US DOL Issues Final Rule Removing Affirmative Action Mandates for Registered Apprenticeships

The US Department of Labor filed a final rule to rescind affirmative action requirements for federally registered apprenticeship program sponsors, taking effect on January 5. The regulation revamps Part 30 rules, which previously mandated that program sponsors designate an individual to manage equal employment opportunity obligations, conduct antiharassment training, and post equal opportunity pledges. For sponsors with five or more apprentices, the requirement to analyze apprentice demographic data by race, sex, and ethnicity has also been removed. According to the DOL, the change is intended to replace complex nondiscrimination rules with a more straightforward approach and lower administrative burdens for participating employers across industries, including construction.

Key takeaways

• The US Department of Labor issued a final rule taking effect January 5 to rescind affirmative action requirements for Registered Apprenticeship sponsors.
• The regulation eliminates Part 30 requirements to designate an EEO manager, deliver antiharassment training, and display equal opportunity pledges.
• Sponsors with five or more apprentices are no longer required to analyze demographic data regarding race, sex, and ethnicity.
• The DOL stated the revision aims to lower administrative compliance burdens and encourage broader employer participation in apprenticeship programs.