American Apprenticeship Act

The "American Apprenticeship Act" proposes to establish a federal grant program, administered by the Secretary of Labor, to provide financial assistance to states. These competitive grants would help states defray the costs associated with pre-apprenticeship programs and related instruction for qualified apprenticeships. A qualified apprenticeship is defined as one registered under the National Apprenticeship Act and concentrated in an industry sector or occupation representing less than 10 percent of apprenticeable occupations, while a pre-apprenticeship prepares individuals for entry into such programs through structured training, hands-on experience, and a formal agreement for direct entry. States applying for these grants must submit a strategic plan detailing how they will collaborate with industry, educational institutions, and labor-management entities to expand apprenticeships, especially in nontraditional industries like IT and healthcare. The bill emphasizes increasing opportunities for minority groups, youth, individuals with disabilities, and veterans . Grant funds can cover tuition, fees, textbooks, equipment, and other necessary educational materials, with states allowed to use up to 10 percent for administrative costs. The Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, will establish performance measures and an evaluation system for the program, and is also tasked with identifying in-demand occupations nationally and regionally that lack apprenticeship utilization.