Earlier this month, PHCC joined with the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO); the Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders, and Service Techs (United Association, or UA); and Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) to celebrate the passage of the National Apprenticeship Act (NAA) in the U.S. House of Representatives.

This is the first reauthorization of the NAA since its inception in 1937. The bill includes:

• $3.9 billion to expand apprenticeship;
• Expansion of pre-apprenticeship, youth apprenticeship, and secondary school programs to engage more youth and get them interested in careers in the skilled trades;
• Interagency cooperation between the Departments of Education and Labor; and
• Grants for programs targeting individuals in underserved communities.

The legislation awaits next steps in the Senate. With the Senate expected to take up COVID relief next week, followed by the FY2022 budget, a comprehensive infrastructure package, and even a potential Supreme Court nomination in early summer with Justice Breyer’s rumored retirement, it is difficult to gauge the timeline of when the Senate will hold hearings on NAA reauthorization. Stay tuned!

Check out the PHCC/IAPMO/UA/PMI joint press release and the NAA Reauthorization summary and bill text.

• Author Details

Mark Valentini

Director of Legislative Affairs , PHCC-National Association

Mark Valentini is the Director of Legislative Affairs for PHCC—National Association. A seasoned professional with more than 20 years of experience on Capitol Hill and with several national trade associations, Valentini applies his expertise in public policy, workforce and training, and insurance and tax matters to advocate on behalf of all PHCC members.