Lynchburg Reporter

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bob Good (VA-05) introduced the Apprenticeship Freedom Act, aiming to reduce federal interference in apprenticeship programs and give more control to employers. Good emphasized the importance of apprenticeships in shaping the American workforce, particularly in Virginia, stating, "Apprenticeships are crucial for shaping the American workforce, especially in the Commonwealth of Virginia."

According to Good, the current system under President Biden's Department of Labor imposes strict regulations on apprenticeship programs run by business owners. The proposed legislation seeks to empower small business owners and limit the control of government authorities. Good asserted, "My bill restores power to small business owners and curbs the power of Washington bureaucrats. American employers know what is best for their businesses, including how to develop the skills their workforce needs to be successful."

The Apprenticeship Freedom Act comes at a time when there are 27,000 registered apprenticeship programs in the U.S., with Virginia leading with 2,845 active programs. The bill aims to create more opportunities for employers to engage in workforce development by providing them with the flexibility to design and implement apprenticeship programs tailored to their needs.

Joining Congressman Good as a cosponsor of the bill is Rep. Mary Miller (IL-15), and the legislation has garnered support from groups like the Foundation for Government Accountability. The proposed Act is poised to facilitate a more employer-driven approach to apprenticeships, enabling businesses to nurture the skilled workforce they require for success.