HB1875 Summary

• Creates the "Earn and Learn Act" as Arkansas Code Title 17, Chapter 4, establishing a framework for apprenticeships to satisfy occupational licensing requirements.

• Requires licensing entities to grant licenses to apprenticeship completers who pass required examinations, pay applicable fees, have no disqualifying criminal record, and meet other non-training requirements.

• Limits examination passing scores and licensing fees for apprentices to those required for standard licensing processes; exempts applicants from exams and fees if not required for standard licensing.

• Excludes from the Act: licensing entities without established apprenticeship programs, licenses requiring a bachelor's degree or higher, and licenses issued by the State Board of Barber Examiners or Department of Health for cosmetology.

• Requires all licensing entities to promulgate implementation rules by January 1, 2022, with the Act becoming effective January 1, 2022.