Levin, Bonamici Introduce Legislation to Improve Quality of Apprenticeships

Press Release

Congressman Andy Levin (MI-09) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1), both members of the House Education & Labor Committee, introduced legislation to codify and streamline standards for registered apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs. The Strengthening Training and Accessibility for New and Diverse Apprenticeships through Relevant and Dependable Standards Act, or the STANDARDS Act, safeguards and expands the rights of workers who partake in apprenticeships, one of the United States' longest and most successful workforce development programs.

"For years apprenticeships have given students and workers the opportunity to make good money while gaining valuable skills and experience--it's time to expand on this success," said Rep. Levin. "The numbers are in on apprenticeships, and they're incredible: according to the Department of Labor, 94 percent of people who complete registered apprenticeships are employed upon completion, earning an average starting wage of more than $70,000 annually. At the same time, employers benefit tremendously from taking on apprentices, as every dollar spent on an apprentice yields $1.47 for a firm. The 117th Congress must be a Congress for working people and expanding opportunities for millions of Americans is a great place to start. The STANDARDS Act will ensure apprenticeships continue to offer strong value to workers."

"Workers across Northwest Oregon and the entire country are able to access meaningful employment through Registered Apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, and youth apprenticeships," said Rep. Bonamici. "Registered Apprenticeships are also an important tool to help women, people of color, and other individuals who have historically faced barriers to employment find a pathway to success and the supportive services they need. I'm pleased to partner with Congressman Levin on this important bill to strengthen apprenticeship quality standards and worker protections."

The STANDARDS Act is also included in the National Apprenticeship Act reauthorization, which invests more than $3.5 billion over five years in expanding opportunities and access to registered apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships.

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