New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3175

Introduced
5/9/24  

Caption

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

Impact

The implications of S3175 on New Jersey's employment landscape could be significant. By eliminating the stringent requirement for participating in registered apprenticeship programs, the bill may potentially increase the pool of contractors able to bid for and undertake public work projects. Supporters argue that this could foster more competition and streamline the registration process, enabling faster project initiation. Conversely, this may lead to concerns about the quality of training and skills development provided to workers on public works sites, which is traditionally assured by the registered apprenticeship model.

Summary

Senate Bill S3175, introduced in May 2024, aims to revise the existing standards for registered apprenticeship programs as they pertain to public works contractors in New Jersey. The bill removes the requirement for contractors and subcontractors to participate in a registered apprenticeship program to be eligible for public works projects. Instead, it sets forth a new framework that allows for apprenticeship standards but does not mandate participation in a fully registered program. This change signifies a shift in how contractors can form and implement training programs for their workers.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, S3175 has sparked notable contention among labor advocacy groups and some legislators who argue that reducing standards may compromise the quality of training workers receive. Opponents are concerned that allowing unregistered apprenticeship programs could undermine worker protections and the effectiveness of training, leading to a less skilled workforce. The debate reflects broader tensions in labor policy, particularly around ensuring fair wages and proper training for laborers engaged in public works.

Companion Bills

NJ S3635

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

Previously Filed As

NJ S3635

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

NJ A5279

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

NJ A4808

Revises registered apprenticeship requisites of public works contractors and creates opt-out from participation in registered apprenticeship program for public works projects.

NJ AB581

Apprenticeships on public works projects.

NJ S1441

Allows more rigorous training hour requirements for registered apprenticeship programs.

NJ SB1138

Public Works Contracts - Apprenticeship Requirements (Maryland Workforce Apprenticeship Utilization Act)

NJ AB3231

Employment: public works: apprenticeship.

NJ HB1276

Public Works Contracts – Apprenticeship Requirements (Maryland Workforce Apprenticeship Utilization Act)

NJ SB960

Providing for prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements.

NJ SB817

Providing for prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements.

Similar Bills

NJ A5279

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

NJ S3635

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

NJ A4808

Revises registered apprenticeship requisites of public works contractors and creates opt-out from participation in registered apprenticeship program for public works projects.

AZ HB2618

Power plants; contractors; workforce requirements

OH HB205

Enact the High Hazard Training Certification (HHTC) Act

MN HF10

Skilled and trained contractor workforce use provided at petroleum refineries.

MN SF10

Skilled and trained contractor workforce use at petroleum refineries authorization

IL HB2839

IL WORKS APPRENTICESHIP CREDIT