U.S. DOL Proposes New Rules for Apprenticeships

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued a proposal to extend the diversity protections for apprenticeship programs to include equal employment opportunity (EEO) standards for genetic information, sexual orientation, individuals with disabilities, and individuals over 40.
Under this rule, sponsors or employers must designate an EEO officer, disseminate information and provide training regarding these changes, and conduct outreach with organizations that serve women, minorities and individuals with disabilities.
There are also more outreach requirements for sponsors with five or more apprentices.
DOL estimates that this rule will result in compliance costs of approximately $800 a year for small entities.
Comments are due to DOL by January 5, 2016.

• Read and Comment on the proposed rule.
• News release, FAQs, and more information.