SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5584
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 2, 2011
Title: An act relating to conforming with federal labor standards for apprenticeship programs.
Brief Description: Concerning the conforming of apprenticeship program standards to federal labor standards.
Sponsors: Senators Harper, Kohl-Welles and Kline; by request of Department of Labor & Industries.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection: 2/01/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & CONSUMER PROTECTION |
Staff: Mac Nicholson (786-7445)
Background: The Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council (WSATC) is a seven member board that establishes apprenticeship program standards as rules and approves apprenticeship training programs. The Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) works with the WSATC to oversee and administer the apprenticeship program.
The Secretary of the United States Department of Labor delegates to the state authority to certify apprenticeship programs for federal purposes. Apprentices that complete certified programs are recognized as qualified journey workers nationwide. The Secretary delegates authority only if state apprenticeship law conforms with federal apprenticeship regulations. Changes in federal regulations in December of 2008 require that a state apprenticeship agency, and not a state apprenticeship council, have responsibility and accountability for apprenticeship within the state. States must be in compliance with these changes by December 29, 2010.
Summary of Bill: L&I is the agency with responsibility and accountability for apprenticeship within the state for federal purposes. L&I has rulemaking authority for apprenticeships but must consult with the WSATC prior to adopting rules. Any decision of the WSATC affecting registration and oversight of apprenticeship programs and agreements may be appealed to L&I within 30 days.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available (on Companion HB 1059).
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill will bring Washington's apprenticeship program into compliance with new federal rules. If the state does not act, then there is a risk of the apprenticeship program being decertified, or the federal Department of Labor may tell the state how to adapt the program.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Tamara Jones, L&I; Dave Johnson, Washington State Building Trades Council.