American Apprenticeship Act

The American Apprenticeship Act provides federal grants to states to fund pre-apprenticeship programs that prepare individuals for qualified apprenticeships in underrepresented industries (occupations making up less than 10% of apprenticeship opportunities). States receive competitive grants covering 20-50% of tuition, materials, and related instruction costs for these pre-apprenticeship programs, requiring them to partner with industry and leverage existing workforce funds. The bill specifically targets expanding access for underrepresented groups - including minorities, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those with employment barriers - and mandates states to identify in-demand occupations lacking apprenticeships. It authorizes $15 million annually from 2024-2029 to support these programs while requiring states to report on outcomes and ensure funds supplement, not replace, existing workforce development resources.