Apprenticeship Rules Drop Affirmative Action Mandates, Keep Antidiscrimination Requirements
Published Date: 11/6/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting January 5, 2027, apprenticeship programs must follow simpler, clearer rules to stop illegal discrimination. The Department of Labor is dropping tough affirmative action demands but making sure all sponsors still play fair under federal and state laws. This change helps programs focus on fairness without extra red tape, making it easier and fairer for everyone involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
No More Mandatory Affirmative Action
If you run a Registered Apprenticeship program, starting January 5, 2027 you will no longer be required to carry out the part 30 affirmative action obligations that applied to programs enrolling five or more apprentices. This change removes requirements such as conducting utilization analyses and setting numerical hiring goals based on race, sex, and ethnicity.
Estimated $1B Compliance Savings Over 10 Years
The Department estimates that, over a 10-year period, Registered Apprenticeship stakeholders will save more than $1 billion in costs related to compliance with the prior part 30 regulation because the final rule removes burdensome requirements. The change is effective January 5, 2027 and is intended to reduce administrative costs and support program growth.
Fewer EEO Administrative Duties for Sponsors
Starting January 5, 2027, Registered Apprenticeship sponsors are relieved of several administrative EEO duties previously required by part 30. The final rule removes mandates such as designating an individual to manage EEO policy, conducting anti-harassment training, posting an equal opportunity pledge, and providing written notice to apprentices about how to file discrimination complaints.
Must Follow Federal and State Anti-Discrimination Laws
Beginning January 5, 2027, all Registered Apprenticeship program sponsors must comply with all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations prohibiting illegal discrimination. The final rule also clarifies the appropriate forums and processes for apprentices to raise and seek remediation of discrimination-related issues.
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