S.2028 - Supporting Apprenticeship Colleges Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2028, the Supporting Apprenticeship Colleges Act of 2025, aims to authorize funding for institutions of higher education that sponsor construction and manufacturing-oriented registered apprenticeship programs. The bill proposes two grant programs: one for community outreach and another for student support through expanded academic advising. The bill authorizes $5,000,000 annually for each grant program from 2026 through 2030.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would increase enrollment and support services at apprenticeship colleges. This would lead to a larger, more skilled workforce in the construction and manufacturing sectors. The outreach programs would target underrepresented populations and rural areas, potentially diversifying the workforce.
Potential Benefits
- Increased enrollment in construction and manufacturing apprenticeship programs.
- Enhanced support services for students, leading to higher retention and completion rates.
- Targeted outreach to underrepresented populations, promoting social equity.
- Strengthened partnerships between educational institutions and local businesses.
- A more skilled workforce, boosting economic growth in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
Potential Disadvantages
- The authorized funding of $5,000,000 per grant program per year may be insufficient to significantly impact all eligible institutions.
- The grant application process could be burdensome for smaller institutions with limited administrative capacity.
- There is a risk that the focus on construction and manufacturing may neglect other important apprenticeship sectors.
- The effectiveness of the outreach programs depends on the quality and implementation of the outreach strategies.
- The bill does not address potential challenges related to the availability of apprenticeship opportunities or employer participation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, which includes supporting education and workforce development programs. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).