Eugene Scalia, President Trump’s choice for U.S. labor secretary, told a Senate committee on Thursday that he is aware of concerns raised about so-called industry-recognized apprenticeship programs (IRAPs) and that he would — much like with other issues addressed at the hearing — give it a closer look, if confirmed.
The topic of apprenticeships, both IRAPs and traditional registered apprenticeships, were addressed among myriad issues — from workplace safety and minimum wage, to pensions and LGBTQ rights — during Scalia’s nomination hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) was the first to ask him about IRAPs. She noted that some employers say the process to federally approve registered apprenticeships is burdensome and time-consuming, while some unions have expressed concerns about the program rigor and safety under IRAPs. She noted that unions in her state’s construction industry, in particular, are opposed to IRAPs.