AZ SB1551

Requires contractors and subcontractors on public works contracts to employ apprentices for at least 10 percent of total labor hours for each apprenticed craft or type of work when more than three workers are employed.

Allows the Industrial Commission of Arizona and Department of Economic Security to adopt rules beginning January 1, 2023 to increase the required apprentice labor percentage.

Permits public bodies to request modification or waiver of apprentice hour requirements for good cause, with the Commission required to decide within 15 days; allows appeals within 10 days.

Defines "good cause" to include unavailable apprentices in the jurisdiction, need for uniquely complex or hazardous work requiring journeyman expertise, or denial of apprentice requests within five business days.

Requires contractors and subcontractors to enter into apprenticeship agreements for all apprentices used on public works contracts; apprentices who graduate are treated as apprentices for contract purposes but as journeymen for wage payment purposes.