This bill proposes the establishment of a new Division of Apprenticeship within the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights. The division will be responsible for coordinating with the federal Office of Apprenticeship to manage and expand apprenticeship programs within the state. Key duties include developing a statewide strategy to support existing programs, creating a pilot program for businesses interested in establishing apprenticeship programs, and potentially contracting with other state agencies to promote participation in the federal apprenticeship system. The division will report to the labor commissioner, who may appoint a division director to oversee its operations.

Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $650,000 from the state general fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, to cover salaries and benefits for the division's staff, with authorization for three full-time equivalent positions. The Department of Labor and Human Rights is also required to report to the legislative assembly on the number of apprentices and employers assisted, as well as the number of new apprenticeship programs created during the specified biennium.