On February 26, Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample gave in person testimony on behalf of Karrington Anderson before the Finance Committee in support of SB 143 – Public Works Contracts – Apprenticeship Requirements (Maryland Workforce Apprenticeship Utilization Act) with amendments.
This bill would establish apprenticeship utilization requirements for contractors and subcontractors on covered public works projects. Beginning January 1, 2027, the bill requires that 20% of total labor hours on a covered project be performed by qualified apprentices or journeyworkers. The bill also directs the Maryland Department of Labor to adopt implementing regulations.
MACo supports the goal of establishing apprenticeship utilization requirements on certain public works projects, but requests an amendment to ensure stability and predictability for local governments.
Registered apprenticeship programs are a proven workforce development tool that strengthen the skilled trades pipeline and expand career opportunities. However, while the bill sets an initial 20% labor hour requirement, it also authorizes the Maryland Department of Labor to adjust that percentage annually through regulation. Counties seek to retain the 20% standard in statute to provide clarity for project planning, safeguard competitive bidding, and prevent future administrative increases from driving up infrastructure costs.
Public works projects are typically awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. If
apprenticeship requirements become more stringent or unpredictable over time, the number of bidders and offerors may decline, particularly in smaller or rural jurisdictions where the pool of available apprenticeship program participants may be limited. Reduced competition can drive up costs for county-funded infrastructure, placing additional strain on already tight local budgets.
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