The proposed State Apprenticeship Agency Act aims to create a new framework for apprenticeship programs in Arkansas by repealing the previous subchapter on apprenticeship training and removing references to the Arkansas Apprenticeship Coordination Steering Committee. The bill introduces a new subchapter that defines key terms and outlines the responsibilities of apprentices, apprenticeship agreements, and the cancellation process for these agreements. It emphasizes the collaborative role of the Office of Skills Development and local sites in identifying industries for work-based training, ensuring that apprenticeship programs align with federal regulations.

The legislation establishes the State Apprenticeship Agency within the Office of Skills Development, which will serve as the state registration agency for apprenticeship programs and handle disputes related to apprenticeship agreements. It also creates the Arkansas Apprenticeship Council to advise the agency, comprising members from both employer and employee organizations. This new structure is designed to enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of apprenticeship training in Arkansas, ultimately contributing to workforce development and skill enhancement for residents.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB390 V2 - 3-11-2025 10:40 AM: 6-50-503(c), 6-55-104(b), 6-55-105, 6-52-205, 6-52-305, 03-11-2025, 6-55-107(d), 6-55-108, 19-5-1114(b), 25-16-903(55), 25-16-903
Old version SB390 V3 - 3-18-2025 10:40 AM: 6-50-503(c), 6-55-104(b), 6-55-105, 6-52-205, 6-52-305, 03-18-2025, 6-55-107(d), 6-55-108, 19-5-1114(b), 25-16-903(55)
Old version SB390 Original - 3-5-2025 11:47 AM: 6-50-503(c), 6-55-104(b), 6-55-105, 6-52-205, 6-52-305, 6-55-107(d), 6-55-108, 19-5-1114(b), 25-16-903(55), 25-16-903
SB 390: 6-50-503(c), 6-55-104(b), 6-55-105, 6-52-205, 6-52-305, 6-55-107(d), 6-55-108, 19-5-1114(b), 25-16-903(55), 25-16-903
Act 695: 6-50-503(c), 6-55-104(b), 6-55-105, 6-52-205, 6-52-305, 03-18-2025, 6-55-107(d), 6-55-108, 19-5-1114(b), 25-16-903(55)