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HB 965

Contractors - As enacted, encourages licensed contractors and subcontractors who enter into state construction contracts to employ apprentices from certified and registered apprenticeship programs. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 3; Title 12, Chapter 4; Title 50, Chapter 11; Title 62, Chapter 6 and Title 66, Chapter 34.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by David Hawk

Tennessee law now encourages state construction contractors to hire apprentices from certified programs, expanding skilled workforce development through public procurement incentives.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 175
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Bill Summary · HB 965

Legislative bill overview

HB 965 encourages licensed contractors and subcontractors working on state construction contracts to hire apprentices from certified and registered apprenticeship programs. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee code covering public contracts, construction, and related regulations to incentivize this practice.

Why is this important

This legislation aims to develop Tennessee's skilled workforce pipeline by creating incentives for apprenticeship program participation in publicly-funded construction projects. It addresses both labor shortages in the construction industry and provides structured career pathways for workers while potentially reducing long-term labor costs for the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Incentive structure unclear: The bill "encourages" participation but specific financial incentives, penalties for non-compliance, or contract preference mechanisms are not detailed in this summary, raising questions about enforceability and effectiveness
  • Cost implications: State contractors may argue that apprenticeship requirements increase labor costs, potentially raising expenses for public construction projects
  • Program capacity concerns: Certified apprenticeship programs may lack sufficient capacity to supply qualified apprentices to meet demand across all state construction contracts, creating implementation challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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