U.S. Sen. Todd Young and U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran are backing legislation designed to encourage more businesses to create and expand apprenticeship programs by offering a federal tax credit to participating employers. The Workforce Apprenticeship Growth and Education Support, or WAGES, Act would establish a refundable payroll tax credit for employers that maintain or participate in a Registered Apprenticeship Program.

Supporting Workforce Development

The proposed credit would help offset wages paid to apprentices and mentors, as well as other costs associated with operating apprenticeship programs. According to Young, the bill will make it easier for businesses to invest in high-quality apprenticeship programs, strengthening the workforce and expanding pathways to good-paying careers.

Eligible expenses would include classroom and technical instruction, on-the-job training costs, mentor compensation, apprenticeship program development and maintenance expenses, and certain collective bargaining agreement contributions that support registered apprenticeship programs. The legislation has been introduced in Congress but has not yet advanced to a vote.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.