Public Works Contracts - Apprenticeship Requirements (Maryland Workforce Apprenticeship Utilization Act)

SB 688 (Maryland Workforce Apprenticeship Utilization Act) requires contractors and subcontractors working on Maryland public works projects to employ a specific percentage of qualified apprentices or journeyworkers, replacing previous options to pay apprenticeship programs instead of hiring. It expands these requirements to include projects involving the University System of Maryland and Baltimore City Community College. The bill directs the Secretary of Labor to set annual apprenticeship percentage targets and allows limited waivers for specific circumstances. This changes existing law to strengthen on-the-job training opportunities in public construction projects.