SB 6480-S2.E - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Revises public works apprenticeship utilization requirements.

Establishes an intent to assist returning veterans through programs such as the "helmets to hardhats" program, which is administered by the center for military recruitment, assessment, and veterans employment. It is the state's intent to assist returning veterans with apprenticeship placement career opportunities, in order to expedite the transition from military service to the construction work force.

Directs the secretary of transportation to establish an apprenticeship utilization advisory committee, which shall include statewide geographic representation and consist of equal numbers of representatives of contractors and labor. The committee must include at least one member representing contractor businesses with less than thirty-five employees. The advisory committee shall meet regularly with the secretary of transportation to discuss implementation of this act by the department of transportation, including development of the process to be used to adjust the requirements of this act for a specific project. The committee shall provide a report to the legislature by January 1, 2008, on the effects of the apprentice labor requirement on transportation projects and on the availability of apprentice labor and programs statewide.

Directs the Washington state apprenticeship and training council to lead and coordinate an outreach effort to educate returning veterans about apprenticeship and career opportunities in the construction industry.