Event Details

Apprenticeship Rules

Public Hearing on Proposed Rules
Thursday, April 6, 2023
1 p.m.

Location

To join on your computer or mobile app:
https://lni-wa-gov.zoom.us/j/81802286237?pwd=QlBqNVpmdXNLNnJDNzhhaGZqK1hJZz09
Passcode: Hearing6!

To join by phone (audio only):
1-360-209-5623
Meeting ID: 818 0228 6237
Passcode: 610462506

Find your local number here: https://lni-wa-gov.zoom.us/u/kjdMAYS3E

The hearing will start at 1:00 p.m. and continue until all oral comments are received.

L&I encourages the submittal of written comments, due by 5:00 p.m. on April 6, 2023.

Public hearings held virtually have proven effective in allowing greater public access, eliminating the burden of physical travel, and maintaining public safety. Accordingly, this public hearing will not be held in person.

Purpose

This rulemaking updates the rules regarding timelines, procedures and content for new apprenticeship program applications as detailed in chapter 296-05 WAC. The Washington State Legislature passed Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5600 (E2SSB 5600) during the 2022 legislative session, which adds a sustainability assessment requirement to all new apprenticeship program applications. The Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council (WSATC) now must also consider living wage, presence of a career ladder, and other non-wage benefits for graduating apprentices when considering a new program for approval. To ensure transparency in the approval process, these items needed to be included and defined in the rule. E2SSB 5600 also requires the WSATC to establish economic or industry sector-based platforms, which is a new aspect in the apprenticeship system. The bill highlights the industry sectors for which the platforms may be established, that each must consist of an equal number of employer and employee representatives, and outlines the tasks that the platforms must complete. Rulemaking is required to define how platform members will be selected, the detailed make-up of the platforms (including minimum/maximum number of members, qualifications of platform members, electing a chair and secretary), and further clarify the role of the platforms.