A new report from Urban Institute explores how state-level policies shape the effectiveness and quality of Registered Apprenticeship Programs in the United States. Through interviews with the Office of Apprenticeship and four state apprenticeship agencies, the research examines policies on supervision, hiring, recordkeeping, wages, and Equal Employment Opportunity.
While states align on recordkeeping and wage progression, policy differences in supervision and implementation present challenges to employers seeking regulatory consistency. The report includes recommendations to align policies, improve transparency, and ensure quality in apprenticeship programs—emphasizing the need for clear guidance, consistent wage standards and requirements, and transparent monitoring to support employer adoption and apprenticeship opportunities across states.