The final rule takes effect December 29, 2008, but State Apprenticeship Agencies have up to an additional two years from that date to implement the changes.

Among key changes, the new rule:

• Adds two methods - competency-based and a hybrid approach - to the traditional, time-based method for an apprentice to obtain journeyworker status;

• Allows for the inclusion of technology-based and distance learning;

• Gives registration agencies the option to issue interim credentials;

• Establishes a 90-day timeframe for registration agencies to process sponsor requests for registering and modifying program;

• Provides for reciprocal approval, for federal purposes, of apprentices, apprenticeship programs, and standards that are registered in other states for all industries and occupations;

• Introduces provisional, one-year approval for newly registered programs;

• Limits a registration agency to a State Apprenticeship Agency; and

• Includes a new section, 29.6, on performance standards to be used to evaluate programs.

All programs currently in effect do not have to be revised as a result of this rule.
In discussing the new rule, DOL personnel said there are several areas where it will be seeking additional policy guidance in the coming months, including: performance standards, electronic media, provisional registration, interim credentials, and competency-based apprenticeship programs.

A short fact sheet, full text of the new rule, press release, and other information on the final rule are available at: http://www.doleta.gov/oa/regulations.cfm. Additionally, DOL has set up a specific email: regs.apprenticeship@dol.gov to answer questions related to the new rule. Questions and answers will be posted to the web page referenced above.