The comment period to provide feedback on the proposed Industry Recognized Apprenticeship Programs (IRAPs) will expire Monday, August 26, 2019 at Midnight. Please consider sharing your thoughts to protect the exclusion of established apprenticeship training programs.
In June, 2019, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued a proposed rule introducing IRAPs. The IRAP proposal is the final product of the Presidential Executive Order 13801, issued in 2017.
IRAPs would be an alternative to the existing registered apprenticeship programs allowing multiple entities to establish training standards and curriculum. While currently, the proposed rule exempts the Construction Industry from creating IRAPs, there is concern the exclusion could be removed or limited following the comment period. The introduction of IRAPs into the construction industry and/or changes to the existing apprenticeship model could compromise a proven working system.
It is not too late to share your comments on this issue. Ask your staff and business associates to respond, as well.
Comments Link: https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=ETA-2019-0005