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Bill

SB 431

Registered Apprenticeship Investments for a Stronger Economy (RAISE) Act

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Malcolm Augustine and 10 co-sponsors

Maryland enacts the RAISE Act to expand registered apprenticeship programs, creating earn-while-you-learn workforce pathways to address labor market skills gaps and economic development.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 2
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Bill Summary · SB 431

Legislative bill overview

SB 431, the RAISE Act, is Maryland legislation that has been enacted into law (Chapter 2) to expand and strengthen registered apprenticeship programs in the state. The bill aims to increase investment in apprenticeships as a workforce development strategy to build economic capacity and provide alternative pathways to career advancement beyond traditional four-year degrees.

Why is this important

Apprenticeships address skills gaps in the labor market while providing workers with earn-while-you-learn opportunities and reducing student debt burdens. For employers, registered apprenticeships create pipelines of trained workers in high-demand fields like construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. This legislation signals Maryland's commitment to workforce development during a period of significant labor market transition.

Potential points of contention

  • Program design and funding specifics: The bill's actual funding mechanisms, which industries receive priority, and administrative oversight details would determine real-world effectiveness and whether resources are distributed equitably across regions
  • Employer participation rates: Success depends on voluntary business engagement; without sufficient employer buy-in and incentives, apprenticeship slots may remain limited in practice
  • Balance with higher education: Some may argue increased apprenticeship investment could divert resources from traditional educational pathways, potentially creating equity concerns if programs aren't equally accessible to all communities

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

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