(1) For any existing active registered apprenticeship programs, or when a new program gains approval, the apprenticeship council must establish an economic or industry sector-based platform.

(2) The economic or industry sector-based platforms may be in the following areas: Building trades, manufacturing and engineering, health care and behavioral health, education and early learning, information and communications technology, biotechnology and life sciences, hospitality, and maritime. Any platform established under this section must have an equal number of employer and employee organization representatives. All platforms established under this section must:

(a) Promote collaboration within their economic or industry sector;

(b) Periodically review the required classroom and on-the-job training standards for apprenticeship programs within their economic or industry sector;

(c) Collaborate with any relevant centers of excellence in RCW 28B.50.902; and

(d) Review applications for new apprenticeship programs in the platform's economic or industry sector and make recommendations on the approval or rejection of the applications, or suggested modifications to the applicant apprenticeship programs, to the apprenticeship council.

(3) The department of labor and industries must assign an industry liaison to support each platform.

(4) The platform must report at least annually to the apprenticeship council on the following within their economic or industry sector:

(a) Participation in existing approved apprenticeship programs;

(b) Progress in developing new apprenticeship programs; and

(c) Any review of required classroom and on-the-job training standards.

(5) The department must consult with the United States department of labor about opportunities for Washington state employers to participate in apprenticeship programs, and to pursue federal grants on behalf of state registered apprentices and apprenticeship programs.

Intent—2022 c 156: "Washington state has maintained a robust registered apprenticeship system that has created tens of thousands of high-skill, high-wage careers in traditional apprenticeship programs that are financially stable and jointly managed to ensure future generations of apprentices for high demand occupations. The earn while you learn apprenticeship model opens opportunities to diverse groups and communities that have not been able to access traditional higher education and traditional apprenticeship programs in the past. The legislature recognizes that the COVID-19 pandemic has also created a significant dislocation and disruption of our workforce that can be repaired in part by reconnecting workers with innovative apprenticeships that lead to new career pathways. The legislature intends to encourage and foster new apprenticeship opportunities through programs sponsored by public and private entities. It is the intent of the legislature that apprenticeship programs seeking state registration receive prompt consideration with minimum delay. To achieve the goals of rebuilding a robust postpandemic workforce and undertaking active efforts to provide equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in apprenticeship programs will take sustained effort and support." [ 2022 c 156 s 1.]

Effective date—2022 c 156 s 2: "Section 2 of this act takes effect July 1, 2023." [ 2022 c 156 s 12.]