Contractors - As enacted, encourages licensed contractors and subcontractors who enter into state construction contracts to employ apprentices from certified and registered apprenticeship programs. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 3; Title 12, Chapter 4; Title 50, Chapter 11; Title 62, Chapter 6 and Title 66, Chapter 34.

HB 965 encourages licensed contractors and subcontractors working on Tennessee state construction projects valued at $1 million or more to hire apprentices from certified programs. It requires state agencies to include a question in requests for proposals asking whether contractors will employ such apprentices. The bill amends Tennessee law to promote apprenticeship participation in state construction projects, effective November 1, 2026. This applies directly to contractors on large state construction contracts and state agencies managing those projects.