The Nebraska Registered Apprenticeship Act establishes a comprehensive framework for apprenticeship programs in the state, creating the Nebraska Office of Registered Apprenticeship to oversee registration and standards. The act defines essential terms related to apprenticeships and outlines the office's responsibilities, including developing quality standards for pre-apprenticeships and registered apprenticeships. Additionally, it establishes the Nebraska Apprenticeship Council to advise the office and promote community outreach about the benefits of apprenticeships. The bill also modifies existing labor laws, including changes to child labor provisions, adjustments to the state unemployment insurance tax rate, and the transfer of student internship administration to the Department of Labor.

Significant amendments include allowing the Department of Labor to approve employment certificates for children residing outside of Nebraska, replacing the previous requirement that only children from adjoining states could be considered. The bill also modifies the definition of "state unemployment insurance tax" to include contributions to the Business Innovation Cash Fund and streamlines the process for age and schooling certificates by removing the triplicate requirement. Furthermore, it establishes a new fund for labor-related programs, enhances the Commissioner of Labor's investigative powers, and outlines the process for contesting labor law violations. The legislation aims to improve the regulatory framework surrounding youth employment, unemployment benefits, and workforce development initiatives in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48-649.01
Final Reading: 29-431, 48-302, 48-303, 48-309, 48-602, 48-622.01, 48-648, 48-649.01, 48-657, 48-1231, 48-1233, 48-1234, 48-1706, 48-2107, 48-2710, 48-2905, 81-406, 81-1201.21, 81-1210.01, 81-1210.02, 81-1210.03, 81-1210.04
Slip Law: 29-431, 48-302, 48-303, 48-309, 48-602, 48-622.01, 48-648, 48-649.01, 48-657, 48-1231, 48-1233, 48-1234, 48-1706, 48-2107, 48-2710, 48-2905, 81-406, 81-1201.21, 81-1210.01, 81-1210.02, 81-1210.03, 81-1210.04