Old North News

WASHINGTON – Today, Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) and several committee members have raised concerns over a proposed rule that expands federal power over apprenticeships. The lawmakers, including Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee Chairman Burgess Owens (R-UT) and several Representatives, expressed their objections in a letter to Department of Labor (DOL) Acting Secretary Julie Su.

In the letter, the lawmakers criticized the proposed apprenticeship rule, stating that it "eliminates the competency-based approach" at a time when competencies are crucial in the labor market. They also highlighted discrepancies in the regulatory analysis and raised issues regarding diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the registered apprenticeship system.

The lawmakers expressed their apprehension that the proposed rule could lead to a race-conscious approach to apprenticeship expansion, contrary to the equal opportunity principles it aims to promote. They warned that if the rule is finalized, states, local leaders, and employers may choose to establish their own apprenticeship systems independent of federal oversight.

The lawmakers also referenced an executive order issued by President Biden on March 6, which they believe could coerce job creators into subjecting their apprenticeship programs to federal control under the risk of losing federal funding opportunities.

The committee members emphasized the importance of maintaining apprenticeship programs that are responsive to the evolving demands of the economy and expressed their concerns about the potential implications of the proposed rule on the current apprenticeship landscape.