Labor & Employment (Apprenticeships)

HB 3783 creates a new "Endorsed Plumbing Apprentice" status for individuals who pass the journeyman plumber exam but haven't yet completed the required one year of verifiable experience. It directly affects plumbing apprentices who meet specific eligibility criteria: being at least 17 years old, registered as an apprentice, completing an approved education program with 70%+ grades, and submitting required documentation. The key mechanism allows these apprentices to work toward their full journeyman license without retaking the exam, provided they complete the experience requirement within three years of passing the exam and are at least 18. The bill becomes effective November 1, 2026, streamlining the path to licensure for qualified apprentices.

SB 1480 requires all Oklahoma technology center school districts to appoint an apprenticeship coordinator. These coordinators must build employer relationships, help students access apprenticeships, and work with schools that offer apprenticeships under the AIM Act. The bill also mandates that schools serving technology centers must collaborate with these coordinators to improve student participation in apprenticeship programs. This directly affects technology center districts, their partner schools, and high school students seeking work-based learning opportunities.

HB 2212 establishes Oklahoma's Registered Apprenticeship Program (ORAP), allowing apprentices in federally recognized programs to take general education courses at public community colleges toward an associate degree. It authorizes an income tax credit for employers who hire apprentices and requires the Oklahoma Workforce Commission to collect workforce data to track program outcomes. The bill sets eligibility for apprentices (including journeyworkers with federal certificates) and mandates completion of 15 credit hours within six years. This directly affects apprentices, community colleges, and employers participating in registered apprenticeships statewide.