New Jersey Assembly Bill A5279

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/28/23

Caption

Removes registered apprenticeship program requisites of public work contractors; sets apprenticeship standards for prevailing wage projects.

Impact

The enactment of A5279 would amend the New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act and revise aspects of the Public Works Contractor Registration Act. It would eliminate mandatory participation in apprenticeship programs, instead allowing contractors to set their own apprenticeship standards if they choose to participate. This could lead to a decrease in the quality of training for workers on public projects, as the state would no longer dictate adherence to standardized training requirements.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5279 proposes significant changes to the regulations governing public works contractors in New Jersey, specifically targeting the requirements related to apprenticeship programs. The key provision of the bill is the removal of the prerequisite that contractors must participate in a registered apprenticeship program to be eligible for public works projects. This shift aims to widen the pool of contractors eligible for state contracts, thereby potentially increasing competition and reducing project costs.

Contention

This bill may be contentious among labor groups, which argue that removing the apprenticeship requirement jeopardizes worker training and the economic stability of trades reliant on skilled labor. Supporters claim that the reduction of regulatory burdens could stimulate economic growth and efficiency in public contracting. However, there is concern among advocates for labor rights that the quality of labor and safety standards in public works might be compromised as a result of less regulated apprenticeship paths.