The Alaska State Legislature has passed a resolution encouraging the United States Congress to establish hiring goals for apprentices and veteran apprentices in Department of Defense construction projects. The resolution highlights the unique qualifications of veterans, who have received specialized training through military service and are often well-prepared for civilian employment. It notes the challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian life, including rising unemployment rates, and emphasizes the importance of providing them with opportunities in the workforce, particularly in military construction jobs.

Specifically, the resolution calls for legislation that mandates contractors on Department of Defense projects to ensure that at least 10 percent of their workforce consists of participants in qualified apprenticeship or postsecondary programs, with a further stipulation that at least 10 percent of these apprentices or students be veterans. The resolution aims to leverage the skills and training of veterans to enhance the workforce while addressing their employment challenges, ultimately supporting their successful reintegration into civilian life.