To amend the Small Business Act to include requirements relating to apprenticeship program assistance for small business development centers, and for other purposes.

Summary of HR 9052 (119th Congress)

Purpose and intent

HR 9052 would amend the Small Business Act to strengthen and expand apprenticeship program assistance tied to Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs). The bill aims to enhance workforce development and small business capacity by linking apprenticeship opportunities and related supports to SBDC services and funding. The core goal is to promote employer-led apprenticeships as a pathway for small businesses to develop skilled talent, improve productivity, and increase the success rate of small enterprise growth.

Key provisions and changes

• Apprenticeship program assistance integrated with SBDCs. The bill requires or authorizes the inclusion of apprenticeship-related activities as part of the assistance programs administered through SBDCs. This may cover technical support, guidance, and resources to help small businesses design, implement, and scale apprenticeship programs.

• Alignment with Small Business Act authorities. The proposal reorients or expands the authorities under the Small Business Act to explicitly address apprenticeship program services as a component of federal small business assistance.

• Support for program development and implementation. Provisions are expected to address steps for developing apprenticeship initiatives, including outreach, planning assistance, and technical support to employers participating in apprenticeship models.

• Potential funding and administration. While specific funding levels are not provided in the brief action history, the bill would likely authorize appropriations or reallocations to support apprenticeship activities through SBDCs, and designate responsibility for administration and oversight to relevant Small Business Administration (SBA) offices and SBDC networks.

• Reporting and accountability. The measure may include reporting requirements to track the adoption and outcomes of apprenticeship programs among small businesses, including metrics such as placements, retention, and impact on business growth.

Who would be affected

• Small businesses seeking growth support. Small firms that work with SBDCs could access new or enhanced services related to apprenticeships, including planning and implementation assistance.

• SBDCs and their networks. SBDCs would be the primary delivery channel for the apprenticeship assistance under the act, potentially expanding their scope of services and requiring capacity-building within centers.

• Employers and workers participating in apprenticeships. Individuals entering apprenticeship programs may benefit from structured pathways to skills development and employment, while employers gain access to guidance and resources.

• Federal program administration entities. SBA and related offices administering SBDCs would implement the revised authorities, oversight, and any new reporting requirements.

Procedural and timeline aspects

• Introduction and referral. Introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on Small Business on May 29, 2026.

• Next steps in the legislative process. The bill would need committee consideration, potential amendments, and then floor action in the House. If advanced, it could move to the Senate for consideration. Final passage would require concurrence in both chambers and presidential signature.

Notes

• The available summary is based on the bill’s title and sponsors and the stated aim to amend the Small Business Act to include apprenticeship program assistance within SBDC activities. Specific dollar amounts, detailed program design, eligibility criteria, and performance metrics would be clarified in the full text of the bill and any subsequent amendments during committee deliberations.