
shall be open to the public. A transcript shall be kept of each
meeting and made available for public inspection not later than
30 days after the meeting.
``(d) Duties.--The Advisory Committee shall, at a minimum--
``(1) advise, consult with, and make recommendations to the
Secretary on matters relating to the administration of this
Act, including recommendations on regulations and policies
related to the administration of this Act;
``(2) annually make recommendations to the Secretary, to be
transmitted in accordance with section 111(b)(8)(B), on
improving the registration process under subtitle B to make the
process easily accessible and efficient for use by sponsors
while maintaining the requirements under subtitle B;
``(3) make recommendations to the Secretary, to be
transmitted in accordance with section 111(b)(9)(B) on
expanding participation of nontraditional apprenticeship
populations in apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs; and
``(4) review occupations suitable for apprenticeship and,
based on reviews of labor market trends and changes, make
recommendations to the Secretary on whether to--
``(A) update the list of occupations suitable for
apprenticeship under section 111(b)(5); or
``(B) convene sector leaders and experts under
subparagraph (B) of such section for establishing
specific frameworks of national occupational standards.
``(e) Personnel.--
``(1) Compensation of members.--
``(A) In general.--A member of the Advisory
Committee who is not an officer or employee of the
Federal Government shall be compensated at a rate equal
to the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay
prescribed for level IV of the Executive Schedule under
section 5315 of title 5, United States Code, for each
day (including travel time) during which the member is
engaged in the performance of the duties of the
Advisory Committee.
``(B) Officers or employees of the united states.--
Members of the Advisory Committee who are officers or
employees of the United States may not receive
additional pay, allowances, or benefits by reason of
their service on the Advisory Committee.
``(2) Staff.--The Secretary shall supply the Advisory
Committee with an executive director and provide such
secretarial, clerical, and other services as the Secretary
determines to be necessary to enable the Advisory Committee to
carry out the duties described in subsection (d).
``(3) Data requests.--The Advisory Committee, through its
Chairperson, may request data from the Secretary as determined
necessary by the Advisory Committee to carry out the functions
of the Advisory Committee.
``(f) Permanent Committee.--Chapter 10 of title 5, United States
Code (other than section 1013 of such chapter) shall apply to the
Advisory Committee.
``SEC. 113. STATE APPRENTICESHIP AGENCIES AND STATE OFFICES OF
APPRENTICESHIP.
``(a) Recognition of State Apprenticeship Agencies.--
``(1) In general.--The Administrator shall recognize a
State agency of a State that submits an application under
paragraph (2) as the State apprenticeship agency of the State
and cooperate with such State apprenticeship agency regarding
the formulation and promotion of standards of apprenticeship
under subtitle B in the State.
``(2) Application.--A State desiring to have a State agency
recognized as a State apprenticeship agency under paragraph (1)
shall submit an application at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Administrator may require,
including--
``(A) the initial State plan described in
subsection (c)(2)(A)(i);
``(B) a description of how the State apprenticeship
agency will meet the State plan requirements of
subsection (c); and
``(C) a description of the linkages and
coordination of the proposed standards, criteria, and
requirements in such State plan with the State's
economic development strategies and workforce
development system and the State's secondary,
postsecondary, and adult education systems.
``(3) Review and recognition.--
``(A) In general.--Not later than 180 days after
the date on which a State submits an application under
paragraph (2), the Secretary shall notify the State
regarding whether the agency of the State is recognized
as a State apprenticeship agency under paragraph (1).
``(B) Duration of recognition.--
``(i) Duration.--The recognition of a State
apprenticeship agency shall be for a 4-year
period beginning on the date the State
apprenticeship agency is notified under
subparagraph (A).
``(ii) Renewal.--
``(I) In general.--The Secretary
shall notify a State apprenticeship
agency not fewer than 180 days before
the last day of the 4-year period
regarding whether the State
apprenticeship agency is in compliance
with this section.
``(II) Compliance.--In the case of
a State apprenticeship agency that is
in compliance with this section, the
recognition of the State apprenticeship
agency under paragraph (1) shall be
renewed for an additional 4-year period
and the notification under subclause
(I) shall include notification of such
renewal.
``(III) Noncompliance.--In the case
of a State apprenticeship agency that
is not in compliance with this section,
the notification shall--
``(aa) specify the areas of
noncompliance;
``(bb) require corrective
action; and
``(cc) offer technical
assistance.
``(iii) Renewal after correction.--If the
Administrator determines that a State
apprenticeship agency has corrected the
identified areas of noncompliance under this
subparagraph not later than 180 days after the
date of the notification of noncompliance under
clause (ii)(I), the recognition of the State
apprenticeship agency under paragraph (1) shall
be renewed for an additional 4-year period.
``(C) Transition period for state agencies.--
``(i) In general.--Not later than 1 year
after the effective date of the National
Apprenticeship Act of 2023, a State agency
that, as of the day before the date of
enactment of such Act, was recognized by the
Secretary for purposes of registering
apprenticeship programs in accordance with this
Act shall submit an application under paragraph
(2).
``(ii) Transition period.--A State agency
described in clause (i) shall be recognized as
a State apprenticeship agency under paragraph
(1) for a 4-year period beginning on the date
on which the Secretary approves the application
submitted by the State agency under paragraph
(2).
``(b) Authority of a State Apprenticeship Agency.--
``(1) In general.--For the period during which a State
apprenticeship agency is recognized under subsection (a)(1),
the State apprenticeship agency shall carry out the
requirements of a registration agency under this Act.
``(2) Program registration.--The State apprenticeship
agency of a State shall have authority to register a pre-
apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, or apprenticeship program
in such State, including by--
``(A) determining whether such program is in
compliance with the standards for such program under
section 122;
``(B) in accordance with section 124, registering
such a program that is in compliance with such
standards and providing a certificate of registration
for such program;
``(C) providing technical assistance to sponsors or
potential sponsors; and
``(D) in the case of such a program that fails to
meet the requirements of this Act, providing for the
deregistration of the program in accordance with
section 131(d).
``(3) State apprenticeship council.--
``(A) In general.--A State apprenticeship agency
shall establish and maintain a State apprenticeship
council, which shall operate under the direction and
control of the State apprenticeship agency, and whose
functions shall include providing the State
apprenticeship agency with advice, recommendations, and
reports concerning apprenticeship policies,
regulations, and trends.
``(B) Composition.--A State apprenticeship council
established under subparagraph (A) may be regulatory or
advisory in nature and shall--
``(i) be composed of individuals familiar
with occupations suitable for apprenticeship;
and
``(ii) be fairly balanced, with an equal
number of--
``(I) representatives of employer
organizations, including such employer
organizations with respect to
nontraditional apprenticeship
occupations;
``(II) representatives of labor
organizations or joint labor-management
organizations, including such
organizations with respect to
nontraditional apprenticeship
occupations; and
``(III) public members; and
``(iii) to the extent practicable, have not
less than 1 member who is a member of the State
workforce board of the State of the State
apprenticeship council.
``(C) Special rule.--A State apprenticeship council
may make recommendations on a sponsor's application for
program registration under section 124, but may not
make final determinations on approval or disapproval of
such application.
``(c) State Plan.--
``(1) In general.--For purposes of an application under
subsection (a)(2)(A) by a State agency to be recognized under
subsection (a)(1) as a State apprenticeship agency, the State
agency shall submit to the Secretary a State plan that meets
the requirements of this subsection.
``(2) Approval of state plan.--
``(A) Submission.--
``(i) Initial plan.--The initial State plan
of a State apprenticeship agency submitted
under subsection (a)(2)(A) shall--
``(I) contain--
``(aa) a description of any
State laws (including
regulations), policies, or
operational procedures relating
to the process of registering
programs under the national
apprenticeship system that is
inconsistent with, or imposes
requirements in addition to,
the requirements of this Act;
``(bb) an assurance that
the State apprenticeship agency
will notify the Administrator
if there are any changes to the
State laws (including
regulations), policies, or
procedures described in item
(aa) that occur after the date
of submission of such plan;
``(cc) an assurance that
the State apprenticeship agency
will make available, on a
publicly available website, a
description of any State laws
(including regulations),
policies, and operational
procedures relating to the
process of registering programs
under the national
apprenticeship system that are
inconsistent with, or impose
requirements in addition to,
the requirements of this Act;
``(dd) the requirements
described in paragraphs (3)
through (12);
``(ee) the plan to promote
diversity in the national
apprenticeship system described
in paragraph (13); and
``(ff) an assurance that
the State apprenticeship agency
will submit subsequent plans in
accordance with clause (ii);
and
``(II) be submitted to the
Administrator with the application
under subsection (a)(2)(A).
``(ii) Subsequent plans.--A State
apprenticeship agency shall submit an updated
State plan to the Administrator not later than
120 days prior to the end of the 4-year period
covered by the preceding State plan.
``(B) Approval.--Not later than 90 days after the
date of submission of a State plan under subparagraph
(A) or of a modified State plan under subparagraph (C),
the Administrator shall--
``(i) approve such plan; or
``(ii) if the Administrator determines such
plan is inconsistent with the requirements of
this Act, provide to the State agency--
``(I) a written explanation for the
determination; and
``(II) an opportunity to, not later
than 30 days after receipt of such
determination, appeal of such
determination to an administrative law
judge.
``(C) Modifications.--
``(i) Modifications.--At the end of the
first 2-year period of any 4-year period
covered by a State plan, the State
apprenticeship agency may submit modifications
of the State plan to the Administrator to
reflect changes in labor market and economic
conditions or other factors affecting the
implementation of the State plan.
``(ii) Approval.--A modified State plan
submitted for review under clause (i) shall be
subject to the approval requirements described
in subparagraph (B).
``(3) Technical assistance.--Each State Plan submitted in
accordance with paragraph (2) shall describe how the State
apprenticeship agency will provide technical assistance for--
``(A) potential sponsors, employers, labor
organizations, joint labor-management organizations,
qualified intermediaries, apprentices, education and
training providers, credentialing bodies, eligible
entities, industry associations, or any potential
program participant in the national apprenticeship
system in the State for purposes of recruitment,
retention, program development, expansion, or
implementation, including by, as necessary, supporting
remote or virtual learning or training;
``(B) sponsors of programs registered in the State,
including sponsors that are not meeting performance
goals under subtitle C, for purposes of assisting
sponsors in meeting or exceeding such goals; and
``(C) sponsors of programs registered in that State
for purposes of assisting such sponsors in achieving,
in accordance with paragraph (13), State goals with
respect to diversity and equal opportunity in
apprenticeships.
``(4) Reciprocity.--Each State plan submitted in accordance
with paragraph (2) shall describe the process for the State
apprenticeship agency to register in the State any
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
program that is seeking to be registered in such State and that
is registered in another State or meets the national program
standards of apprenticeship, including a description of the
process for--
``(A) the sponsor of such program to request that
the State apprenticeship agency register such program
in the State of the State apprenticeship agency; and
``(B) the State apprenticeship agency to register
such program not later than 90 days after receiving the
request for such registration under subparagraph (A)
if, after consultation with the State Apprenticeship
Council, the agency determines that such program will,
as of the date on which the agency registers such
program--
``(i) provide not less than the wages,
overtime pay, fringe benefits, and hours of on-
the-job learning and related classroom-based
instruction that are required for
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth
apprenticeship programs registered in the
State; and
``(ii) in the case of such a program that
is determined by the Secretary to be in a high-
hazard occupation, meet the numeric ratio
requirement of apprentices to supervisors (such
as journeyworkers, mentors, or on-the-job
learning instructors, as applicable) that is at
least as protective with regard to health,
safety, and supervision as such numeric ratio
requirement for apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
programs registered in the State.
``(5) Complaints.--
``(A) In general.--Each State plan submitted in
accordance with paragraph (2) shall include a
description of the system for the State apprenticeship
agency to, subject to subparagraph (B), receive and
resolve complaints submitted by a program participant,
an authorized representative of a program participant,
a sponsor, an employer, or a nonprofit compliance
organizations, such as complaints concerning equal
employment opportunity or discrimination, violations of
the apprenticeship agreement, or violations of
requirements of this Act.
``(B) Collective bargaining agreements.--Any
controversy arising under an apprenticeship agreement
which is covered by a collective bargaining agreement
shall not be subject to the system described in
subparagraph (A), except that complaints concerning
discrimination or any matters described in subparagraph
(13)(B) shall be subject to such system.
``(6) State apprenticeship hubs.--Each State plan submitted
in accordance with paragraph (2) shall describe how the State
will support, in a manner that takes into consideration
geographic diversity, the creation and implementation of
apprenticeship hubs throughout the State that work with
industry and sector partnerships to expand apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs, and
occupations suitable for apprenticeship, in the State.
``(7) State apprenticeship performance outcomes.--Each
State plan submitted in accordance with paragraph (2) shall--
``(A) describe how the State apprenticeship agency,
in coordination with the Administrator, will establish
annual State performance goals for the programs
registered by the State apprenticeship agency for the
indicators described--
``(i) in subclauses (I) and (II) of section
131(b)(1)(A)(i); and
``(ii) in subclauses (II) through (VI) of
section 131(b)(1)(B)(i);
``(B) describe how the State apprenticeship agency
will collect performance data with respect to such
performance goals from programs registered by the
agency; and
``(C) annually report to the Administrator on the
outcomes of each such program for such performance
goals.
``(8) Uses of funds.--Each State plan submitted in
accordance with paragraph (2) shall include a description of
the planned uses (in accordance with subsection (d)) of the
allotment received by the State apprenticeship agency under
subsection (f).
``(9) Alignment of workforce activities.--Each State plan
submitted in accordance with paragraph (2) shall include a
summary of State-supported workforce development activities
(including education and training) in the State, including--
``(A) a summary of the apprenticeship programs on
the list of eligible providers of training services
under section 122(d) of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3152(d));
``(B) the degree to which the apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs in
the State are aligned with and address the skill needs
of the employers in the State identified by the State
workforce development board; and
``(C) except in the case of a State plan submitted
by a State Office of Apprenticeship, a description of
how apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth
apprenticeship programs will receive expedited
consideration to be included on the list of eligible
providers of training services under section 122(d) of
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
3152(d)).
``(10) State strategic vision.--Each State plan submitted
in accordance with paragraph (2) shall include a summary of--
``(A) the strategic vision and goals of the State
with respect to preparing an educated and skilled
workforce and to meeting the skilled workforce needs of
employers, including in existing and emerging in-demand
industry sectors and occupations, as identified by the
State apprenticeship agency; and
``(B) how the programs registered by the State
apprenticeship agency in the State will help to meet
such vision and goals.
``(11) Strategy for any joint planning, alignment,
coordination, and leveraging of funds.--Each State plan
submitted in accordance with paragraph (2) shall provide a
description of the strategy of the State apprenticeship agency
for, as applicable, joint planning, alignment, coordination,
and leveraging of funds--
``(A) with the workforce development system of the
State to achieve the strategic vision and goals
described in paragraph (10)(A), including for the core
programs (as defined in section 3 of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3102)) and
the elements related to system alignment under section
102(b)(2)(B) of such Act (29 U.S.C. 3112(b)(2)(B));
``(B) for apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and
youth apprenticeship programs in the State with other
Federal education programs, including programs under--
``(i) the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.);
``(ii) the Individuals with Disabilities
Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.);
``(iii) the Carl D. Perkins Career and
Technical Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2301
et seq.); and
``(iv) the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1001 et seq.); and
``(C) to provide information about access to
available State assistance or assistance under related
Federal programs, including such assistance under--
``(i) section 6(d)(4) of the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2015(d)(4));
``(ii) section 3672 of title 38, United
States Code;
``(iii) section 231 of the Second Chance
Act of 2007 (34 U.S.C. 60541); and
``(iv) programs of the State funded by the
program of block grants to States for temporary
assistance for needy families established under
part A of title IV of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.).
``(12) State apprenticeship council.--Each State plan
submitted in accordance with paragraph (2) by a State
apprenticeship agency shall include a description of the
composition, roles, and responsibility of the State
apprenticeship council of the State of such State
apprenticeship agency and how the Council will comply with the
requirements of subsection (b)(3).
``(13) Promoting diversity in the national apprenticeship
system.--Each State plan submitted in accordance with paragraph
(2) shall include a plan for how the State apprenticeship
agency will--
``(A) promote diversity in occupations suitable for
apprenticeship offered throughout the State, including
a description of how such agency will promote the
addition of such occupations in high-skill, high-wage,
or in-demand industry sectors and occupations, and in
nontraditional apprenticeship occupations; and
``(B) promote diversity and equal opportunity in
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs by uniformly adopting and
implementing the requirements of section 111(b)(7)(B).
``(d) State Apprenticeship Agency Funding.--A State apprenticeship
agency shall use any funds received under clauses (i) and (ii) of
subsection (f)(1)(A) according to the following requirements:
``(1) Program administration.--Except as provided in
paragraphs (2), (3), and (4), the State apprenticeship agency
shall use such funds to support the administration of
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship
programs in the State, including for--
``(A) staff and resources;
``(B) oversight and evaluation required under this
Act;
``(C) technical assistance to sponsors, program
participants, employers, labor organizations, joint
labor-management organizations, education and training
providers, and qualified intermediaries;
``(D) pre-apprenticeship, youth, and apprenticeship
program recruitment and development, including for--
``(i) engaging potential providers of such
programs such as employers, qualified
intermediaries, related instruction providers,
and potential program participants;
``(ii) publicizing apprenticeship
opportunities and benefits; and
``(iii) engaging State workforce and
education systems for collaboration and
alignment across systems;
``(E) supporting the enrollment and apprenticeship
certification requirements to allow veterans and other
individuals eligible for the educational assistance
programs under chapters 30 through 36 of title 38,
United States Code, and any related educational
assistance programs under laws administered by the
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, to use such assistance
for the apprenticeship program, including for meeting
the requirement of designating a certifying official;
and
``(F) supporting the retention and completion of
program participants in such programs, such as by
assisting with the costs--
``(i) related to enrolling in such
programs; or
``(ii) of assessments related to obtaining
a recognized postsecondary credential.
``(2) Educational alignment.--A State apprenticeship agency
shall use not less than 10 percent of funds received under
clauses (i) and (ii) of subsection (f)(1)(A) to engage with the
State education system to provide technical assistance and best
practices regarding--
``(A) alignment of youth apprenticeship programs
with the secondary education programs in the State,
including support for career exploration, career
pathways, education and career planning, and engagement
with youth apprenticeship programs for teachers, career
guidance and academic counselors, school leaders,
administrators, and specialized instructional support
personnel and paraprofessionals;
``(B) alignment of related instruction provided
under the national apprenticeship system in the State
with academic credit granting postsecondary programs
(including developing career pathways, articulation
agreements, and prior learning assessments); and
``(C) the joint planning, alignment, coordination,
and leveraging of funds described in subparagraphs (B)
and (C) of subsection (c)(11).
``(3) Workforce alignment.--A State apprenticeship agency
shall use not less than 10 percent of funds received under
clauses (i) and (ii) of subsection (f)(1)(A) to engage with the
State workforce development system to provide technical
assistance and best practices regarding--
``(A) alignment, in accordance with paragraphs (9),
(10), and subparagraphs (A) and (C) of subsection
(c)(11), with the workforce activities of the State and
the strategic vision and goals of the State with
respect to preparing an educated and skilled workforce
and to meeting the skilled workforce needs of
employers;
``(B) guidance for training staff of the workforce
development system, including vocational rehabilitation
agencies, within the State on the value of
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs as a work-based learning option
for participants, including participants of programs
authorized under the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.) such as Job
Corps under subtitle C of title I of such Act (29
U.S.C. 3191 et seq.) and YouthBuild under section 171
of such Act (29 U.S.C. 3226);
``(C) providing a list of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs that
are offered in the State, including in the high-skill,
high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations
in the State;
``(D) alignment of funding received and reporting
required under this Act, including relevant placement,
retention, and earnings information, with the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et
seq.), and technical assistance for how individual
training accounts under section 134(c)(3) of such Act
(29 U.S.C. 3174) could be used to pay for the costs of
enrolling and participating in apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs;
``(E) partnerships with State or local workforce
development boards, State workforce agencies, and one-
stop centers and one-stop operators that assist program
participants in accessing supportive services to
support--
``(i) the recruitment, retention, and
completion of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship
programs, including the recruitment of
nontraditional populations and dislocated
workers;
``(ii) transitions from youth
apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships to
apprenticeship programs; and
``(iii) the placement into employment or
further education upon program completion; and
``(F) except in the case of funds received by a
State Office of Apprenticeship, expanding the list of
eligible providers of training services under section
122(d) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
(29 U.S.C. 3152(d)) to include apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs in
the State.
``(4) Leadership activities.--
``(A) In general.--A State apprenticeship agency
may reserve not more than 15 percent of the funds
received under clauses (i) and (ii) of subsection
(f)(1)(A) in support of State apprenticeship
initiatives described in subparagraphs (B), (C), and
(D).
``(B) Diversity.--Not less than 5 percent of the
amount reserved under subparagraph (A) shall be used by
the State apprenticeship agency for supporting and
expanding diversity in occupations suitable for
apprenticeship under the national apprenticeship system
in the State and program participant populations in the
State.
``(C) Incentives for employers.--Except as provided
in subparagraph (B), a State apprenticeship agency may
use funds reserved under subparagraph (A) to
incentivize employers to participate in apprenticeship,
pre-apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs,
such as by providing funding for costs related to
program development, staffing for mentors and
supervisors, related instruction, or the creation of
industry or sector partnerships to support employer
participation.
``(D) State-specific initiatives.--Except as
provided in subparagraph (B), a State apprenticeship
agency may use funds reserved under subparagraph (A)
for State-specific apprenticeship initiatives, such as
the development or expansion of youth apprenticeship
programs or apprenticeship programs in high-skill,
high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors and
occupations.
``(5) State match for federal investment.--
``(A) In general.--Except in the case of
exceptional circumstances, as determined by the
Administrator, or as described in subparagraph (B), to
receive a full allotment under subsection (f) a State
apprenticeship agency shall use matching funds from
non-Federal resources to carry out the activities of
the agency under this Act in an amount not less than 25
percent of such allotment.
``(B) Transition period.--The requirement under
subparagraph (A) shall take effect with respect to a
State apprenticeship agency described in clause (i) of
subsection (a)(3)(C) on the date that is 1 day after
the date on which the 4-year period described in clause
(ii) of such subsection ends with respect to such a
State apprenticeship.
``(e) Derecognition of State Apprenticeship Agencies.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary may withdraw recognition
of a State apprenticeship agency before the end of the 4-year
recognition period of the State apprenticeship agency under
subsection (a)(3)(B) if the Secretary determines, after notice
and an opportunity for a hearing, that the State apprenticeship
agency has failed for one of the reasons described in paragraph
(2) and has not been in compliance with the performance
improvement plan under paragraph (3)(A) to remedy such failure.
``(2) Derecognition criteria.--The recognition of a State
apprenticeship agency under subsection (a) may be withdrawn
under paragraph (1) in a case in which the State apprenticeship
agency fails to--
``(A) adopt or properly enforce a State plan;
``(B) properly carry out the role of the agency as
the sole registration agency in the State;
``(C) submit a report under section 131(b)(1)(B)
for any program year;
``(D) meet the State levels of performance as
described in subsection (c)(7)(A) or demonstrate
improvements in performance for 3 consecutive program
years; or
``(E) otherwise fulfill or operate in compliance
with the requirements of this Act.
``(3) Derecognition process.--
``(A) In general.--If a State apprenticeship agency
fails for any of the reasons described in paragraph
(2), the Secretary shall provide technical assistance
to such agency for corrective action to remedy such
failure, including assistance in the development of a
performance improvement plan.
``(B) Reduction of funds.--Except in the case of
exceptional circumstances, as determined by the
Administrator, in a case in which such a State
apprenticeship agency continues such failure after the
provision of the technical assistance under
subparagraph (A)--
``(i) the percentage of the funds to be
allotted to the State apprenticeship agency
under subsection (f)(1)(A) for each fiscal year
following the fiscal year in which such failure
has been identified shall be reduced by 5
percentage points from the amount allotted in
such fiscal year; and
``(ii) the Administrator shall provide
notice to the State apprenticeship agency that
the recognition of the agency under subsection
(a) may be withdrawn if the agency fails to
remedy the failure.
``(C) Termination of proceedings.--If the
Administrator determines that the State apprenticeship
agency's corrective action under subparagraph (A) has
addressed the agency's failure identified under
paragraph (2), the Administrator shall--
``(i) restore the full funding allocation
of the agency under subsection (f)(1)(A) for
the next full fiscal year; and
``(ii) notify the State apprenticeship
agency that the recognition of the agency will
not be withdrawn under this subsection for the
reason for which the funding was most recently
reduced under subparagraph (B).
``(D) Opportunity for hearing.--In a case in which
a State apprenticeship agency fails to remedy a failure
identified under paragraph (2) after receiving the
notice provided under subparagraph (B)(ii), the
Administrator shall--
``(i) provide a written notification to the
State apprenticeship agency describing such
failure and notifying the State apprenticeship
agency that the Administrator has determined
the State apprenticeship agency has failed to
remedy the failure; and
``(ii) offer the State apprenticeship
agency an opportunity to, not later than 30
days after the date of such notice, appeal of
such determination to an administrative law
judge.
``(4) Requirements regarding withdrawal of recognition.--
``(A) Office of apprenticeship.--
``(i) In general.--If a State
apprenticeship agency does not appeal the
determination under paragraph (3)(D)(ii) or is
unsuccessful in such an appeal, the
Administrator shall--
``(I) provide to the State
apprenticeship agency an order
withdrawing recognition of such agency
under this subsection; and
``(II) establish a State Office of
Apprenticeship under section
111(b)(3)(A)(i).
``(ii) After order.--Not later than 30 days
after the date that an order under clause
(i)(I) is provided to a State apprenticeship
agency, the Administrator shall provide
notification of the withdrawal to the sponsors
in the State of the State apprenticeship agency
that were registered with the State
apprenticeship agency to enable each such
sponsor to be registered with the Administrator
(acting through the State Office of
Apprenticeship established under clause
(i)(II)).
``(B) State apprenticeship agency requirements.--A
State agency that has had recognition withdrawn under
subparagraph (A) shall--
``(i) provide to the Administrator program
standards, apprenticeship agreements,
completion records, cancellation and suspension
records, performance metrics, and any other
documents relating to the apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship
programs in the State;
``(ii) cooperate fully during the
transition period beginning on the date of the
order withdrawing such recognition under
subparagraph (A)(i)(I) and ending on the date
on which the Administrator establishes a State
Office of Apprenticeship in the State under
section 111(b)(3)(A)(i); and
``(iii) return any unused funds received
under this Act.
``(5) Reinstatement of recognition.--A State agency that
has had recognition withdrawn as a State apprenticeship agency
under this subsection may have such recognition reinstated upon
presentation of adequate evidence that the State apprenticeship
agency has--
``(A) submitted an application under subsection
(a)(2); and
``(B) demonstrated the ability to operate in
compliance with the requirements of this Act.
``(f) Reservation and State Allotments.--
``(1) State allotments.--
``(A) In general.--Of the amount appropriated under
subsection (g) for a fiscal year--
``(i) 33\1/3\ percent shall be equally
allotted among each State Office of
Apprenticeship, outlying area, and eligible
State; and
``(ii) 66\2/3\ percent shall be allotted to
eligible States on the basis described in
subparagraph (B).
``(B) Formula.--
``(i) In general.--Of the amount described
under subparagraph (A)(ii)--
``(I) 25 percent shall be allotted
on the basis of the relative share of
program participants in each eligible
State, as determined on the basis of
the most recent satisfactory data
available from the Administrator,
compared to the total number of program
participants in all eligible States, as
determined on such basis;
``(II) 25 percent shall be allotted
on the basis of the relative share of
program participants who have completed
an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship,
or youth apprenticeship program in each
eligible State during the most recent
5-year period, as determined on the
basis of the most recent satisfactory
data available from the Administrator,
compared to the total 5-year average of
program participants who have completed
a program in all eligible States, as
determined on such basis; and
``(III) 50 percent shall be
allotted on the basis described in
clause (ii).
``(ii) Allotments based on bls and acs
data.--Of the amount described under clause
(i)(III)--
``(I) 33\1/3\ percent shall be
allotted on the basis of the relative
share of individuals in the civilian
labor force in each eligible State,
compared to the total number of
individuals in the civilian labor force
in all eligible States;
``(II) 33\1/3\ percent shall be
allotted on the basis of the relative
share of individuals living below the
poverty line in each eligible State,
compared to the total number of
individuals living below the poverty
line in all eligible States; and
``(III) 33\1/3\ percent shall be
allotted on the basis of the relative
number of unemployed individuals in
each eligible State, compared to the
total number of unemployed individuals
in all eligible States.
``(2) Definitions.--In this subsection--
``(A) Eligible state.--The term `eligible State'
means a State that has a State apprenticeship agency.
``(B) Poverty line.--The term `poverty line' has
the meaning given such term in section 3 of the
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C.
3102).
``(C) Unemployed individual.--The term `unemployed
individual' has the meaning given such term in section
3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3102).
``(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out this section--
``(1) $75,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(2) $85,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(3) $95,000,000 for fiscal year 2027;
``(4) $105,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and
``(5) $115,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.
``SEC. 114. INTERAGENCY AGREEMENT WITH DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION.
``(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the effective date
of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023, the Secretary (acting
through the Administrator) shall--
``(1) enter into an interagency agreement with the
Secretary of Education to promote and support integration and
alignment of apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs with secondary, postsecondary, and
adult education, through the activities described in this
section; and
``(2) submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor,
and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Education and
the Workforce of the House of Representatives such agreement
and any modifications to such agreement.
``(b) Alignment for Youth Apprenticeships.--In order to promote
alignment between youth apprenticeship programs and high school
graduation requirements, the interagency agreement under subsection
(a)(1) shall describe how the Secretaries will work to provide--
``(1) information and resources to--
``(A) parents and students to promote, in user-
friendly formats and languages that are easily
accessible, a better understanding, by not later than
middle school, of apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship,
and youth apprenticeship programs and their value in
secondary and postsecondary education and career
pathways; and
``(B) school leaders (working with academic
counselors, teachers, and faculty) about the value of
such programs and information on how to effectively
align youth apprenticeship programs with secondary and
career and technical education programs; and
``(2) technical assistance on how to--
``(A) align related instruction and skills and
competencies for occupations suitable for
apprenticeship to high school graduation requirements;
``(B) offer related instruction through dual and
concurrent enrollment programs and other accelerated
learning programs, as described in section
4104(b)(3)(A)(i)(IV) of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7114(b)(3)(A)(i)(IV));
``(C) facilitate transitions for youth apprentices
who have completed their youth apprenticeships into
further education, including an associate,
baccalaureate, or advanced degree or related
apprenticeship opportunities; and
``(D) align activities carried out under this Act
with eligible funding from, and planning processes for,
the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act
of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.), the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et
seq.), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.), the Rehabilitation Act of
1973 (29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.), and the Higher Education
Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.).
``(c) Apprenticeship College Consortium.--In order to support the
establishment of a college consortium of postsecondary educational
institutions, including minority-serving institutions, related
instruction providers, sponsors, qualified intermediaries, employers,
labor organizations, and joint labor-management organizations for the
purposes of promoting stronger connections between apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs and participating 2-
and 4-year postsecondary educational institutions, the interagency
agreement under subsection (a)(1) shall include a description of how
the Secretaries will--
``(1) support data sharing systems that align education
records and records of apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and
youth apprenticeship programs regarding whether program
participants who receive financial aid under title IV of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.) enroll
in, or complete, postsecondary coursework while participating
in a program under such system;
``(2) provide guidance on how to align eligible funding
from, planning processes for, and the requirements of the Carl
D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (20
U.S.C. 2301 et seq.), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C.
720 et seq.), and the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1001 et seq.) with this Act;
``(3) require all participants of the apprenticeship
college consortium to enter into agreements to--
``(A) have an articulation agreement with a
participating sponsor of an apprenticeship program,
which may include a 2- or 4-year postsecondary
educational institution;
``(B) create or expand the awarding and
articulation of academic credit for related instruction
completed and credentials awarded to program
participants as part of an apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship program; and
``(C) support the creation or expansion of
electronic transcripts for apprenticeship programs and
all academic content, including related instruction and
on-the-job training;
``(4) provide technical assistance on eligible uses of
financial aid, including the Federal work study program under
part C of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1087-51 et seq.), for related instruction for programs
under the national apprenticeship system;
``(5) provide to consortium participants or potential
participants information regarding--
``(A) a list of apprenticeship programs in related
occupations offered in the State or available under the
Office of Apprenticeship that may become part of the
consortium;
``(B) information on how to develop an
apprenticeship program;
``(C) information on Federal, State, and local
financial resources available to assist with the
establishment and implementation of apprenticeship
programs; and
``(D) information on related qualified
intermediaries or industry or sector partnerships
supporting apprenticeship programs, as applicable; and
``(6) support information regarding the apprenticeship
consortium being made available on a publicly accessible
website, including--
``(A) a list of participating members of the
consortium, apprenticeship programs provided,
credentials awarded with each program, and available
occupations suitable for apprenticeship; and
``(B) models of articulation agreements, prior
learning assessments, and competency-based curriculum
for related instruction for illustrative purposes.
``(d) Best Practice Development and Sharing.--
``(1) Dissemination.--The interagency agreement under
subsection (a)(1) shall require that the Secretaries
disseminate information on the value of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs, including
relevant placement, retention, and earnings information, labor
market data from the local area, and sector forecasts to
determine high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors
or occupations of such programs, to local education and
training providers, labor organizations, or joint labor-
management organizations (including those representing
teachers).
``(2) Clearinghouse.--Such interagency agreement shall
require the Secretaries to create a clearinghouse of best
practices--
``(A) for improving performance and increasing
alignment of education and apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs; and
``(B) publicly disseminate information and
resources on--
``(i) replicable related instruction and
on-the-job learning; and
``(ii) how to build an understanding of
apprenticeship opportunities available to
students.
``(e) Data Sharing Agreement.--The Secretaries shall disseminate
best practices for the alignment of education records and records of
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs,
including information on program participants who enroll in, complete,
and receive academic credit for postsecondary coursework while
participating in such a program.
``(f) Secretaries Defined.--In this section, the term `Secretaries'
means the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Education.
``Subtitle B--Process and Standards for the National Apprenticeship
System
``SEC. 121. OCCUPATIONS SUITABLE FOR APPRENTICESHIP.
``(a) Application.--
``(1) In general.--For an occupation to be approved as an
occupation suitable for apprenticeship by the Administrator
under section 111(b)(5), a person seeking such approval shall
submit to the Administrator an application that demonstrates
demand from multiple employers in the occupation for an
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
program in such occupation that will prepare individuals for
the full range of skills and competencies needed for such
occupation.
``(2) Contents.--To demonstrate the demand referred to in
paragraph (1), an application submitted under paragraph (1)
with respect to a apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth
apprenticeship program in the occupation shall describe how the
program will--
``(A) meet the national occupational standards
under section 111(b)(5)(B); or
``(B) involve the progressive attainment of skills,
competencies, and knowledge that are--
``(i) clearly identified and commonly
recognized throughout the relevant industry or
occupation;
``(ii) customarily learned or enhanced in a
practical way through a structured, systematic
program of on-the-job supervised learning and
related instruction to supplement such
learning; and
``(iii) offered through a time-based,
competency-based, or hybrid model as described
in section 122(b)(1)(E).
``(b) Assessment.--
``(1) In general.--In assessing under section 111(b)(5)
whether a program in an occupation for which an application is
submitted under subsection (a) will meet the requirements of
subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (a)(2), the Administrator
shall--
``(A) conduct a comprehensive assessment of the
skills, techniques, and competencies required by the
occupation, which assesses whether such skills,
techniques, and competencies--
``(i) are specialized and acquired
optimally through a structured, systematic
training program involving close on-the-job
supervision and mentoring by subject-matter
experts;
``(ii) require--
``(I) at least 2,000 hours of on-
the-job learning and mentoring; or
``(II) an alternative amount of
time that is appropriate for the
occupation; and
``(iii) are acquired optimally through a
supplementary educational or instructional
component conveying theoretical and conceptual
knowledge relevant to the occupation;
``(B) determine whether the occupation is an
occupation that is commonly recognized throughout an
industry or sector; and
``(C) determine the extent to which the skills,
competencies, and knowledge required by the occupation
overlap with the skills, competencies, and knowledge of
an occupation suitable for an apprenticeship.
``(2) Prohibition on deskilling.--In a case in which the
Administrator determines under paragraph (1)(C) that the
skills, competencies, and knowledge of the occupation being
assessed under paragraph (1) significantly overlap with the
skills, competencies, and knowledge of an occupation suitable
for an apprenticeship, the Administrator may determine that the
occupation being so assessed--
``(A) is not an occupation suitable for
apprenticeship on the basis of such significant
overlap; or
``(B) in the case of such an occupation that
performs work classified in sector 23 of the most
recent publication of the North American Industry
Classification System, is an occupation suitable for
apprenticeship only if the industry sector leaders and
experts described in section 111(b)(5)(B)(ii)(II) with
respect to such occupation determine, by a consensus,
that such occupation is an occupation suitable for
apprenticeship.
``SEC. 122. QUALITY STANDARDS OF PROGRAMS UNDER THE NATIONAL
APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM.
``(a) In General.--The Secretary, acting through the Administrator,
shall formulate and promote the furtherance of quality standards
described under subsections (b) through (e) that are necessary to
safeguard the welfare of, as applicable, apprentices, pre-apprentices,
and youth apprentices.
``(b) Apprenticeship Program Standards.--In addition to the
standards described in subsection (e), an apprenticeship program shall
meet the following standards:
``(1) The program has an organized and clearly written
plan, developed by the sponsor, that includes, at a minimum,
the following information:
``(A) The employment and training to be received by
each apprentice participating in the program,
including--
``(i) an outline of the work processes or
the plan in which the apprentice will receive
supervised work experience, on-the-job
training, and on-the-job learning;
``(ii) the allocation of the approximate
amount of time that will be spent in each major
work process by the apprentice;
``(iii) a description of the mentoring that
will be provided to the apprentice; and
``(iv) a description or timeline explaining
the periodic reviews and evaluations of the
apprentice's performance on the job and in
related instruction.
``(B) A process for maintaining appropriate
progress records, including the reviews and evaluations
described in subparagraph (A)(iv).
``(C) A description of the organized related
instruction the apprentice will receive in technical
subjects related to the occupation, which--
``(i) for time-based or hybrid
apprenticeship programs as described in
paragraph (E), shall include not less than 144
hours for each year of apprenticeship, unless
an alternative requirement is put forth by the
employer and sponsor that reflects industry
standards and is accepted by the registration
agency;
``(ii) may be accomplished through
classroom instruction, occupational or industry
courses, instruction provided through
electronic media, or other instruction approved
by the registration agency;
``(iii) shall be provided by one or more
qualified instructors that--
``(I)(aa) meet technical instructor
requirements of the applicable
education agency in the State of
registration; or
``(bb) are subject matter experts
recognized within the industry as
having expertise in the occupation; and
``(II) have training in teaching
techniques and learning styles or will
obtain such training before providing
the related technical instruction;
``(iv) where appropriate and to the extent
practicable, shall be aligned to a career
pathway; and
``(v) where appropriate and to the extent
practicable, shall incorporate the principles
of universal design for learning.
``(D) A progressively increasing, clearly defined
schedule of wages to be paid to the apprentice that
is--
``(i) consistent with measurable skill
gains; and
``(ii) ensures the entry wage is not less
than the greater of--
``(I) the minimum wage required
under section 6(a) of the Fair Labor
Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C.
206(a)); or
``(II) the applicable wage required
by other applicable Federal or State
laws (including regulations) or by a
collective bargaining agreement.
``(E) The term of the apprenticeship program, which
may be measured using--
``(i) a time-based model, which requires
the completion of the industry standard for on-
the-job learning hours, which in no case shall
be less than a cumulative 2,000 hours, unless
an alternative requirement is put forth by the
employer and sponsor from a nontraditional
apprenticeship occupation as of the date of the
enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of
2023 that reflects industry standards and the
relative hazards of the occupation, and is
accepted by the Secretary and registration
agency;
``(ii) a competency-based model, which
requires the attainment of competency in the
occupation; or
``(iii) a hybrid model, which blends the
time-based and competency-based approaches.
``(F) The methods used to measure the skills and
competencies of an apprentice, which may include an
initial diagnostic assessment or assessment of
credentials that verify an individual's foundational
knowledge and skills that would be needed to succeed in
an apprenticeship program, and which shall include--
``(i) in the case of a time-based
apprenticeship described in subparagraph
(E)(i), the apprentice's completion of the
required hours of on-the-job learning as
described in a work process schedule;
``(ii) in the case of a competency-based
model described in subparagraph (E)(ii), the
apprentice's successful demonstration of
acquired skills and knowledge through
appropriate means of testing and evaluation for
such competencies, and by requiring apprentices
to complete a paid on-the-job learning
component of the apprenticeship; or
``(iii) in the case of a hybrid
apprenticeship described in subparagraph
(E)(iii), a combination of a specified minimum
number of hours of on-the-job learning and the
successful demonstration of competency, as
described in subparagraph (E)(i) and a work
process schedule.
``(2) The program equally grants advanced standing or
credit to all individuals applying for the apprenticeship with
demonstrated competency or acquired experience, training, or
skills and provides commensurate wages for any progression in
standing or credit so granted, including for veterans' service-
acquired skills and experiences.
``(3) The program has minimum qualifications for
individuals desiring to enter the apprenticeship program,
including an eligible starting age for an apprentice of not
less than 16 years.
``(4) In the case of a program that chooses to issue an
interim credential, the program--
``(A) clearly identifies each interim credential;
``(B) only issues an interim credential for
recognized components of an occupation suitable for
apprenticeship and demonstrates how each interim
credential specifically links to the knowledge, skills,
and abilities associated with such components; and
``(C) establishes the process for assessing an
individual apprentice's demonstration of competency and
measurable skill gains associated with the particular
interim credential.
``(c) Pre-Apprenticeship Program Standards.--In addition to the
standards described in subsection (e), a pre-apprenticeship program
shall meet the following standards:
``(1) The program is designed to assist individuals who do
not meet minimum qualifications for an apprenticeship program
as described in subsection (b)(3) and prepare them to enter and
succeed in such an apprenticeship program, including by
providing the skills and competency attainment needed to enter
the apprenticeship program.
``(2) The program--
``(A) is carried out by a sponsor that has a
written agreement with at least one sponsor of an
apprenticeship program;
``(B) demonstrates the existence of an active,
advisory partnership with an industry or sector
partnership to inform the training and education
services necessary for a pre-apprenticeship program;
``(C) demonstrates evidence of sufficient demand in
an apprenticeship program at the completion of a pre-
apprenticeship program to support a transition from a
pre-apprenticeship to an apprenticeship; and
``(D) demonstrates partnerships with qualified
intermediaries, community-based organizations, labor
organizations, or joint labor-management organizations.
``(3) The program includes a written plan developed by the
sponsor of the pre-apprenticeship program that is developed in
consultation with the sponsor of the apprenticeship program
described in paragraph (2)(A), that--
``(A) provides for paid work-based learning, to the
extent practicable, or simulated work experience, in
which an industry or sector partnership and a related
instruction provider collaborate to provide training
that will introduce participants to the skills,
competencies, and materials used in one or more
occupations suitable for apprenticeship;
``(B) is based on and aligned with national, State,
regional, or local industry standards for high-skill,
high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors and
occupations and with the requirements of the related
apprenticeship program;
``(C) to the extent appropriate and practicable,
meets the related instruction requirements as described
in clauses (ii) through (iv) of subsection (b)(1)(C)
that includes enabling an individual to attain a
secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent
that enables a pre-apprentice to enter into an
apprenticeship program; and
``(D) includes mentoring, career exposure, career
planning, and career awareness activities.
``(d) Youth Apprenticeship Program Standards.--In addition to the
standards described in subsection (e), a youth apprenticeship program
shall meet the following standards:
``(1) The program is designed for youth apprentices who, at
the start of the program, are enrolled in high school.
``(2) The program includes each of the following core
elements:
``(A) The employment and training to be received by
each youth apprentice participating in the program,
including--
``(i) an outline of the work processes or
the plan in which the youth apprentice will
receive supervised work experience and on-the-
job training or in an experiential setting;
``(ii) the allocation of the approximate
amount of time that will be spent in each major
work process by the youth apprentice;
``(iii) a description of the mentoring that
will be provided to the youth apprentice; and
``(iv) a description or timeline explaining
the periodic reviews and evaluations of the
youth apprentice's performance on the job and
in related instruction.
``(B) A process for maintaining appropriate
progress records, including the reviews and evaluations
described in subparagraph (A)(iv).
``(C) Related classroom-based instruction, which
may be fulfilled through dual or concurrent enrollment,
and--
``(i) is, to the extent practicable,
aligned with high school diploma requirements
and career clusters; and
``(ii) meets the additional requirements as
described in subsection (b)(1)(C).
``(D) A progressively increasing, clearly defined
schedule of wages to be paid to the youth apprentice.
``(E) The term of the youth apprenticeship program,
as described in subsection (b)(1)(E).
``(F) For a competency-based or hybrid youth
apprenticeship program, the methods used to measure
skill acquisition for a youth apprentice, including
ongoing assessment against established skill and
competency standards as described in subsection
(b)(1)(F).
``(G) Prepares the youth apprentice for placement
in further education, employment, or an apprenticeship
program.
``(3) The program equally grants advanced standing or
credit to all individuals applying for the youth apprenticeship
with demonstrated competency or acquired experience, training,
or skills.
``(4) In the case of a youth apprenticeship program that
chooses to issue an interim credential, the program meets the
requirements of subsection (b)(4).
``(e) General Requirements.--Each apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship program shall meet the
following standards:
``(1) The program is for an occupation suitable for
apprenticeship.
``(2) The program--
``(A) has adequate and safe equipment,
environments, and facilities for training and
supervision;
``(B) provides safety training on-the-job and, as
applicable for the occupation suitable for
apprenticeship, in related instruction; and
``(C) provides adequate training for mentors and
qualified instructors on providing a safe work and
training environment.
``(3) The program records and maintains all records
concerning the program, as may be required by the Secretary,
the registration agency of the program, or any other applicable
law, including records required under title 38, United States
Code, in order for veterans and other individuals eligible for
educational assistance under such title to use such assistance
for enrollment in the program.
``(4) The program provides--
``(A) all individuals with an equal opportunity to
participate in the program as described in section
111(b)(7)(B); and
``(B) materials that meet, at a minimum,
conformance to Level AA of the Web Content
Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 of the Web Accessibility
Initiative (or any successor guidelines).
``(5) The program awards a certificate of completion in
recognition of successful completion of the program, evidenced
by an appropriate certificate issued by the registration
agency, and in the case of apprenticeships and youth
apprenticeships, prepares a program participant to obtain a
recognized postsecondary credential.
``(6) The program provides that an individual who is to
become a program participant under the program enters into a
written apprenticeship agreement described in section 123 with
the sponsor of the program.
``(7) The numeric ratio of program participants to
supervisors (such as journeyworkers, mentors, or on-the-job
learning instructors, as applicable) for the occupation
suitable for apprenticeship--
``(A) is, except in the case of a program in a
rural area that demonstrates need or a shortage of
available individuals to serve as supervisors, based on
evidence-based and evidence-informed best practices for
supervision, training, safety, and continuity of
employment, throughout the work processes of the
program, job site, department, or plant, appropriate
for the degree of hazard in different occupations;
``(B) except if such ratios are expressly
prohibited by a collective bargaining agreement, is
consistent with provisions in any applicable collective
bargaining agreements; and
``(C) does not contravene the application of other
Federal or State laws that may establish more
protective standards with respect to the establishment
of ratios of apprentices to journeyworkers, including
any rules or orders promulgated under the Fair Labor
Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.) with
respect to the employment, training, and supervision of
16- and 17-year-old youth apprentices in certain
hazardous occupations.
``SEC. 123. APPRENTICESHIP AGREEMENTS.
``(a) In General.--To ensure the standards described in section 122
are applied to apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs, the Administrator shall require a sponsor to
develop an apprenticeship agreement that shall--
``(1) be the same for each program participant;
``(2) contain the names and signatures of the program
participant and the sponsor;
``(3) meet the requirements of subsection (b); and
``(4) as required under section 124(b)(3)(B), be submitted
by the sponsor to the registration agency and the
Administrator.
``(b) Standards.--Each agreement under subsection (a) shall
contain, explicitly or by reference, each applicable program standard
under section 122, including--
``(1) in the case of an apprenticeship program--
``(A) that is time-based, a statement of the number
of hours to be spent by the program participant in on-
the-job learning and on-the-job training in order to
complete the program;
``(B) that is competency-based, a description of
the skill sets to be attained by completion of the
program, including the on-the-job learning and work
components; or
``(C) that is a hybrid model, the minimum number of
hours to be spent by the program participant in on-the-
job learning and work components and in related
instruction and a description of the skill sets and
competencies to be attained by completion of the
program;
``(2) the number of hours and form of related instruction,
including how related instruction will be compensated (whether
through academic credit, wages, or both), the costs the program
participant will incur for participating in the program (such
as for equipment, related instruction, or assessment or
licensure fees), and the recognized postsecondary credentials
the program participants will be eligible to receive upon
program completion;
``(3) a schedule of the work processes in the occupation or
industry divisions in which the program participant is to be
trained and the approximate time to be spent at each process;
``(4) for apprenticeships or youth apprenticeships, the
graduated wage scale to be paid to the apprentices, benefits
offered to the apprentices, and how the wages and benefits
compare to State, local, or regional wages in the related
occupation; and
``(5) demonstration of commitment to and compliance with
section 111(b)(7)(B).
``(c) Collective Bargaining.--Nothing in an apprenticeship
agreement or this Act shall operate to invalidate an applicable
provision in a collective bargaining agreement between employers and
employees establishing higher standards for apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship programs.
``SEC. 124. REGISTRATION OF PROGRAMS UNDER THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP
SYSTEM.
``(a) Program Registration Application.--Except as provided in
subsection (b)(4), each registration agency shall, in accordance with
subsection (b) and any regulations promulgated by the Administrator,
register any program as an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth
apprenticeship program for which a sponsor applying to register such a
program submits the information required by the registration agency,
including--
``(1) information demonstrating that each of the applicable
requirements of section 122 will be met for the program;
``(2) a copy of the apprenticeship agreement described in
section 123 used by the sponsor;
``(3) a written assurance that, if the program is
registered under this subsection, the sponsor will--
``(A) administer the program in accordance with the
requirements of this Act and comply with the
requirements of the apprenticeship agreement; and
``(B) enroll at least 1 program participant; and
``(4) a description of the methods the sponsor will use to
report performance data to the registration agency describing,
as required by the registration agency, outcomes associated
with the program--
``(A) for a sponsor with fewer than 5 program
participants, on an annual basis; or
``(B) for a sponsor with 5 or more program
participants, on a quarterly basis.
``(b) Recognition and Registration Process.--
``(1) Review and approval process.--
``(A) Provisional approval review.--A registration
agency that determines an application to register a
program as an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or
youth apprenticeship program submitted under subsection
(a) meets the requirements described in such subsection
shall register such program for a provisional 1-year
period beginning not later than 30 days after such
application is submitted. During such period, the
registration agency shall accept and record the
apprenticeship agreement as evidence of the program's
compliance and registration to operate such program.
``(B) Full approval or extended provisional
approval.--Not later than the last day of the
provisional registration period for a program described
in subparagraph (A), the registration agency providing
provisional approval under such subparagraph shall
review the program to ensure the program meets each
applicable quality standard under section 122 and
complies with all other applicable program requirements
under this Act and--
``(i) if the registration agency determines
that the program meets and complies with the
standards and requirements, the registration
agency shall register the program; or
``(ii) if the registration agency
determines that the program fails to meet or
comply with the requirements or standards, the
registration agency may--
``(I) in accordance with
subparagraph (C), extend the
provisional registration of the program
under subparagraph (A) through the
first full training cycle for program
participants and conduct an additional
provisional review at the conclusion of
the training cycle; or
``(II) deregister such program in
accordance with the procedures
described under paragraph (3) of
section 131(d) as if the registration
agency made the determination described
under paragraph (1)(B) of such section
with respect to the program.
``(C) Extended provisional approval.--In the case
of a program that has a provisional registration under
subparagraph (A) extended under subparagraph
(B)(ii)(I), the registration agency shall--
``(i) provide technical assistance
described in 131(c) and take corrective action
for the program described in 131(d)(1)(A); and
``(ii) not later than the end of the first
full training cycle for program participants in
such program, review the program to ensure the
program meets each applicable quality standard
under section 122 and complies with all other
applicable program requirements under this Act
and--
``(I) if the registration agency
determines that the program meets and
complies with the standards and
requirements, the registration agency
shall register the program; or
``(II) if the registration agency
determines that the program fails to
meet or comply with the requirements or
standards, deregister such program in
accordance with the procedures
described under paragraph (3) of
section 131(d) as if the registration
agency made the determination described
under paragraph (1)(B) of such section
with respect to the program.
``(2) Certificate of registration.--
``(A) In general.--A registration agency that
registers a program as an apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship program under
paragraph (1) shall--
``(i) provide the sponsor of the program
with a certificate of registration or other
written evidence of registration; and
``(ii) as applicable, provide a copy of the
certificate of registration, or other written
evidence of registration, to the Secretary of
Veterans Affairs or the applicable State
veterans agency for the purpose of aligning the
registration process with the process for
approving such program for eligible veterans'
use of supplemental educational assistance
benefits.
``(B) Registration name.--A certificate of
registration or other written evidence of registration
under subparagraph (A)(i) shall be in the name of the
sponsor.
``(3) Program participant registration.--A sponsor of an
apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
program registered in accordance with paragraph (1) shall
provide to any individual seeking to be a program participant
the opportunity to apply through the sponsor and shall--
``(A) enter into a written apprenticeship agreement
described in section 123 with any such individual
accepted by the sponsor for a program before the
commencement of the program; and
``(B) register each program participant with the
applicable registration agency by, except as otherwise
required by the registration agency, filing a copy of
the apprenticeship agreement with the registration
agency and, as required under section 123(a)(4),
sharing such a copy with the Administrator.
``(4) Transition process for previously approved
programs.--With respect to an apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship program that was
registered under this Act as of the day before the date of
enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023, the
applicable registration agency for such program shall take such
steps as necessary to--
``(A) in the case of a program that meets the
requirements of this Act, maintain the status of the
sponsor of the program as of the date before such date
of enactment as the sponsor of such program under this
Act; and
``(B) in the case of a program that does not meet
the requirements of this Act, provide technical
assistance to the sponsor of such program to ensure
that the sponsor is in compliance with this Act not
later than 3 years after the date of enactment of the
National Apprenticeship Act of 2023.
``(c) Modifications or Changes to Youth Apprenticeship, Pre-
Apprenticeship, or Apprenticeship Programs.--
``(1) Sponsor proposal.--Any sponsor that wishes to modify
an apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
program, including a modification to the method of the program
for meeting the standards required under this Act, shall submit
a proposal for the modification to the registration agency for
the program for consideration in accordance with paragraph (2).
``(2) Registration agency requirements.--
``(A) In general.--With respect to a proposal for
modification submitted to a registration agency under
paragraph (1), the registration agency shall, not later
than 60 days after receipt of the proposal--
``(i) approve the proposal under
subparagraph (B) or disapprove the proposal
under subparagraph (C); and
``(ii) notify the sponsor of the
determination.
``(B) Approval of proposal.--If the proposal is
approved, the registration agency shall, not later than
30 days after the date of approval, amend the record of
the program to reflect the modification and provide the
sponsor with an acknowledgment of the amended program.
``(C) Disapproval of proposal.--If the proposal is
not approved, the registration agency shall--
``(i) notify the sponsor of the reasons for
the disapproval and provide the sponsor with
technical assistance to maintain the program as
originally registered; and
``(ii) provide the sponsor with the
opportunity to submit a revised proposal under
paragraph (1), including providing appropriate
technical assistance to modify the proposal in
order to meet the requirements of this Act.
``(d) List of Deregistered Programs and Disapproved Proposals.--
Each registration agency shall--
``(1) maintain a list of programs that were deregistered
under subparagraph (B)(ii)(II) or subparagraph (C)(ii)(II) of
subsection (b)(1) and of proposals disapproved under subsection
(c)(2)(C), including the reasons for each such deregistration
or disapproval; and
``(2) not less than annually, provide such list to the
Administrator.
``Subtitle C--Evaluations and Research
``SEC. 131. PROGRAM EVALUATIONS.
``(a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to provide program
performance transparency across the national apprenticeship system,
assess the effectiveness of States in achieving positive outcomes for
program participants served by those programs, and establish
performance accountability measures related to program completion and
key indicators of performance under the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.).
``(b) Reviews by Registration Agencies.--
``(1) Performance reviews.--
``(A) In general.--Each registration agency shall--
``(i) annually collect performance data for
each apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and
youth apprenticeship program registered under
section 124 by such agency to determine--
``(I) the performance of the
program with respect to any applicable
indicators of performance under section
116(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3141(b)(2)(A)(i)) or, in the
case of a youth apprenticeship program,
section 116(b)(2)(A)(ii) of such Act
(29 U.S.C. 3141(b)(2)(A)(ii)); and
``(II) the completion rates of the
program;
``(ii) as necessary, provide technical
assistance to apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship
programs for the collection of the information
under clause (i) and subparagraph (B)(i);
``(iii) comply with the report requirements
under subparagraph (B); and
``(iv) provide data collected under clause
(i) and subparagraph (B), disaggregated in
accordance with clause (ii) of subparagraph
(B), to the independent entity conducting the
evaluations on behalf of the Secretary under
section 132.
``(B) Reports.--
``(i) In general.--The registration agency
for a State shall annually prepare and submit
to the Administrator a State performance report
that contains the information described in
clause (iii) and, with respect to each program
registered by such registration agency under
section 124, includes the following:
``(I) Information specifying the
levels of performance described in
subparagraph (A) for the program, as
compared to goals set in section
113(c)(7)(A)(i).
``(II) The disaggregated (in
accordance with clause (ii))
percentages of program participants
from the program as compared to the
disaggregated (in accordance with such
clause) percentages within the working
age population in the geographical area
from which the sponsor usually seeks or
reasonably could seek program
participants and who meet the minimum
eligibility requirements for entry into
the program.
``(III) The percentage of program
participants from the program that
obtained unsubsidized employment in a
field related to the occupation
suitable for apprenticeship of the
program participant.
``(IV) The average time to
completion for the program as compared
to the description in the agreement
under paragraphs (1) and (2) of section
123(b).
``(V) The average cost per
participant of the program during the
most recent program year and, as
applicable, the 3 preceding program
years.
``(VI) The percentage of program
participants from the program who
received supportive services.
``(ii) Disaggregation.--The performance
data described in subclauses (I) through (VI)
of clause (i) shall be disaggregated--
``(I) by the program type
(apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship,
or pre-apprenticeship program)
involved; and
``(II) by race, ethnicity, sex,
age, veteran status, and membership in
a population specified in section 3(24)
of the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3102(24)).
``(iii) State activities.--The information
described in this clause is information on the
activities of the registration agency required
under section 113(c), including the uses of
funds with respect to such activities.
``(C) Reports to congress.--Not later than 60 days
after receiving a report under subparagraph (B), the
Secretary shall transmit to the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the
Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House
of Representatives.
``(D) Publication.--Not later than 30 days after
receipt of each report received under subparagraph (B),
the Administrator shall make available on a publicly
accessible website such report.
``(2) Comprehensive program reviews.--
``(A) In general.--Each registration agency shall,
in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C), review
each apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship program registered under section 124 by
such registration agency to ensure the program meets
each applicable quality standard under section 122 and
complies with all other applicable program requirements
under this Act.
``(B) Timing of reviews.--A review described in
subparagraph (A) with respect to a program shall--
``(i) for the initial review, occur at the
end of the first full training cycle of program
participants under the program; and
``(ii) for every review thereafter, occur
at least once every 5 years.
``(C) Review.--A review described in subparagraph
(A) with respect to a program shall be a comprehensive
review regarding all aspects of the program
performance, including--
``(i) determining whether the registration
agency is receiving notification from the
sponsor of the program regarding individuals
who are registered as new youth apprentices,
pre-apprentices, or apprentices under the
program, or who successfully complete the
program;
``(ii) determining whether the sponsor of
the program is complying with all other
requirements of this Act applicable to the
sponsor;
``(iii) evaluating the performance of the
sponsor with respect to, at a minimum, the
indicators described in paragraph (1)(A)(i),
with the performance data disaggregated as
described in paragraph (1)(B)(viii); and
``(iv) ensuring the compliance of the
sponsor with the requirement to provide equal
opportunity in recruitment, training, and
employment as described in section
111(b)(7)(B).
``(D) Reports.--On completion of a review under
this paragraph, the registration agency shall prepare
and submit to the Administrator a report containing the
results of the review.
``(c) Technical Assistance.--After completion of a review under
subsection (b)(2) with respect to a program, the registration agency
shall identify areas of the program that require technical assistance
and provide such technical assistance to the sponsor of the program,
including--
``(1) to support the sponsor in establishing a plan to meet
the applicable State goals established under section
113(c)(7)(A)(ii); and
``(2) assistance in the development of a performance
improvement plan if the registration agency determines,
pursuant to any review under subsection (b)(2), that the
program--
``(A) is not in operation;
``(B) is not in compliance with the requirements of
this Act or fails to meet an applicable quality
standard under section 122; or
``(C) is achieving levels of performance on any
indicator described in subclause (I) or (II) of
subsection (b)(1)(A)(i) that is lower than the State
goals established under section 113(c)(7)(A)(i) for any
program year.
``(d) Corrective Action and Deregistration of an Apprenticeship
Program.--
``(1) In general.--After completion of a review under
subsection (b)(2) with respect to a youth apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or apprenticeship program, the registration
agency may--
``(A) assist the program in meeting any applicable
quality standard under section 122 or in coming into
compliance with all other applicable program
requirements under this Act; and
``(B) if the program does not, within a time period
set by the Administrator, meet such quality standard or
come into compliance with such requirements, determine,
in accordance with paragraph (2), if the program should
be deregistered in accordance with paragraph (3).
``(2) Determination regarding deregistration.--
``(A) In general.--For purposes of paragraph
(1)(B), the registration agency shall determine a
program should be deregistered in accordance with
paragraph (3) if the registration agency determines
that the program demonstrates, as described in
subparagraph (B), persistent and significant failure to
perform successfully.
``(B) Persistent and significant failure to perform
successfully.--For purposes of subparagraph (A), a
program demonstrates a persistent and significant
failure to perform successfully if--
``(i) the sponsor of the program
consistently fails to register at least 1
program participant;
``(ii) the program shows a pattern of poor
results on the indicators described in
subclause (I) or (II) of subsection
(b)(1)(A)(i) over a period of 3 years, given
the characteristics of program participants and
economic conditions in the area served;
``(iii) the program shows no indication of
improvement in the areas identified by the
registration agency under subsection (c),
including in the performance improvement plan
under paragraph (1) of such subsection; or
``(iv) the sponsor has not administered the
program in accordance with the program's
registration application under section 124 or
with the requirements of this Act.
``(3) Deregistration.--
``(A) Notification and hearing.--If a registration
agency makes a determination under paragraph (1)(B)
with respect to a program, the registration agency
shall notify the Secretary and the sponsor of the
determination in writing and permit the sponsor to
appeal such determination to an Administrative Law
Judge for the Department of Labor. The registration
agency shall transmit to the Secretary a report
containing all pertinent facts and circumstances
concerning the determination, including findings and a
recommendation for deregistration, and copies of all
relevant documents and records. If the sponsor does not
request the hearing not later than 15 days after
receiving such notification, the registration agency
shall deregister the program.
``(B) Notification and treatment of apprentices.--
Not later than 15 days after the registration agency
deregisters a program under subparagraph (A), the
sponsor shall notify each program participant of the
program--
``(i) of such deregistration and the
effective date of the deregistration;
``(ii) that such deregistration
automatically deprives the program participant
of individual registration as part of such
program, including the ability to receive a
certificate of completion from the registration
agency;
``(iii) that the deregistration of the
program removes the program participant from
eligibility for any Federal financial
assistance or other assistance, or rights,
privileges, or exemptions under Federal law,
that--
``(I) relates to an apprentice; and
``(II) requires the registration
agency's approval; and
``(iv) that all youth apprentices, pre-
apprentices, or apprentices are referred to the
registration agency for information about
potential transfers to other apprenticeship,
pre-apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
programs.
``SEC. 132. NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM RESEARCH.
``(a) Research.--The Secretary shall conduct, through an
independent entity, research for the purpose of improving the
management and effectiveness of the youth apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and apprenticeship programs and activities carried out
under this Act and to assist in the evaluation of the programs under
section 131.
``(b) Techniques.--The research conducted under subsection (a)
shall use appropriate methodology and research designs.
``(c) Contents.--Such research shall address--
``(1) the general effectiveness of such programs and
activities in relation to their cost, including the extent to
which the programs and activities--
``(A) improve the skill and employment competencies
of participants in comparison to comparably situated
individuals who did not participate in such programs
and activities;
``(B) to the extent feasible, increase the levels
of total employment, of attainment of recognized
postsecondary credentials, and of measurable skills,
above the levels that would have existed in the absence
of such programs and activities;
``(C) respond to the needs reflected in labor
market data in the local area of the program or
activity and align with high-skill, high-wage, or in-
demand industries or occupations;
``(D) demonstrate a return on investment of
Federal, State, local, sponsor, employer, and other
funding for apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and
youth apprenticeship programs, capturing the full level
of investment in, and impact of, such programs; and
``(E) regularly assess the impact of such programs
in effectively increasing the participation of
nontraditional apprenticeship populations, such as
women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, long-
term unemployed, individuals impacted by the criminal
and juvenile justice system, foster and former foster
youth, and individuals with barriers to employment;
``(2) the impact of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023
on the general effectiveness of apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, and youth apprenticeship programs, including on
the implementation of policies such as dual or concurrent
enrollment programs, advanced standing, or national
occupational standards;
``(3) best practices for increasing participation of
nontraditional apprenticeship populations and individuals with
barriers to employment, including individuals with
disabilities, in apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and youth
apprenticeship programs; and
``(4) opportunities to scale up effective models under the
national apprenticeship system.
``(d) Reports.--
``(1) Independent entity.--The Secretary shall require the
independent entity carrying out the research under subsection
(a) to prepare and submit to the Secretary--
``(A) an interim report containing findings from
the research; and
``(B) a final report containing the results of the
research, including policy recommendations.
``(2) Reports to congress.--Not later than 60 days after
receipt of the interim report and final report described in
subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1), respectively, the
Secretary shall submit each report to the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee
on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives.
``(e) Public Access.--Not later than 60 days after the receipt of
the interim report and the receipt of the final report, the Secretary
shall make each such report available on a publicly accessible website.
``Subtitle D--General Provisions
``SEC. 141. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) Office of Apprenticeship.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out sections 111, 112, 131, and 132--
``(1) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(2) $60,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(3) $70,000,000 for fiscal year 2027;
``(4) $80,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and
``(5) $90,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.
``(b) Interagency Agreement.--There are authorized to be
appropriated to carry out section 114--
``(1) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(2) $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(3) $14,000,000 for fiscal year 2027;
``(4) $16,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and
``(5) $18,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.
``TITLE II--MODERNIZING THE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM FOR THE 21ST
CENTURY
``SEC. 201. AWARD REQUIREMENTS.
``(a) Authority.--
``(1) In general.--The Administrator shall award grants,
contracts, or cooperative agreements to eligible entities on a
competitive basis for apprenticeship modernization projects for
1 or more of the following purposes:
``(A) Creation and expansion activities.--To expand
the offerings of programs under the national
apprenticeship system--
``(i) to create new apprenticeship programs
in a nontraditional apprenticeship occupation,
such as apprenticeship programs for which the
eligible entity demonstrates demand in advanced
manufacturing (including semiconductor and
automotive manufacturing), cybersecurity and
information technology, computer science, clean
energy, renewable energy, environmental
protection, and conservation, transportation,
health care, or education (including early
childhood education);
``(ii) to expand existing apprenticeship
programs in fields for which the eligible
entity demonstrates labor market demand;
``(iii) to create new or expand existing
pre-apprenticeship programs;
``(iv) to create new or expand existing
youth apprenticeship programs; or
``(v) through a Rural Apprenticeship
Demonstration Program (referred to in this
section and section 202 as the `Rural Program')
established by the Administrator, to create or
expand apprenticeship programs that target or
serve individuals and workforce needs in a
rural area (referred to individually in this
section and section 202 as a `rural
apprenticeship program'), that--
``(I) lacks road connections, in
which communities are accessible only
by water or air;
``(II) is located 50 road miles
from a metropolitan statistical area;
or
``(III) has zero program
participants in an apprenticeship
program.
``(B) Encouraging employer participation.--To
encourage employer participation in covered
apprenticeship programs--
``(i) that target individuals with barriers
to employment, in apprenticeship, pre-
apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
programs, prioritizing nontraditional
apprenticeship populations such as women,
minorities, Indigenous people, English
learners, long-term unemployed individuals,
individuals with disabilities, individuals with
substance abuse issues, veterans, military
spouses, individuals experiencing homelessness,
formerly incarcerated individuals (including
individuals currently or recently
incarcerated), and foster and former foster
youth;
``(ii) that are in high-need social
service-related industries, sectors, or
occupations, such as industries, sectors, or
occupations related to direct care workers and
early childhood, elementary school, and
secondary school educators; or
``(iii) among small- and medium-sized
businesses.
``(C) Intermediary awards.--To establish or expand
to significant scale sector-based partnerships for the
development or expansion of covered apprenticeship
programs through--
``(i) national industry qualified
intermediaries in key sectors, including
manufacturing, information technology, cyber
security, health care, insurance and finance,
energy, hospitality, retail, construction, and
other sectors identified by the Administrator
(with the advice of the Advisory Committee) as
targeted for expansion under the national
apprenticeship system;
``(ii) national equity qualified
intermediaries serving nontraditional
apprenticeship populations such as women,
minorities, Indigenous people, individuals with
disabilities, and formerly incarcerated
individuals; or
``(iii) local or regional qualified
intermediaries serving covered apprenticeship
programs.
``(D) Educational alignment.--To strengthen
alignment between entities carrying out covered
apprenticeship programs and education and training
providers serving secondary, postsecondary, or adult
education systems, including aligning degree and
credential requirements.
``(2) Duration.--
``(A) In general.--Except as described in
subparagraphs (B) and (C), the Administrator shall make
an award under this section for a period of not more
than 3 years.
``(B) Extension.--The eligible entity may apply
for, and the Administrator may grant, an extension of
the period of the award for not more than 1 additional
2-year period, if the recipient demonstrates to the
Administrator that the recipient--
``(i) has effectively implemented an
apprenticeship modernization project to achieve
its stated purpose as described in subsections
(e) and (f);
``(ii) has complied with the assurances
described in subsection (e)(9); and
``(iii) has improved applicable outcomes,
as demonstrated through indicators referred to
in subparagraphs (C) through (I) of section
203(a)(2).
``(C) Rural program awards.--The Administrator
shall make an award under this section for a purpose
described in paragraph (1)(A)(v) for a period of not
more than 5 years.
``(b) Funding Requirements.--
``(1) Matching funds required.--The Administrator shall
require, as a condition of receipt of funds under this section,
an eligible entity to match funds awarded to such eligible
entity under this section with an amount of not less than 25
percent of the funds awarded to such eligible entity under this
section. Such eligible entity may make the matching funds
available directly or through donations from non-Federal
organizations, in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated.
``(2) Waiver.--The Administrator may waive the requirement
under paragraph (1) if the entity demonstrates that--
``(A) exceptional circumstances or other factors
prevent the entity from meeting the requirement, such
as--
``(i) demonstrating that the entity serves
a high proportion of individuals with barriers
to employment; or
``(ii) demonstrating that the entity serves
a frontier State or another low-density area as
defined by the Secretary; or
``(B) due to exceptional or uncontrollable
circumstances, such as a natural disaster or a
precipitous and unforeseen decline in the financial
resources of the eligible entity.
``(c) Priority and Distribution.--
``(1) Priority.--In making awards under this section, the
Administrator shall give priority to an eligible entity--
``(A) proposing to serve in covered apprenticeship
programs assisted through the apprenticeship
modernization program a high number or high percentage
of program participants who are from nontraditional
apprenticeship populations; and
``(B) providing opportunities in high-wage, high-
skill, or in-demand sectors and occupations.
``(2) Geographic distribution.--In making awards under this
subsection, the Administrator shall, to the extent practicable,
ensure a geographically diverse distribution of such awards,
including a geographically diverse distribution among regions
of the country and among urban, suburban, and rural areas.
``(d) Eligible Entity.--To be eligible to apply for an award under
this title, an entity shall--
``(1) demonstrate a partnership with entities or officials
from two or more categories consisting of--
``(A) a State or local workforce development board
or State or local workforce agency;
``(B) an education and training provider, or a
consortium thereof;
``(C) a State apprenticeship agency;
``(D) an Indian Tribe or Tribal organization;
``(E)(i) an industry or sector partnership, a group
of employers, or a trade association; or
``(ii) a professional association that sponsors or
participates in a covered apprenticeship program;
``(F) a Governor;
``(G) a labor organization or joint labor-
management organization;
``(H) a community-based organization that assists
program participants in accessing supportive services;
or
``(I) a qualified intermediary; and
``(2) to the extent practicable--
``(A) be part of an industry or sector partnership;
and
``(B) partner with a labor organization or joint
labor-management organization.
``(e) General Application Requirements.--To be eligible to receive
an award under this section for an apprenticeship modernization
project, an entity shall submit to the Administrator an application
that includes a description of each of the following:
``(1) Each purpose, as listed in a clause, or in
subparagraph (D), of subsection (a)(1), for which the applicant
intends to use such award.
``(2) Each entity with which the eligible entity is
partnered or engaged under subsection (d) and the role of each
such entity in carrying out the apprenticeship modernization
project.
``(3) The ability of the applicant, directly or through
partners--
``(A) to enroll, instruct, advance, and graduate
program participants in the covered apprenticeship
program assisted through the award, and enable the
program participants to gain employment after program
completion;
``(B) to support (including by providing technical
assistance) program sponsors and employers (especially
small- and medium-sized businesses) in the creation of,
recruitment for, and execution of covered
apprenticeship programs; and
``(C) to provide opportunities to rural
communities, as applicable.
``(4) A labor market analysis with respect to the
geographic area of service that demonstrates--
``(A) in the case of an apprenticeship
modernization project described in subsection
(a)(1)(A), the need to create or expand the covered
apprenticeship program assisted through the award; and
``(B) a plan to align the covered apprenticeship
program assisted through the award with the labor
market needs of high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand
industry sectors or occupations.
``(5) A plan--
``(A) to comply with requirements for evaluations
and reports under section 203;
``(B) as appropriate, to coordinate activities
assisted under the award with activities carried out
under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical
Education Act of 2006 (20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.), the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 6301 et seq.), the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.), the Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.), and any
related Federal programs and if appropriate, how funds
provided under those Acts or related programs will be
leveraged in support of the covered apprenticeship
program assisted by the award;
``(C) to use funds awarded under this section in
support of that program, as described in section 202;
``(D) to continue the program after the period of
the award ends;
``(E) to recruit and retain program participants
for covered apprenticeship programs, including program
participants from nontraditional apprenticeship
populations, such as women, minorities, Indigenous
people, individuals with disabilities, formerly
incarcerated individuals, and individuals with barriers
to employment;
``(F) to ensure the program participants are able
to access supportive services, as applicable; and
``(G) to comply with the equal opportunity
requirements for diversity described in section
111(b)(7)(B) and requirements for complaint resolution
under section 113(c)(5), as applicable.
``(6) For any award to expand an existing covered
apprenticeship program, a description of--
``(A) a plan to coordinate the apprenticeship
modernization project carried out under the award with
the existing program; and
``(B) the effectiveness of the covered
apprenticeship program to be expanded under the award,
including demonstrations of programmatic components
such as program costs to employers and to program
participants, completion and placement rates,
credential attainment, diversity in program participant
populations served, any increases in program
participant wages and benefits, and services provided
to employers and program participants.
``(7) A description of potential program participants in
the covered apprenticeship program assisted under the award and
strategies to support recruitment, retention, and completion
for such program participants, including, to the extent
practicable, nontraditional apprenticeship populations and
individuals with barriers to employment.
``(8) A description of strategies to recruit and support
employers involved in the covered apprenticeship program.
``(9) Assurances that the eligible entity will--
``(A) provide information to the Administrator, as
requested, for such evaluations as the Administrator
may carry out;
``(B) make program performance data collected under
section 131 for the covered apprenticeship program
assisted under the award available (in accordance with
applicable data privacy laws, including section 444 of
the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g)
and section 5 of this Act) to independent evaluators to
enable the evaluators to prepare the evaluations and
research reports described in paragraphs (1) and (2) of
section 203(a); and
``(C) coordinate the apprenticeship modernization
project carried out under the award with a State
apprenticeship agency, if such agency exists in the
State where the eligible entity is applying for an
award or carrying out the project, or the State office
of apprenticeship.
``(f) Additional Application Requirements.--The Administrator shall
require an eligible entity applying for an award under this title to
include as part of the entity's application referred to in subsection
(e) the following information, as applicable:
``(1) Creation and expansion activities.--
``(A) New apprenticeship programs.--An eligible
entity applying to create a new apprenticeship program
and carry out the purpose described in subsection
(a)(1)(A)(i) shall include as part of the application a
description of employers, and to the extent
practicable, labor organizations or joint labor-
management organizations, engaged in the program
creation.
``(B) Expanding apprenticeship programs.--An
eligible entity applying to expand an existing
apprenticeship program and carry out the purpose
described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(ii) shall include as
part of the application a description of employers
engaged in the program expansion.
``(C) Creating or expanding pre-apprenticeship
programs.--An eligible entity applying to create or
expand a pre-apprenticeship program and carry out the
purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(iii) shall
include as part of the application a description of--
``(i) a partnership between the eligible
entity and at least one sponsor of an
apprenticeship program; and
``(ii) an existing partnership with an
employer acting in either an advisory capacity
or actively participating in the pre-
apprenticeship program.
``(D) Creating or expanding youth apprenticeship
programs.--An eligible entity applying to create or
expand a youth apprenticeship program and carry out the
purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(iv) shall
include as part of the application a description of--
``(i) an existing partnership with at least
one high school offering related instruction
for the youth apprenticeship program, with--
``(I) integration into the academic
content of the high school diploma
requirements; or
``(II) demonstrated plans for
integration of related instruction into
that academic content; and
``(ii) an existing partnership with an
employer acting in either an advisory capacity
or actively participating in the youth
apprenticeship program.
``(E) Creating or expanding rural apprenticeship
programs.--An eligible entity applying to create or
expand a rural apprenticeship program and carry out the
purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(A)(v) shall
include as part of the application a description of how
the program will address workforce needs.
``(2) Encouraging employer participation.--
``(A) Individuals with barriers to employment.--An
eligible entity applying to encourage employer
participation in a covered apprenticeship program that
targets individuals with barriers to employment and
carry out the purpose described in subsection
(a)(1)(B)(i) shall include as part of the application a
description of--
``(i) specific strategies to target both
individuals with barriers to employment and
employers for participation in the program; and
``(ii) a partnership with organizations
that assist program participants in accessing
supportive services to support recruitment,
retention, and completion of the program by
program participants.
``(B) Individuals currently or recently
incarcerated.--An eligible entity applying to encourage
employer participation in an apprenticeship or pre-
apprenticeship program that targets individuals
currently or recently incarcerated and carry out the
purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(B)(i) shall
include as part of their application a description of--
``(i) a plan to assist the program
participants in obtaining the documentation and
work authorization necessary to participate in
such program;
``(ii) a partnership with an organization
that will assist program participants in
accessing activities to improve financial
literacy and supportive services;
``(iii) how the assessment used to support
the placement of potential program participants
into the program accurately reflects the
program participants' skills and competencies;
``(iv) a plan to provide information about
resources to program participants to address
mental health or substance abuse issues;
``(v) a partnership with organizations that
support--
``(I) the transition from
incarceration to re-entry, such as
organizations that provide assistance
with housing, transportation, child
care, and legal services; and
``(II) successful completion of an
apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship
program;
``(vi) wages and benefits offered to
program participants that are commensurate with
wages and benefits for similar work in the
State or local area, as allowable; and
``(vii) alignment of the program described
in the application with the requirements and
benefits of the Federal Bonding Program of the
Department of Labor and the Prison Industry
Enhancement Certification Program of the Bureau
of Justice Assistance of the Department of
Justice for employers participating in
apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship programs.
``(C) High-need social service-related
industries.--An eligible entity applying to encourage
employer participation in a covered apprenticeship
program in a high-need social service-related industry,
sector, or occupation and carry out the purpose
described in subsection (a)(1)(B)(ii) shall include as
part of the application a description of wages and
benefits offered to program participants.
``(D) Small- and medium-sized businesses.--An
eligible entity applying to encourage employer
participation, by small- and medium-sized businesses,
in a covered apprenticeship program, and carry out the
purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(B)(iii) shall
include as part of the application a description of
demonstrated success in engaging small- and medium-
sized businesses (such as small businesses owned or
controlled by underrepresented individuals such as
women, minorities, or veterans) and the ability to
recruit employers to participate in related
partnerships or programs.
``(3) Intermediary awards.--
``(A) Supporting national industry and equity
intermediaries.--An eligible entity applying to carry
out a purpose described in clause (i) or (ii) of
subsection (a)(1)(C) for the development or expansion
of covered apprenticeship programs, shall include as
part of the application a description of the ability of
such entity to convene, for the purposes of developing
or expanding the programs, a diverse group of industry-
specific stakeholders, which may include employers,
workforce development organizations, industry
associations, labor groups (including joint labor-
management organizations), small businesses owned or
controlled by underrepresented individuals such as
women, minorities, or veterans, and education and
training providers with national reach.
``(B) Serving programs in a local or regional
setting.--An eligible entity applying to carry out the
purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(C)(iii) for the
development or expansion of covered apprenticeship
programs shall include as part of the application a
description of how such entity will--
``(i) engage employers, especially small-
and medium-sized businesses, in the formation
or ongoing development of industry or sector
partnerships and covered apprenticeship
programs;
``(ii) identify the industry or sector
partnerships that will be served, and
demonstrate alignment to high-skill, high-wage,
or in-demand industry sectors or occupations;
``(iii) leverage additional resources,
including funding provided through Federal and
non-Federal resources, for the activities; and
``(iv) provide services to sponsors of the
programs and program participants.
``(4) Educational alignment.--An eligible entity applying
to carry out the purpose described in subsection (a)(1)(D)
shall include as part of the application a description--
``(A) that demonstrates the entity is in a
partnership with--
``(i)(I) no less than three sponsors or
employers; or
``(II) an industry or sector partnership;
and
``(ii) at least 1 of--
``(I) an educational service
agency;
``(II) a high school;
``(III) a local educational agency;
``(IV) State educational agency;
``(V) an Indian Tribe, Tribal
organization, Tribal educational
agency, Tribally controlled college or
university, or Tribally controlled
postsecondary career and technical
institution, as applicable;
``(VI) a postsecondary educational
institution;
``(VII) a Job Corps center (as
defined in section 142 of the Workforce
Innovation and Opportunity Act (29
U.S.C. 3192)); or
``(VIII) a State higher education
agency; and
``(B) of a commitment to aligning or increasing the
alignment of the related instruction with--
``(i) the requirements for a high school
diploma or its recognized equivalent, which may
be fulfilled through a dual or concurrent
enrollment program; or
``(ii) the requirements for a recognized
postsecondary credential, including the degree
requirements for an associate's or bachelor's
degree at an accredited postsecondary
educational institution.
``(g) Waivers.--
``(1) Low-density areas.--The Secretary may waive the
requirements of subsection (e)(4) for an entity if the entity
demonstrates that it serves an area described in subsection
(b)(2)(A)(ii).
``(2) Rural apprenticeship programs.--
``(A) Ratios of participants to supervisors.--
``(i) In general.--For the period of 10
years beginning on the date of enactment of the
National Apprenticeship Act of 2023, the
requirements of section 122(e)(7) shall not
apply to an entity if the entity demonstrates
that it carries out a rural apprenticeship
program under the Rural Program.
``(ii) High-hazard industries and
occupations.--Clause (i) does not apply to an
entity carrying out such an apprenticeship
program in a high-hazard industry or
occupation, including an occupation referred to
in section 111(b)(5)(B)(ii)(II).
``(B) Geographic distribution requirements.--The
Secretary may waive the geographic distribution
requirements of subsection (c)(2) for an entity if the
entity demonstrates that it carries out a rural
apprenticeship program under the Rural Program.
``SEC. 202. USES OF FUNDS.
``(a) General Activities.--An eligible entity that receives an
award under section 201 for an apprenticeship modernization project--
``(1) shall use at least 10 percent of the award funds to
provide direct financial assistance to apprentices, pre-
apprentices, or youth apprentices through grants to support
their financial needs to enter, remain enrolled in, and
complete the covered apprenticeship program assisted through
the apprenticeship modernization project, such as support for
the related costs of supplies and equipment, assessment or
licensure fees, courses, transportation, child care, dependent
care, internet access, and housing; and
``(2) may use funds for any of the following activities:
``(A) To establish or expand partnerships with
organizations that provide to program participants in a
covered apprenticeship program referred to in paragraph
(1), access to financial planning, mentoring, and
supportive services that are necessary to enable an
individual to participate in and complete the program.
``(B) To conduct outreach and recruitment
activities for individuals who are potential program
participants, including assessments of such individuals
for, and enrollment of such individuals in, the
program.
``(C) To conduct outreach, engagement, recruitment,
and coordination of activities with employers, industry
associations, labor and joint labor-management
organizations, qualified intermediaries, education and
training providers, State or local workforce agencies,
potential sponsors, community-based organizations,
communities with high numbers or percentages of
nontraditional apprenticeship populations, small- and
medium-sized businesses, or rural communities, to
establish or expand industry or sector partnerships and
the program.
``(D) To carry out requirements for the award,
including program evaluation and reporting
requirements.
``(E) To conduct any activities as described in the
application that would advance the purposes of the
award.
``(F) To support the transition to virtual or
remote learning or training, as necessary and as
approved by the registration agency.
``(b) Additional Uses of Funds.--
``(1) Creation or expansion activities.--
``(A) Apprenticeship program creation.--An eligible
entity that receives funds under section 201 for an
activity described in section 201(a)(1)(A)(i) shall use
such funds to create a new apprenticeship program,
which may include--
``(i) creating and providing training and
related instruction based on employer
engagement;
``(ii) applying apprenticeship frameworks
as described in section 111(b)(5)(B) to the
State or local labor market and employer needs;
``(iii) aligning the new program with
existing apprenticeship programs;
``(iv) acquiring appropriate equipment,
technology, and instructional materials aligned
with needs addressed by the new program,
including machinery, testing equipment, tools,
implements, hardware and software, and other
new and emerging instructional materials; and
``(v) investing in supportive services for
program participants enrolled in an existing
apprenticeship program or an apprenticeship
program created under this title.
``(B) Apprenticeship program expansion.--An
eligible entity that receives funds under section 201
for an activity described in section 201(a)(1)(A)(ii)
shall use such funds to expand an existing
apprenticeship program, which may include--
``(i) expanding and enhancing related
instruction;
``(ii) conducting outreach to and
engagement with employers for the purposes of
the program expansion, including outreach and
engagement for creation or expansion of
industry or sector partnerships;
``(iii) preparing additional instructors or
mentors needed for the program expansion;
``(iv) building awareness of apprenticeship
program opportunities for State and local
workforce development, education, and economic
development entities;
``(v) providing commensurate wages, to
wages for on-the-job training, for program
participants during related instruction, as
applicable; and
``(vi) investing in supportive services for
program participants enrolled in an existing
apprenticeship program or an apprenticeship
program expanded under this title.
``(C) Pre-apprenticeship programs.--An eligible
entity that receives funds under section 201 for an
activity described in section 201(a)(1)(A)(iii) shall
use such funds to create a new pre-apprenticeship
program or expand an existing pre-apprenticeship
program, which may include--
``(i) coordinating pre-apprenticeship
program activities with the sponsor of an
apprenticeship program in a high-skill, high-
wage, or in-demand industry sector or
occupation, including the creation or expansion
of work-based learning opportunities, and
establishing articulation agreements for those
who successfully complete a pre-apprenticeship
to earn academic credit and enroll in an
apprenticeship program;
``(ii) creating, expanding, or integrating
related instruction and work-based learning,
which may include training in the workplace,
and supporting partnerships to create
opportunities for pre-apprentices to earn
academic credit at a postsecondary educational
institution for skills and competencies
acquired during the pre-apprenticeship program;
``(iii) providing program participants with
career exploration and career planning
activities and with exploration of
postsecondary opportunities, including
apprenticeship programs;
``(iv) with respect to program participants
without a high school diploma or its recognized
equivalent, paying the costs affiliated with
acquiring such equivalent, and the costs of any
related assessments of potential pre-
apprentices or active pre-apprentices,
including assessments that would verify the
attainment of foundational knowledge and skills
necessary to succeed in an apprenticeship
program;
``(v) development or expansion of
partnerships with organizations that assist
program participants in accessing supportive
services, which may include access during the
12-month period after the conclusion of the
pre-apprenticeship program involved;
``(vi) providing wages, commensurate to the
wages for the linked apprenticeship program,
for pre-apprentices as they participate in the
pre-apprenticeship program, as appropriate;
``(vii) paying the cost of related
instruction or assessment or licensure fees
associated with the pre-apprenticeship program,
as appropriate;
``(viii) providing stipends to pre-
apprentices enrolled in a pre-apprenticeship
program to cover costs or out-of-pocket
expenses resulting from the program such as
assessments and fees for industry-recognized
credentials or driver's licenses during the
time of that enrollment; or
``(ix) creating or expanding industry or
sector partnerships to support the pre-
apprenticeship program and to provide
additional opportunities to the pre-
apprentices.
``(D) Youth apprenticeship programs.--An eligible
entity that receives funds under section 201 for an
activity described in section 201(a)(1)(A)(iv) shall
use such funds to create a new youth apprenticeship
program or expand an existing youth apprenticeship
program, which may include--
``(i) paying for the costs associated with
curriculum development and alignment of that
curriculum with recognized postsecondary
credentials (which may be industry-recognized
credentials), high school graduation
requirements, and related instruction,
including curriculum development for dual or
concurrent enrollment;
``(ii) providing to employers, and to the
extent practicable, labor organizations and
joint labor-management organizations, technical
assistance to support the participation of
youth apprentices under the age of 18;
``(iii) integrating work-based and academic
learning, which may include training in the
workplace;
``(iv) providing program participants with
career exploration and career planning
activities and with exploration of
postsecondary opportunities such as
apprenticeship programs;
``(v) providing technical assistance to
support the participation of small- and medium-
sized businesses in the youth apprenticeship
program;
``(vi) developing or expanding partnerships
with organizations that assist program
participants in accessing supportive services,
which may include access during the 12-month
period after the conclusion of the youth
apprenticeship program;
``(vii) providing teachers, career guidance
and academic counselors, school leaders, school
administrators, specialized instructional
support personnel, and paraprofessionals with
professional development opportunities to build
an understanding of apprenticeship
opportunities available to students, including
experiential opportunities like externships; or
``(viii) providing stipends to youth
apprentices enrolled in a youth apprenticeship
program to cover costs of out-of-pocket
expenses resulting from the program for fees
for driver's licenses during the time of that
enrollment.
``(E) Rural apprenticeship programs.--To facilitate
participation in a rural apprenticeship program, an
eligible entity that receives funds under section 201
for an activity described in section 201(a)(1)(A)(v)--
``(i) shall use the funds to provide
assistance to program participants enrolled in
an rural apprenticeship program to cover costs
including--
``(I) costs of housing;
``(II) costs of transportation to
and from the work site or another rural
apprenticeship program site;
``(III) costs of child care and
elder care, fees associated with the
attainment of a driver's license, and
out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a
result of participation in the rural
apprenticeship program;
``(IV) technology and internet
connectivity costs and costs of
programs to facilitate remote and
distance learning; and
``(V) costs approved by the State
apprenticeship agency or State office
of apprenticeship to meet the goals of
the Rural Program;
``(ii) shall use the funds to provide
assistance to education and training providers
in an apprenticeship program to cover costs
described in clause (i);
``(iii) if the entity carries out an
existing apprenticeship program in a rural
area, may use the funds to expand (including
addressing barriers to participation in) the
existing program; and
``(iv) if the entity receives an award
under the Rural Program to create a new rural
apprenticeship program in a rural area--
``(I) may use the funds to pay for
collaborative activities with an entity
carrying out an existing program in
that rural area; and
``(II) shall use the funds to
coordinate activities with each such
existing entity so that the new rural
apprenticeship program does not
duplicate the activities of the entity
or create redundant activities.
``(2) Incentive funds.--
``(A) Barriers to employment.--An eligible entity
that receives funds under section 201, for an activity
described in section 201(a)(1)(B)(i) that targets
individuals with barriers to employment, shall use such
funds to encourage employer participation in a covered
apprenticeship program, which may include--
``(i) providing financial assistance to
employers to assist in paying for costs related
to the covered apprenticeship program involved,
such as the costs of training incumbent workers
for participation as mentors or employees
supervising on-the-job learning;
``(ii) assisting in paying for the cost of
related instruction, assessment or licensure
fees, or wages during related instruction for
program participants; and
``(iii) establishing or expanding
partnerships with organizations that assist
program participants in accessing supportive
services to support recruitment, retention, and
completion, including providing access to
supplies and equipment necessary to begin the
program.
``(B) Individuals impacted by the justice system.--
An eligible entity that receives funds under section
201 for an activity described in section
201(a)(1)(B)(i) that targets formerly incarcerated
individuals shall use such funds to encourage employer
participation in a covered apprenticeship program,
which may include--
``(i) providing financial assistance to
employers to assist in paying for costs related
to the program, such as the costs of training
incumbent workers for participation as mentors
or employees supervising on-the-job learning;
or
``(ii) assisting in paying for the cost of
related instruction, assessment or licensure
fees, or wages during related instruction for
program participants.
``(C) High-need social service-related
industries.--An eligible entity that receives funds
under section 201 for an activity described in section
201(a)(1)(B)(ii) shall use such funds to encourage
employer participation in a covered apprenticeship
program in high-need social service-related industries,
sectors, or occupations, which may include--
``(i) providing financial assistance to
employers to assist in paying for costs related
to the program, such as training incumbent
workers as mentors or employees providing on-
the-job training;
``(ii) assisting in paying for the cost of
related instruction, assessment or licensure
fees, or wages during related instruction for
program participants;
``(iii) establishing or expanding
partnerships with organizations that assist
program participants in accessing supportive
services to support recruitment, retention, and
completion, including providing access to
supplies and equipment necessary to begin the
program; or
``(iv) aligning such program with career
pathways and opportunities for advancement
along such career pathways.
``(D) In-demand industry sector or occupation
awards for small- and medium-sized businesses.--An
eligible entity that receives funds under section 201
for an activity described in section 201(a)(1)(B)(iii)
shall use such funds to encourage participation of
small- and medium-sized businesses in a covered
apprenticeship program, which may include--
``(i) providing financial assistance to
employers to assist in paying for costs related
to the program, such as the costs of training
incumbent workers for participation as mentors
or employees supervising on-the-job learning;
``(ii) assisting in paying for the cost of
related instruction, assessment or licensure
fees, or wages during related instruction for
program participants;
``(iii) providing technical assistance to
small- and medium-sized businesses on the
program registration process and on leveraging
other available funds to support carrying out
the program; or
``(iv) establishing or expanding
partnerships to support covered apprenticeship
program development or expansion, including
establishing or expanding industry or sector
partnerships to ensure inclusion of small- and
medium-sized businesses.
``(3) Intermediary awards.--
``(A) National industry and equity
intermediaries.--A qualified intermediary described in
clause (i) or (ii) of section 201(a)(1)(C) that
receives funds under section 201 for an activity
described in section 201(a)(1)(C) shall use such funds
to carry out activities at a national level for the
development or expansion of a covered apprenticeship
program, which may include--
``(i) creating partnerships and developing
collaborative activities with employers,
workforce development organizations, industry
associations, labor organizations, and
education and training providers to help
multiple employers make education and training
more affordable and accelerate the expansion of
a covered apprenticeship program;
``(ii) assisting employers in expanding a
covered apprenticeship program, developing such
a program, and working together to create a
pipeline of skilled workers;
``(iii) increasing the participation and
completion of nontraditional apprenticeship
populations in a covered apprenticeship
program, which may include--
``(I) supporting the development,
implementation, and scaling of plans
and practices; and
``(II) identifying, developing, and
disseminating effective program tools
and strategies;
``(iv) providing national activities to
increase awareness of and access to the
program, including providing strategic
marketing and outreach, technology
improvements, and innovations, that make it
easier for employers to start such a program
and for individuals to connect with program
opportunities;
``(v) developing and disseminating training
or related instruction that is associated with
the program or is for curriculum improvements
that align with the requirements of the program
and related learning assessments; or
``(vi) providing industry employees or
potential employees with a clear understanding
of future career paths and the skills needed to
succeed, along with cost-effective ways of
acquiring those skills through the program.
``(B) Local intermediaries.--A qualified
intermediary described in section 201(a)(1)(C)(iii)
that receives funds under section 201 for an activity
described in section 201(a)(1)(C) shall use such funds
to carry out activities at a local or regional level
for the development or expansion of a covered
apprenticeship program through the establishment or
expansion of a sector-based partnership, which may
include--
``(i) providing training or related
instruction that is associated with the covered
apprenticeship program or is for curriculum
improvements that align with the requirements
of the program and related learning
assessments;
``(ii) engaging with local education and
training providers to support, for the program,
related instruction aligned with the needs of
high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry
sectors and occupations, and to the extent
practicable, support the provision of academic
credit for related instruction for the program;
``(iii) providing services, including
business engagement, classroom instruction, and
development of partnerships with organizations
that assist program participants in accessing
supportive services (which may include access
during the 12-month period after the conclusion
of the other activities of the program);
``(iv) providing technical assistance on
the registration process for a sponsor of the
program;
``(v) connecting businesses, labor
organizations, or joint labor-management
organizations with education and training
providers to develop related instruction to
complement the on-the-job learning portion of
the program;
``(vi) training incumbent workers for
participation as mentors or employees
supervising on-the-job learning in the program;
and
``(vii) providing career exposure, career
planning, and career awareness activities for
program participants.
``(4) Educational alignment awards.--An eligible entity
that receives funds under section 201 for an activity described
in section 201(a)(1)(D) shall use such funds to strengthen
alignment between sponsors of a covered apprenticeship program
and education and training providers in secondary,
postsecondary, or adult education systems, including alignment
relating to diploma (or its recognized equivalent), degree, and
credential requirements, which may include--
``(A) creating curricula or aligning the related
instruction for the covered apprenticeship program to
requirements for a high school diploma (or its
recognized equivalent) or an associate's or bachelor's
degree, including through providing for--
``(i) dual enrollment in a youth
apprenticeship program and a program for such a
diploma or degree, with academic credit toward
the diploma or degree from participation in the
youth apprenticeship program;
``(ii) articulation agreements; or
``(iii) credit transfer agreements;
``(B) creating or expanding career pathways aligned
with the covered apprenticeship program;
``(C) providing teachers, career guidance and
academic counselors, school leaders, school
administrators, specialized instructional support
personnel, and paraprofessionals with professional
development opportunities to build an understanding of
opportunities in the covered apprenticeship program
available to students and enable individuals receiving
the professional development to incorporate such
opportunities into academic content and offerings;
``(D) offering assessments of prior learning, and
encouraging arrangements that include credit for prior
learning to grant advanced standing in the covered
apprenticeship program and academic credit towards an
associate's or bachelor's degree; and
``(E) training incumbent workers for participation
as mentors or employees supervising on-the-job learning
in the program.
``(5) Coordination of activities.--An eligible entity that
receives funds under section 201 to create a new apprenticeship
program, pre-apprenticeship program, or youth apprenticeship
program shall use such funds to coordinate activities with
existing sponsors of apprenticeship programs, pre-
apprenticeship programs, or youth apprenticeship programs,
respectively in the State so that the new program does not
duplicate the activities of the sponsor or create redundant
activities.
``SEC. 203. EVALUATIONS OF ACTIVITIES.
``(a) Recipient Reports.--Each recipient of an award under this
title shall--
``(1) provide for an independent evaluation of the
apprenticeship modernization project carried out under this
title during the award period, with funds made available
through the award;
``(2) provide for an annual report and for a final report
at the conclusion of the award period, which include--
``(A) a description of how the funds received
through the award were used and how the uses of funds
aligned with the description in the application
specified in section 201(e)(5)(C);
``(B) in the case of an eligible entity that is
required to report data under section 131(b)(1), the
data collected under such section for the programs
involved on an annual basis;
``(C) the total number of active program
participants served through covered apprenticeship
programs assisted under the apprenticeship
modernization project;
``(D) the total number of program participants in
those programs that obtained unsubsidized employment in
a field related to the occupation in which the program
participants worked during the covered apprenticeship
program;
``(E) the total number of program participants that
completed those programs in which the program
participants were enrolled;
``(F) the average time for a program participant to
complete each of those programs, as compared to the
hours required by program standards description under
paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 123(b);
``(G) for each of those programs, the average cost
per program participant during the most recent program
year and the 3 preceding program years;
``(H) for each of those programs, the percentage of
program participants who received support services; and
``(I) the performance data described in
subparagraphs (A) through (H), disaggregated--
``(i) by the program type (apprenticeship,
pre-apprenticeship, or youth apprenticeship
program) involved; and
``(ii) by race, ethnicity, sex, age, and
whether the program participant is an
individual with a barrier to employment; and
``(3) submit each report under paragraph (2)--
``(A) to the registration agency involved; and
``(B) to the Administrator.
``(b) Administrator Evaluations.--
``(1) In general.--The Administrator shall prepare--
``(A) not later than 36 months after the date of
enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023,
an interim evaluation on the activities carried out
under awards made under this title; and
``(B) not later than 60 months after the date of
enactment of the National Apprenticeship Act of 2023, a
final evaluation containing the results of those
activities.
``(2) Contents.--Such evaluations shall address, for the
apprenticeship modernization project carried out under each
award under this title, the general effectiveness of the
activities of the project in relation to their cost, including
the extent to which the activities--
``(A) improve the participation in, retention in,
and completion of covered apprenticeship programs
assisted through the project, by nontraditional
apprenticeship populations;
``(B) to the extent feasible, increase the levels
of total employment, of attainment of recognized
postsecondary credentials, and of measurable skills, by
program participants in the covered apprenticeship
program assisted by the project above the levels that
would have existed in the absence of such activities;
``(C) respond to the needs reflected in State,
regional, or local labor market data;
``(D) prepare such program participants for high-
skill, high-wage, or in-demand industries or
occupations; and
``(E) reach a wide variety of industry sectors and
occupations.
``(3) Reports to congress.--Not later than 60 days after
the completion of the interim evaluation and the final
evaluation described in this subsection, the Administrator
shall submit to the Committee on Education and the Workforce of
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate an interim report
summarizing the findings of the interim evaluation, and a final
report summarizing the findings of the final evaluation,
respectively.
``(4) Public access.--The Administrator shall make the
interim and final reports available on a publicly accessible
website not later than 60 days after the completion of the
interim report and not later than 60 days after the completion
of the final report, respectively.
``SEC. 204. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
``(a) In General.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry
out this title--
``(1) $350,000,000 for fiscal year 2025;
``(2) $450,000,000 for fiscal year 2026;
``(3) $550,000,000 for fiscal year 2027;
``(4) $650,000,000 for fiscal year 2028; and
``(5) $750,000,000 for fiscal year 2029.
``(b) Reservation for Rural Apprenticeship Demonstration Program.--
For each fiscal year specified in subsection (a), the Secretary shall
reserve $40,000,000 from the amount appropriated under subsection (a),
to carry out section 201(a)(1)(A)(v).
``SEC. 205. DEFINITIONS.
``In this title:
``(1) Apprenticeship modernization project.--The term
`apprenticeship modernization project' means a set of
activities described in a clause, or subparagraph (D), of
section 201(a)(1) for which an eligible entity receives an
award under section 201.
``(2) Award.--The term `award' means a grant, contract, or
cooperative agreement.
``(3) Covered apprenticeship program.--The term `covered
apprenticeship program' means an apprenticeship program, pre-
apprenticeship program, or youth apprenticeship program in the
national apprenticeship system.
``(4) Existing, new.--The terms `existing' and `new', used
with respect to a program, initiative, or partnership, means a
program, initiative, or partnership (respectively) that existed
or was new (respectively) as of the date of the corresponding
application under section 201.
``(5) Indigenous person.--The term `Indigenous person'
means--
``(A) an Indian, as defined in section 4 of the
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act
(25 U.S.C. 5304); and
``(B) a Native Hawaiian, as defined in section 6207
of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 7517).
``(6) Supportive services.--The term `supportive services'
means services such as transportation, child care, dependent
care, housing, and needs-related payments, that are necessary
to enable an individual to participate in activities authorized
under this title.''.
SEC. 4. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.
(a) American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act of
1998.--Section 414(c) of the American Competitiveness and Workforce
Improvement Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 3224a) is repealed.
(b) Immigration and Nationality Act.--Section 286(s)(2) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1356(s)(2)) is amended--
(1) in the heading, by striking ``for job training'' and
inserting ``for programs under the national apprenticeship
system''; and
(2) by striking ``for demonstration programs and projects
described in section 414(c) of the American Competitiveness and
Workforce Improvement Act of 1998'' and inserting ``to carry
out title II of the National Apprenticeship Act''.
(c) Transition Provision.--Notwithstanding the repeal and
amendments made by subsections (a) and (b), each eligible entity that
received a grant under section 414(c) of the American Competitiveness
and Workforce Improvement Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 3224a), as such
section was in effect before October 1, 2024--
(1) shall continue to receive funds in accordance with the
terms of such grant; and
(2) may not receive any additional funds under such section
after the expiration of such grant.
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