The proposed bill establishes the Nebraska Registered Apprenticeship Act, which aims to create a structured framework for apprenticeship programs in the state. It defines key terms such as "apprentice," "apprenticeable occupation," and "apprenticeship agreement," and establishes the Nebraska Office of Registered Apprenticeship within the Department of Labor. This office will serve as the state apprenticeship agency, responsible for registering apprenticeship programs, setting standards, and resolving disputes related to apprenticeship agreements. Additionally, the bill outlines the creation of the Nebraska Apprenticeship Council, which will advise the office and promote community outreach regarding apprenticeship benefits.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 48-649.01 of the Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025, by changing the combined tax rate under the Employment Security Law. Specifically, it modifies the allocation of the combined tax rate so that not less than fifty percent (in place of the previous eighty percent) will equal the contribution rate, while not more than fifty percent (replacing the previous twenty percent) will equal the state unemployment insurance tax rate. The bill also repeals the original section 48-649.01, indicating a comprehensive update to the tax rate provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48-649.01