SE Oakland News

State Representative Tom Kuhn has voted against legislation that would mandate an apprenticeship degree for individuals working on state construction projects. In his dissent, Kuhn, representing Troy, expressed concerns that the new requirement could exclude experienced and qualified workers from participating in these projects.

"This change could prevent a 55-year-old welder who has been on the job for 30 years with a credential and certificate from the American Welding Society from working on state projects if they don’t have an apprenticeship, which is absurd," stated Kuhn.

Kuhn further criticized the legislation, stating, "This legislation is fundamentally flawed because it doesn’t take work experience into account, and I don’t think we should discriminate against qualified workers."

The proposed legislation stipulates that all construction, repair, or remodeling projects on state projects must be carried out by individuals who have completed or enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program. This requirement could potentially impact skilled professionals such as AWS certified welders, ASSE certified plumbers, and HVAC technicians with associate degrees, as these roles do not traditionally necessitate an apprenticeship.

Despite Kuhn's objections, House Bill 5516 received approval from the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government and is now set to proceed to the full House for further consideration.