Michigan House Bill HB5703

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/1/24
• Refer: 5/1/24

Caption

Military affairs: other; Michigan National Guard apprenticeship program; create. Creates new act.

Impact

The enactment of HB 5703 is anticipated to significantly enhance the employability of National Guard members, facilitating their transition into civilian careers by linking their military skills to recognized civilian qualifications. The collaboration between the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, and various agencies aims to create a streamlined process for members to apply and achieve certification in registered apprenticeships compatible with their military occupational specialties. This initiative not only aids individual members but also serves to bolster the workforce in Michigan through skilled labor and vocational training.

Summary

House Bill 5703 aims to establish a Michigan Army National Guard and Air National Guard apprenticeship program. This new initiative seeks to assist members of the National Guard in applying their military training and experience toward obtaining registered apprenticeship certifications recognized by the United States Department of Labor. The program is designed to be a no-cost benefit for the members, ensuring that upon successful completion, they will receive a certificate of completion for their apprenticeships. The focus is particularly on aligning training with jobs that appear on Michigan's 'Top Hot 50' job list, promoting job readiness and vocational development for veterans.

Contention

While the bill presents several benefits, discussions may arise regarding the coordination among different state agencies and the logistics of implementation. Questions may also surface about how effectively the program can match military training with registered apprenticeship requirements and whether the program adequately addresses the diverse needs of all National Guard members. Furthermore, concerns around funding and the long-term sustainability of the program might be debated as it rolls out, especially in terms of how it is perceived against existing vocational training programs in the state.