Third Way’s Statement on the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020

WASHINGTON — Third Way is thrilled to see the House of Representatives pass the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020. In advance of the vote, Third Way Senior Vice President Gabe Horwitz sent the following letter to Chairman Bobby Scott:

November 19, 2020

The Honorable Bobby Scott
House Committee on Education and Labor
2176 Rayburn HOB
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Chairman Scott,

"We are pleased to see that the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 is receiving a vote this week on the House floor. With millions of Americans out of work due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is vital that policymakers work toward an inclusive economic recovery. That’s why we encourage House lawmakers to pass the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, which would provide a much-needed revamp of the nation’s registered apprenticeship system. Apprenticeships can play a key role in our economic recovery and help people regain their footing in the job market.

"Through your leadership, the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 would take important steps to bolster apprenticeships across the country. It would broaden economic opportunity by expanding apprenticeships to women, people of color, and people facing barriers to employment. The legislation would help small and medium-sized businesses create apprenticeship programs. Further, it would modernize our nation’s apprenticeship system by expanding apprenticeships in growing fields like information technology, advanced manufacturing, and health care.

"The bill would also expand apprenticeships in part by relying on intermediaries, or apprenticeship hubs, which would bring together employers, education providers, unions, and other organizations in each state that will work in concert to expand apprenticeships. This is an approach Third Way has long advocated for, and we’re thrilled that it’s a key part of this legislation.

"Through the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020, this country can promote apprenticeships as a key tool in our economic recovery and ensure everyone has pathways to in-demand, good-paying careers. We thank you, Chairwoman Susan Davis, and House Education and Labor Committee Democrats for their leadership on this legislation and urge Members to support it."