This bill amends Alaska's existing laws regarding the use of apprentice labor in public construction projects, specifically targeting contracts valued at $2,500,000 or more. It mandates that a certain percentage of labor hours on these projects be performed by apprentices in various skilled trades, including boilermakers, electricians, plumbers, and welders, among others. Additionally, the bill stipulates that at least 20 percent of the apprentices hired must be veterans. The Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, along with the Department of Administration, is required to provide detailed information about each project to the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, including the percentage of labor hours performed by apprentices and the number of veteran apprentices.

Furthermore, the bill establishes an annual reporting requirement for the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development, who must compile and submit a report to the legislature detailing the use of apprentice labor and veteran apprentices for the previous year. This report will include data on the percentage of apprentice labor hours utilized and the number of veteran apprentices hired. The bill also includes definitions for key terms such as "apprentice," "construction," "labor hours," and "veteran," ensuring clarity in its implementation. Notably, the requirements do not apply if they would jeopardize federal funding for a construction project.

Statutes affected:
SB0173A, AM SB 173, introduced 04/14/2025: