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Bill Summary · LC 213

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 213 revises Montana's apprenticeship program laws, though the specific provisions are not yet publicly available since the bill remains in draft form. Based on its status as of late February 2025, the legislation is still being finalized and has not been formally introduced for legislative consideration. Once completed, it will modify existing statutory frameworks governing apprenticeship requirements, standards, or administration in Montana.

Why is this important

Apprenticeship programs are critical workforce development pathways that provide alternatives to traditional four-year college education while addressing skilled labor shortages in trades. Revisions to apprenticeship laws can affect thousands of workers, employers, and training providers by changing eligibility requirements, wage standards, program oversight, or funding mechanisms. Montana's construction, manufacturing, and service sectors rely significantly on apprenticeship pipelines to fill positions.

Potential points of contention

  • Wage and hour standards — Changes to apprentice minimum wages or compensation structures could create friction between labor advocates (seeking fair wages) and employers (concerned about training costs)
  • Program oversight and accountability — Revisions to state oversight mechanisms, reporting requirements, or quality standards may shift regulatory burden between state agencies and private training providers
  • Eligibility and access requirements — Modifications to entry requirements, prior education standards, or credential recognition could affect which populations can participate in apprenticeships

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

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