Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Workforce Apprenticeships topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Guam committee hears DOL rules to formalize apprenticeship program, fund audits with 2.5% fee
Summary
The Committee on Economic Investment heard testimony supporting adoption of Department of Labor rules that codify the Guam Registered Apprenticeship Program (GRAP). GDOL and senators debated program reach, concentrated beneficiaries, and use of a 2.5% processing fee to hire auditors and prevent fraud.
The Guam Legislature's committee considered rules that would formally adopt Department of Labor regulations for the Guam Registered Apprenticeship Program and establish a 2.5% processing fee to support administration and oversight.
Director Cecira Amente de Delasola of the Guam Department of Labor told the panel GDOL "is in full support of the passage of the GRAP rules and regs," noting the agency completed required public hearings and reviews and that the program makes eligible businesses entitled to a tax credit equal to 50% of eligible training costs. The chairwoman read a BBMR fiscal note saying the proposed 2.5% processing fee would be calculated on 50% of eligible training costs and produce an estimated $208,000 annually in fee revenue.
Senators pressed GDOL on who benefits and how the agency prevents abuse. Senator Chris Barnett pointed to publicly available FY2024 numbers showing large allocations to a handful of firms and said the distribution "might not pass the smell test" for some constituents; GDOL replied that many large cohorts represent multi‑branch corporations and that apprentices typically graduate after two to three years, which reduces concentration over time. The director said GDOL audits expense packages line‑by‑line and expects to add staff paid from the 2.5% fee to strengthen verification and casework.
Committee members also asked about verification processes, residency forms, wage records, GEDA clearance and outreach to small businesses. GDOL described a centralized packet, accounting templates on its website and individualized technical assistance to reduce barriers to participation. The agency said demand‑occupation lists used to determine eligible apprenticeships are updated annually, and it works from the federal Office of Apprenticeship list to select positions "in demand" on Guam.
No formal vote was taken. The committee kept the record open for written testimony and scheduled a markup session to consider amendments and technical clarifications before placement on a future session agenda.
