AUGUSTA - On Monday, August 8, two key bills that support workforce development, particularly within the renewable energy industry, will go into effect. Both bill were sponsored by Rep. Scott Cuddy, D-Winterport.
LD 1969 contributes to Maine's clean energy transition and workforce development by implementing three primary provisions. The new law establishes a certified pre-apprenticeship program, the first of its kind in the state. It requires contractors and subcontractors of renewable energy projects to pay workers the prevailing rate for wages and benefits, unless paying the apprentice rate to those enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program. This applies to projects that are at least two megawatts and receive state assistance. The law further allows the Public Utilities Commission to consider whether or not a bidder for such projects has secured a project labor agreement and whether the entity is employee-owned.
"In light of further investment from the federal government, as well as our own investment in renewable energy here in Maine, this law is perfectly poised to capitalize on the renewable energy construction boom, giving Maine a framework to expand our workforce and address climate change," said Cuddy. "I am proud of the collaboration that went into passing this law and what it will mean for the continued growth of Maine's renewable energy industry, including its ability to provide good jobs at fair rates to folks across the state."
LD 177 appropriates $200,000 to reimburse training programs within the Maine Apprenticeship Program and provides an additional $200,000 for pre-apprenticeship programs.
"Apprenticeship is a time-honored tradition that combines class instruction with real-world work experience. It's at the core of many industries here in Maine," said Cuddy. "Funding these programs means that more kids will have access to good career paths, enabling them to live, work and raise their families in Maine. Making this investment demonstrates not only a commitment to our kids, but also to the future of our state."
Since its creation in 1941, the Maine Apprenticeship Program has seen significant growth. From 2009 to 2019, the number of apprentices who accessed the program nearly tripled, with 2,813 individuals served in 2019. The funding allocation in LD 177 allows the state to keep pace with increased interest in these programs and ensures that apprenticeship sponsors are not left footing the bill for classroom training.
Cuddy, a member of the Labor and Housing Committee and the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee, is serving his second term in the Maine House. He represents the communities of Frankfort, Searsport, Swanville and Winterport.
Contact:
Katie Walsh [Cuddy], c.776-2122