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Bill

HB 501

Registered Apprenticeship Investments for a Stronger Economy (RAISE) Act

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen and 18 co-sponsors

Maryland bill expands registered apprenticeships through targeted investments to build skilled workforce pipeline and boost state economic competitiveness.

Hearing 2/27 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 501

Legislative bill overview

HB 501, the Registered Apprenticeship Investments for a Stronger Economy (RAISE) Act, aims to expand and strengthen registered apprenticeship programs in Maryland. The bill appears designed to increase funding, support, or regulatory frameworks for apprenticeships as career pathways. Specific provisions are not detailed in the available action items, but the bipartisan sponsorship suggests focus on workforce development.

Why is this important

Apprenticeships address Maryland's skilled labor shortage while providing workers with earn-while-you-learn opportunities that reduce student debt compared to traditional four-year degrees. The bill targets economic competitiveness by developing pipelines in high-demand trades and technical fields. Investment in apprenticeships can strengthen regional economies and reduce unemployment among young adults seeking alternatives to college.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms: Questions about whether state funds, employer contributions, or worker deductions finance apprenticeship expansion and who bears the financial burden
  • Wage and benefit standards: Disagreement over minimum wages, benefits, and worker protections during apprenticeship periods, particularly regarding fair compensation during training
  • Program oversight and quality: Concerns about maintaining apprenticeship quality, completion rates, and actual job placement outcomes versus program proliferation without accountability measures

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

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