Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) expressed her concerns about the Department of Labor's (DOL) proposed rulemaking on registered apprenticeship regulations. Foxx criticized the DOL for succumbing to pressure from leftist mobs and implementing woke policies.

Foxx stated, "It’s no secret that DOL has been trained like a dog to sit, shake, and roll over on command by leftist mobs. Look no further than the Department’s 779-page notice of proposed rulemaking that’s chock full of pandering buzzwords like ‘equity’ and ‘inclusion’ – telltale signs that meaningful career pathways for Americans are about to be forcefully drowned in even more woke bureaucracy."

She further criticized the proposed rule, suggesting that it would make the already dysfunctional registered apprenticeship system even less workable and relevant to the needs of workers and employers.

The proposed rule has several implications, including increased mandates and paperwork on employers, which could discourage them from investing time and resources into building apprenticeship programs. Foxx also highlighted the elimination of the competency-based model, which currently exists, and the imposition of minimum standards for on-the-job learning and related instruction. She argued that the economy is shifting towards demonstrated skills and competencies, but the DOL is pushing the apprenticeship system in the opposite direction.

Another concern raised by Foxx is the increased control given to federal bureaucrats over the eligibility of occupations to become registered apprenticeships. This could potentially hinder the development of new and innovative programs.

Additionally, the proposed rule introduces diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandates and requirements into the apprenticeship system. Foxx expressed her apprehension about infusing DEI into the system, as it may further complicate and hinder the effectiveness of apprenticeship programs.

Overall, Foxx emphasized her skepticism about the DOL's proposed rulemaking, suggesting that it could undermine the functionality and relevance of the registered apprenticeship system. She called for a more thoughtful approach that aligns with the needs of workers and employers.

In conclusion, Chairwoman Foxx's concerns about the DOL's proposed rulemaking on registered apprenticeship regulations highlight the potential negative impact on the functionality and relevance of the system. She criticized the inclusion of woke buzzwords, increased mandates and paperwork on employers, the elimination of the competency-based model, and the infusion of DEI mandates. Foxx urged for a more thoughtful approach that considers the needs of workers and employers.

Click this link to access more information: https://edworkforce.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409907