AZ SB1753

Contractors and subcontractors on public works contracts employing more than three workers must use apprentices for at least 10 percent of total labor hours for each apprenticed craft or type of work.

The Industrial Commission of Arizona may collaborate with the Department of Economic Security beginning January 1, 2022 to adopt rules increasing the required percentage of apprentice labor hours.

Apprentices who graduate from an apprenticeship program while employed on a public works contract are deemed apprentices for contract purposes but journeymen for wage payment purposes.

Contractors or subcontractors may request modifications or waivers from the Industrial Commission for good cause, with the Commission required to decide within 15 days; decisions may be appealed within 10 days.

"Good cause" includes: no available apprentices in the jurisdiction, need for uniquely complex or hazardous work requiring journeyman expertise, or denial of apprentice requests that were not approved within five business days.